About

About Salem State University

high acceptance ratehealth sciences focusmasters programs

Salem State University is a public university in Salem, MA, known for its high acceptance rate, health sciences focus, and masters programs. With an acceptance rate of 93%, Salem State is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 863 students each year. Salem State is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1000–1170, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Salem State offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $8,976 per year; the sticker price of $36,054 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Salem State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

93%
Overall Accept Rate
3.00
Typical Admitted GPA
1085
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1000 – 1170 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Salem State University

Essay Strategy
Salem State values students who show a clear sense of purpose, so use your essay to explain how specific programs at Salem State, whether in social work, nursing, or education, connect directly to your goals after graduation.
Essay Strategy
If you are from the North Shore or surrounding Massachusetts communities, mention it in your application because Salem State actively serves regional students and connecting yourself to the local community can strengthen your fit.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Salem State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$36k/yr$10.5k
30k-48k~$36k/yr$13.9k
48k-75k~$36k/yr$13.8k
75k-110k~$36k/yr$17.6k
110k+~$36k/yr$23.2k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

55%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$48k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
14:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,713
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

52%White
25%Hispanic
9%Black / African American
4%Two or More Races
4%International
4%Unknown / Unreported
3%Asian
0%American Indian / AK Native
Gender36% Men · 64% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status96% Citizens and Immigrants · 4% International
Salem State, Salem Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch