Salem State University
At Salem State University — the Commonwealth’s Civic Engagement University — you’ll learn by doing, find your people and graduate ready to lead in your career and community.
Academics: With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, professors know your name and are personally invested in your success. Choose from 33 majors, 100+ concentrations and 80+ minors. Not sure what to study? Our exploratory major helps match your strengths and interests to programs that prepare you for future success.
Affordability: Free or reduced tuition for many Massachusetts students, a tuition break for New England students and automatic savings for out-of-state students make Salem State accessible.
Belonging: Recognized as a Hispanic and minority-serving institution, Salem State is committed to equity, access and culturally responsive support. We also earned 4.5/5 stars from Campus Pride Index for LGBTQ+ inclusion, including a policy that lets you use your chosen name, inclusive housing and active student support.
Careers: From day one, you have access to 600+ employers on campus each year, personalized advising, resume and interview prep, and a 70,000+ alumni network that opens doors.
Campus life: Live where things are happening with 5 residence halls, 65+ clubs, NCAA Division III athletics, intramurals, Greek life, and arts events.
Location: The coastal city of Salem blends history, arts and Halloween energy, all close to Boston.
Discover the Salem State Difference.
Academic programs
- Science
- Technology
- Liberal Arts
- Business
- Education
- Nursing
- Communication
- Music
- Art & Design
- Economics
- Finance/Accounting
- Government/Political Science
- Health Science
- Performing Arts
- Social Science
- Visual Arts
- Psychology
- Computer Science
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- Greek Life
- Intramural/Club Sports
- LGBTQIA Services
- Military/Veteran Services
- Night Class Offerings
- On-Campus Housing
- ROTC Program
- Study Abroad
- Undergraduate Research
- Veteran Fee Waiver
- Distance/online learning
Application information
First-year
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Additional information
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but at Salem State, affordability is real.
- Nearly 50% of students attend tuition-free
- 98% receive financial aid
- $15,547: Average aid package
- $10,502: Average grants and scholarships
- Ranked #23 in the nation for social mobility by U.S. News & World Report
Free Tuition and Fees: Massachusetts students with a family income of $75,000 or less may qualify for full coverage.*
Support for Middle-Income Families: Families between $75,000–$100,000 may qualify for a 50% reduction.*
Regional Savings: New England students qualify for the NEBHE Tuition Break.
Out-of-State Savings: Students from beyond New England automatically receive a $6,000 award.
Undocumented Student Support: Massachusetts high school completers may qualify for in-state tuition and can apply for TheDream.US National Scholarship (up to $33,000 plus stipends for books, housing and transportation).
*Programs subject to state funding and eligibility requirements. Room and board not included.
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The classes have intellectually challenged me, while the community has supported me. That combination has helped foster my individuality, which I know will help me make a difference in this world and share my light with others!