Loading…

UNITED STATES · MEDFORD / SOMERVILLE

Tufts University

private · Founded 1854 · Languages: en

In short

Tufts University, founded in 1854 near Boston, Massachusetts, offers rigorous academic programs across various disciplines with a strong emphasis on civic engagement and a global perspective. The university is notably committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduates, including international students.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1854
Students: 6,791
International students: 835
Acceptance rate: 11%
Tuition (intl): €55–64k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Medford / Somerville, United States

Tufts University is a private research university founded in 1854 near Boston, Massachusetts, known for its distinctive combination of academic rigour, civic engagement, and global outlook. With approximately 12,000 students across undergraduate and graduate/professional schools, Tufts offers exceptional programmes in international relations (Fletcher School), medicine, dental medicine, veterinary medicine, nutrition, engineering, and the liberal arts. It is one of a very small group of universities worldwide that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for every admitted undergraduate, including international students.

Why study here

One of the few universities globally that meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduates regardless of citizenship.
Home to the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy — one of the world's foremost graduate schools of international affairs.
Located five miles from Boston, with easy access to one of America's top science, technology, and policy hubs.
Strong civic engagement culture via the Tisch College of Civic Life, consistently ranked #1 for civic engagement among US universities.
Rigorous liberal arts curriculum across 70+ undergraduate programmes balanced with strong professional and graduate schools.
A campus in Talloires, France, plus study abroad in 10+ countries, providing genuine global experience.

Student life

The Tufts Medford/Somerville campus sits on a hill overlooking the Boston skyline, offering an active collegiate environment within easy reach of the city. Over 300 student organisations span academic, cultural, athletic, and civic interests. Tufts competes in 30 NESCAC varsity sports, 32 club sports, and 10 intramural sports. The Tisch College's active citizenship requirement means volunteer work and community engagement are woven into campus life. A vibrant arts scene includes the Tufts Dance Collective and the Torn Ticket II theatre company. Boston's academic community, museums, professional sports, and cultural events are a 15-minute subway ride away.

Fees

InternationalTuition approx. USD 64,890 per year (2024-25). Total cost of attendance (tuition + fees + room/board) approx. USD 90,000+ per year.

HomeSame tuition rate; Tufts does not differentiate domestic vs. international tuition. Financial aid significantly reduces net cost for eligible students.

LivingRoom and board on campus approx. USD 18,000–22,000 per year. Off-campus in Medford/Somerville: USD 15,000–25,000 per year.

Tufts meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduates. Financial aid packages consist of grants (up to USD 75,000+/year), work-study, and loans. Families earning under USD 60,000/year typically receive aid without loans.

Admissions

Common App or Coalition AppRequired for undergraduate admission

High school transcriptRequired; strong academic record in college-preparatory courses

SAT/ACTTest-optional for most undergraduate programmes (check current policy)

Two teacher recommendationsRequired for undergraduate

Counsellor recommendationRequired for undergraduate

EssaysCommon App essay plus Tufts-specific supplemental essays required

Graduate: Online application feeUSD 85 (waivers available for some programmes)

Graduate: Unofficial transcriptsFrom all institutions; official required upon admission

Graduate: Letters of recommendationOne (Certificate) or three (MS/PhD); candid academic or professional assessment

Graduate: Personal StatementUp to 5 pages / 2,500 words explaining reasons for pursuing the programme

TOEFL iBT90+ recommended (institution code 3901)

IELTS7.0+ recommended

Duolingo English Test120+ (accepted for graduate programmes)

Rankings

QS World University Rankings 2024334

US News & World Report 2025 — National Universities62

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024251

University scholarships

Tufts Need-Based GrantUSD 1,000–75,000+ per year based on demonstrated financial need

Tufts National Merit ScholarshipVaries — awarded to National Merit finalists who designate Tufts

ROTC ScholarshipFull tuition for eligible participants

Graduate fellowshipsVaries by department — tuition remission plus stipend for PhD students in many departments

Accreditation

Tufts University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Engineering programmes (Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, Mechanical) are ABET accredited. Medical and dental programmes hold LCME and CODA accreditations respectively.

For international students

United States

Student visa & funds

International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.

Working while you study

F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.

After you graduate

After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.

