8 Affordable “Hidden Gem” Universities in the Northeast

Selecting a college involves balancing cost and quality. Thankfully, the Northeast hosts numerous universities that offer high-quality education at affordable prices. These eight schools provide diverse programs and a rewarding experience at a remarkingably affordable annual cost.

Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, Massachusetts, has an acceptance rate of 86% and costs $24,564 for in-state and $30,704 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid offered is $7,361, making it a cost-effective choice for many students​1​​2​.


Fitchburg State University, located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, is known for its Undergraduate Nursing programs. It has an acceptance rate of 85% and a total annual cost of $22,320 for in-state and $28,400 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid provided is $6,198​1​​3​.


Framingham State University in Framingham, Massachusetts, offers a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing a more specialized education. With an acceptance rate of 84%, the total annual cost is $24,420 for in-state and $30,500 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid received is $6,870​1​​4​.


Salem State University in Salem, Massachusetts, prides itself on diversity, with nearly 40% of its first-year students being people of color. The university has an 84% acceptance rate and annual costs of $26,265 for in-state and $33,070 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid amount is $7,707​1​​5​.


Westfield State University in Westfield, Massachusetts, founded by Horace Mann in 1839, remains committed to diversity. The acceptance rate is 94%, totaling $23,336 annually for in-state students and $29,416 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid amount is $6,028​1​​6​.


Worcester State University, located in Worcester, Massachusetts, has an acceptance rate of 89% and a total annual cost of $23,154 for in-state and $29,234 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid is $4,001, providing a cost-effective education for many students​.


University of Maine at Augusta has an acceptance rate of 100%. The total annual cost for in-state students is $8,668, while for out-of-state students, it's $12,748. The average financial aid offered is $6,789, significantly reducing many students' financial burdens. With an undergraduate enrollment of 3,902, the university offers a diverse range of over 100 undergraduate programs​.


University of Massachusetts at Lowell is located in Lowell, Massachusetts. This university has an acceptance rate of 73% and a total annual cost of $26,846 for in-state and $35,570 for out-of-state students. The average financial aid provided is $10,714, which can offset the cost of tuition. With an undergraduate enrollment of 14,172, the institution offers various fields of study, providing students diverse academic opportunities​.


Remember that the listed costs are pre-financial aid, meaning actual costs could be lower. It's always best to check with the colleges for the most accurate information.


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