Tufts University is a private research university in Medford and Somerville, Massachusetts, just outside Boston. It is smaller than the big Boston names, which is exactly its appeal: a research university with a liberal-arts feel, strong international relations and engineering, and easy access to one of the world's great student cities.
At a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Medford / Somerville, Massachusetts, USA (near Boston) |
| Type | Private research university |
| Tuition and fees (2026-27) | About $73,685 a year |
| Total cost of attendance (2026-27) | About $96,078 a year (reported; some listings put the full total near $102,385) |
| English requirement (reported) | IELTS 7.0 minimum for undergraduate study |
| Work | Up to 20 hours a week on campus during semesters |
Programmes
Tufts is strongest in international relations (the Fletcher School is one of the world's top schools of international affairs), engineering, computer science, biology and pre-med, economics and the arts. The School of Arts and Sciences and the School of Engineering offer the main undergraduate degrees, and the university is known for combining research with close faculty contact. Graduate programmes in engineering, data science and international affairs attract many international students.
Fees and funding
Tuition and fees for 2026-27 are about $73,685, with room, board and living expenses adding roughly $22,393, for a total cost of attendance of about $96,078 (some sources list the full total nearer $102,385 once all costs are included — confirm the exact figure on the university's cost page). Tuition rises 4–5% a year. Tufts is need-aware for international students and aid is limited, so most international undergraduates should plan on family funding plus external scholarships or a loan. Check the financial-aid page for the current international aid policy before you apply.
Admission
Undergraduate applicants use the Common Application. International applicants need strong school results, recommendations, and an English test — IELTS 7.0 is the reported minimum for undergraduate study, with TOEFL and Duolingo also accepted. Tufts reads applications holistically and values evidence of curiosity, community engagement and fit with its collaborative culture. Deadlines for 2027-28 entry should be confirmed on the admissions page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Tufts cost? About $73,685 in tuition and fees in 2026-27, with a total cost of attendance of roughly $96,078–$102,385 depending on what is included.
Is Tufts in Boston? Its main campus is in Medford/Somerville, a short ride from central Boston — close enough for internships and city life, quiet enough to study.
What is Tufts best for? International relations, engineering, computer science, biology and pre-med.
Does Tufts give aid to international students? Aid is available but limited and need-aware. Confirm the current policy on the financial-aid page.
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Sources and verification: Tufts University published 2026-27 costs (tuition and fees $73,685, total about $96,078) and admissions guidance; IELTS 7.0 minimum reported. Exact total and 2027-28 deadlines to be confirmed on tufts.edu.