English tests

IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+

Main intakes

AugustJanuary

Typical living cost

€1,420/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Tufts University · United States

BA in Anthropology

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Anthropology provides students with the conceptual tools and practical research experience to understand the diverse range of human social experiences. The program explores culture, biology, archaeology, and language, utilizing methods from participant-observation to laboratory analysis. You will investigate topics such as gender, race, capitalism, colonialism, health, human rights, and even the social lives of non-human primates. Graduates are equipped with integrative abilities applicable to various fields including medicine, education, politics, media, activism, market research, and the arts.

Tufts University · United States

BS in Astrophysics

The Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics program at Tufts University offers a flexible curriculum designed to accommodate students with diverse backgrounds, interests, and goals. You will work closely with an academic advisor to tailor your studies to your specific aspirations within the field. The program provides a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, coupled with specialized coursework in astronomy and astrophysics.

Tufts University · United States

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Mechanical Engineering at Tufts University is designed for individuals seeking to conduct independent, innovative research. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers as faculty members at research universities or as researchers in industrial or government research laboratories. Admission is based on educational qualifications, with an expectation of an outstanding academic record in mechanical engineering or a related technical field. The GRE is optional for applicants.

Tufts University · United States

Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

The Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at Tufts University School of Medicine offers a rigorous, hybrid education designed to prepare you as a highly skilled physical therapist. This program combines comprehensive online coursework with essential in-person clinical skills labs. You will graduate in seven semesters, ready to serve diverse populations as a human movement specialist. The program emphasizes evidence-based practice, patient-centered care, and prepares you for the demands of modern healthcare.

Tufts University · United States

MS in Bioengineering

The Master of Science (MS) in Bioengineering at Tufts University is an interdisciplinary program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in core bioengineering principles and specialized knowledge in their chosen track. The program requires a minimum of 30 credits, typically completed through 10 courses with satisfactory grades. Students will engage with a curriculum that includes both a common core and track-specific courses, ensuring a broad understanding of bioengineering while allowing for deep specialization. The program offers six distinct tracks: Bioinformatics, Biomaterials, Biomechanical Systems and Devices, Cell and Bioprocess Engineering, Environmental Biotechnology, and Signals and Systems. Each track is housed within a related engineering department, fostering interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. This structure allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals within the diverse field of bioengineering.

Tufts University · United States

MS in Economics

The Master of Science (MS) in Economics program offers a comprehensive understanding of economic theories and empirical methods, equipping students with the quantitative skills necessary for research-oriented careers. The program provides three distinct tracks to cater to diverse academic and professional goals: 1. **Course-based Track:** An accelerated, eight-course program achievable in one academic year, without a thesis requirement. 2. **Research-based Track with Master's Thesis:** A more in-depth, twelve-course program extending over two academic years, culminating in a master's thesis. 3. **Research-based Track with Experiential Learning:** Also a two-year program, this track integrates practical experience through internships or research assistantships, alongside coursework. All students initially enter the course-based track and have the opportunity to apply for one of the research-based tracks at the end of their first academic year, based on academic performance. Successful applicants to the research-based tracks may need to present a research proposal and secure an advisor. All tracks are STEM-certified, preparing graduates for advanced academic study or professional roles in various sectors.

Scholarships

for United States

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Duke University

Karsh International Scholarship Program

Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.

University of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)

University of Miami Stamps Scholarship

Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.

QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship

Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.

Argonne National Laboratory

Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory

Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).

Boustany Foundation / Harvard Business School

Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship

Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.

Knight-Hennessy Scholars

Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated costs for international students at Tufts University?

For the 2024-25 academic year, tuition is approximately USD 64,890. The total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is estimated to be over USD 90,000 annually. Room and board on campus ranges from USD 18,000 to USD 22,000 per year.

Does Tufts University offer financial aid to international students?

Yes, Tufts University meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted undergraduate students, including international students. Financial aid packages can include grants, work-study, and loans, with grants potentially reaching up to USD 75,000+ per year.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

Recommended scores for English proficiency tests are a TOEFL iBT of 90+, an IELTS of 7.0+, or a Duolingo English Test score of 120+ (for graduate programs). Official scores are required; photocopies are not accepted.

Where is Tufts University located and what is the surrounding area like?

Tufts' main campus is situated in Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, just five miles from Boston and Cambridge. This location provides convenient access to a major hub for science, technology, and policy.

What makes Tufts University unique for international students?

Tufts is distinguished by its commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all undergraduates, regardless of citizenship. It also offers a strong global outlook with programs like the Fletcher School and a campus in Talloires, France.

Last updated 3 July 2026