American vs UMass Amherst
How American and UMass Amherst stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| American | UMass Amherst | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 62% | 60% |
| SAT (middle 50%) | 1280-1460 | 1310-1480 |
| Testing policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
| Type | Private | Public |
| Location | DC | MA |
| Sticker price (per year) | $79,000 | $37,122 |
| Average cost after aid | $37,000 | $19,500 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 3 |
- UMass Amherst is harder to get into than American (60% versus 62%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, UMass Amherst is usually the cheaper option ($19,500 versus $37,000 per year on average).
- Both are test-optional, so you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores.
- UMass Amherst asks for more supplemental writing (3 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
American vs UMass Amherst FAQ
Is American or UMass Amherst harder to get into?
UMass Amherst is harder to get into, admitting about 60% of applicants versus 62% at American.
Is American or UMass Amherst cheaper?
After financial aid, UMass Amherst is usually cheaper, about $19,500 per year on average versus $37,000 at American.
See your real chances at American and UMass Amherst.
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