Admissions Standards
All freshman applicants are evaluated using standards determined by both the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education and the University.
Entering freshmen in fall 2012 had an average GPA 3.26 and an average combined Critical Reading and Math SAT score of 1127*.
Admissions counselors and policy makers are sensitive to the factors that may result in accomplished students having a lower-than-expected GPA or SAT score. The applications of students who don’t meet the standards, but for whom UMass Lowell otherwise seems like a good match, are reviewed individually.
*Along with all other public universities and colleges in the Massachusetts system, UMass Lowell is not using the Writing Score.
High School Course Requirements
In order to fulfill minimum requirements, you should have completed the following coursework at the college preparatory level or higher during high school:
- Four years of English
- Two years of social studies (including one year of U.S. history)
- Three years of mathematics
- Two years of foreign language (in a single language)
- Three years of science (two with a lab)
- Two years of electives
International Applicants
Alternative Admissions Programs
At UMass Lowell, there are several special entrance programs that provide non-traditional admissions pathways to students who do not meet the standard admissions requirements.
Connections Program
Students take classes at Middlesex Community College in order to gain the academic standing needed to be assured admission and a successful start at the University.
More information
Mass Transfer
Navitas UMass Lowell
Navitas is an independently administered pathway to admission for international students who do not meet the standard admissions requirements.
More information