University of Massachusetts Lowell
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is a public research university in Massachusetts, part of the UMass system, offering genuine research standing alongside a moderate published CGPA floor within reach of the Boston job market.
Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.75
Tuition / yr
$20k–$26k
Type
Public research university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Lowell, Massachusetts, United States |
| Type | Public research university |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Featured in QS/THE global rankings outside the top 800; part of the broader University of Massachusetts research university system. |
| Notable feature | Part of the UMass system; proximity to the Boston job market |
| Official website | uml.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.75
- Requirement varies somewhat by department, particularly in engineering
- Full application reviewed alongside the CGPA floor
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $20k–$26k per year |
| Living costs (Lowell, MA) | Below Boston, though still relatively high for New England |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Engineering
- Business Administration
- Health Sciences
- Computer Science
- Sciences graduate programmes
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Sound Recording Technology
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Graduate assistantships available, particularly in engineering and science departments
- International merit scholarships reviewed at time of admission
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
UMass Lowell offers proximity to Boston’s job market at a lower cost of living than the city itself, combined with genuine UMass-system research credibility, a meaningful advantage over similarly priced universities without research standing.
Campus Life
Lowell, Massachusetts sits within reach of Boston’s job market while offering lower living costs than the city itself.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: uml.edu
Compare University of Massachusetts Lowell against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.