Skip to main content
BU
University of Massachusetts Boston: Tuition, Fees, and Cost of Attendance

University of Massachusetts Boston: Tuition, Fees, and Cost of Attendance

Explore the comprehensive cost of attending the University of Massachusetts Boston, including tuition, fees, housing, and more. Get the details to plan your college budget.

Photo: Changbok Ko
Financial
Updated 2026-01
7 min read

University of Massachusetts Boston: Tuition, Fees, and Cost of Attendance

Explore the comprehensive cost of attending the University of Massachusetts Boston, including tuition, fees, housing, and more. Get the details to plan your college budget.
DP
David Park

BU Class of 2025 | ENG

Share:
1

The Quick Answer

This guide breaks down university of massachusetts boston: tuition, fees, and cost of attendance at Boston University (BU) using official data and observed patterns from families who have navigated the process. Guide to BU aims to make financial planning more transparent.

2

Understanding the Cost of Attending UMass Boston

Choosing the right university is a big decision, and understanding the cost of attendance is a crucial part of that process. As a prospective student, you'll want to know exactly what you'll be paying for your education at the University of Massachusetts Boston. This guide breaks down the various expenses you can expect, so you can plan your college budget accordingly.What's Included in the UMass Boston Cost of Attendance?The total cost of attendance at UMass Boston encompasses several key expenses:- Tuition and Fees: The base cost for your classes and university services- Room and Board: The price of on-campus housing and meal plans- Books and Supplies: Estimated costs for textbooks, course materials, and school supplies- Personal and Transportation Expenses: Other costs like travel, entertainment, and miscellaneous spending

3

Tuition and Fees

At the heart of the UMass Boston cost of attendance is the tuition and mandatory fees. These charges cover the basic educational services provided by the university.Tuition Rates- In-State Tuition: $14,714 per year- Out-of-State Tuition: $33,848 per yearTuition is based on your residency status, with in-state students paying a significantly lower rate.Mandatory FeesOn top of tuition, all UMass Boston students must pay the following fees:- University Fee: $3,958 per year- Transportation Fee: $320 per yearThese required fees support campus resources and services like the library, health center, and shuttle buses.Additional Course/Lab FeesSome classes, particularly in scientific or creative disciplines, may also carry additional fees to cover special equipment, materials, or facilities. These can range from $50 to $300 per course.

4

Room and Board

Housing and dining are two major expenses that contribute to the overall UMass Boston cost of attendance.On-Campus Housing- Traditional Dorms: $11,456 - $13,200 per year- Apartments: $12,040 - $13,800 per yearHousing rates vary depending on the style of accommodation, from traditional dorm rooms to apartment-style suites.Meal Plans- Unlimited Meal Plan: $6,360 per year- Block Meal Plan: $5,810 - $6,110 per yearThe unlimited plan provides the most flexibility, while block plans offer a set number of meals per semester.Off-Campus LivingStudents who choose to live off-campus can expect to pay $12,000 - $18,000 per year for rent, utilities, and food, in addition to other personal expenses.

5

Other Cost Considerations

Beyond the core tuition, fees, room, and board, there are a few other expenses to factor into your UMass Boston budget.Books and Supplies- Estimated at $1,000 - $1,500 per year, depending on your course load and book-buying strategies.Personal and Transportation Expenses- Costs like laundry, entertainment, cell phone, and local transportation can add up to $2,000 - $3,000 per year.Health Insurance- UMass Boston requires all students to have health insurance coverage. The university plan costs $3,465 per year.Overall Cost of AttendanceAdding up all these expenses, the total cost of attendance at UMass Boston for the 2022-2023 academic year is estimated at:- In-State Students: $39,813 - $42,303- Out-of-State Students: $58,947 - $61,437These figures represent the high end of the range, so students may be able to reduce costs through scholarships, grants, and careful budgeting.

6

What Surprises Families Most About BU Costs

The sticker price at BU often doesn't reflect what families actually pay. Merit scholarships, need-based aid, and negotiation can significantly reduce the actual cost—but you have to know how to navigate the process.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there financial aid available at UMass Boston?
Yes, UMass Boston offers a variety of financial aid options to help make college more affordable. These include scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students should complete the FAFSA to be considered for federal and state aid.
Can I live off-campus at UMass Boston?
Yes, UMass Boston allows students to live off-campus. However, the university estimates that off-campus living can cost $12,000 - $18,000 per year, which is more expensive than on-campus housing and dining options.
What's included in the UMass Boston transportation fee?
The $320 per year transportation fee covers access to the university's shuttle bus service, which provides transportation between the campus and nearby MBTA stations. This fee also supports parking permits and other transit options for students.
Related

Related Guides

You Might Also Like

Get More BU Tips

Join 5,000+ students getting weekly insider tips and campus updates.

No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.

Found this helpful? Share it!

Share:

Have insights to share?

Help other BU students by sharing your experience. Your review could help thousands!