
131 Summer Street, Bridgewater, MA 02325, USA


Bridgewater State University holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which validates the institution's overall academic quality and standards. This regional accreditation reassures prospective students that the university meets established criteria essential for higher education institutions in New England.
The university's education programs have received specialized accreditation from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). This endorsement indicates that Bridgewater State University's teacher preparation curriculum aligns with rigorous national standards, an important consideration for those intending to pursue careers in education.
Additionally, the university's nursing programs are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), signaling that these programs fulfill professional criteria necessary to prepare students for nursing careers.
Bridgewater State University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or a high school diploma. Applicants must submit their secondary school records and demonstrate an acceptable Grade Point Average (GPA). While secondary school class rank is not mandatory, it is recommended to improve the application's strength. A college program completion is required for admission consideration.
English proficiency is assessed through required TOEFL scores for international applicants. Additional standardized test results beyond TOEFL are suggested but not compulsory. The university maintains a selective admission policy and does not operate on an open admission basis. Dual credit or credit before enrollment is not accepted, though Advanced Placement (AP) credits can be applied toward degree requirements.
The applicant pool exhibits an average academic profile with a mean SAT score of 1105, placing students in approximately the 35th percentile nationally. The mean ACT score is 24, ranking near the median at about the 46th percentile. Bridgewater State University's acceptance rate is relatively high at 89%, reflecting a moderately accessible admissions process compared to other institutions.
Bridgewater State University charges an application fee for prospective students, which helps cover the processing costs of admissions materials. The fee is a standardized amount payable when submitting an undergraduate application. However, the university provides fee waivers to applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility criteria. These waivers are intended to remove financial barriers and encourage a diverse range of students to apply.
Applicants seeking a fee waiver typically need to submit documentation verifying their eligibility, such as proof of participation in government assistance programs or being part of a fee waiver initiative through high schools or college access organizations. Bridgewater State University recommends contacting the admissions office directly to confirm fee waiver policies and to receive guidance on how to apply for a waiver. This approach ensures that financial obstacles do not deter qualified candidates from pursuing admission.
Bridgewater State University does not host its own ROTC branch units on campus. Prospective students interested in ROTC programs will need to participate through cooperating host institutions where ROTC branches are available. Specific details about which nearby institutions offer these programs in partnership with Bridgewater State University are not provided.
Bridgewater State University welcomes transfer applicants for multiple enrollment periods, including fall, spring, and summer terms, providing flexibility for students planning their transitions. The university maintains a moderately difficult admissions process for transfer students, balancing selectivity with accessibility.
The institution accepts transfer credits, allowing students to bring previously earned academic credits toward their degree programs. This includes credits earned through standardized exams such as the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) for both subject-specific and general exams, as well as the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) tests. Prospective transfers can also submit letters of recommendation to support their applications.
Bridgewater State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance academic and cultural experiences for its students. These programs range from short-term faculty-led trips to semester-long exchanges that allow participants to immerse themselves in different educational systems and cultures.
The university supports programs across multiple continents, providing options tailored to diverse academic interests and personal preferences. Students can choose from programs that offer focused coursework related to their major or interdisciplinary themes, as well as cultural immersion experiences that include language practice and community engagement.
In addition to faculty-led trips, Bridgewater State University participates in exchange agreements with partner institutions globally. These exchanges enable students to study full semesters or academic years abroad, earning credits that count toward their degree requirements.
The university also facilitates internships and service-learning opportunities abroad, which combine practical professional experience with cultural exposure. These programs aim to prepare students for the global workforce by developing cross-cultural competencies and real-world skills.
Support services, such as pre-departure orientations and advising, are provided to help students select appropriate programs and navigate the logistics of international study. Financial aid and scholarships may be available to assist with the costs associated with studying abroad.
Median composite SAT score
1105Median composite ACT score
24Percent of students submitting ACT scores
0.8%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
11.3%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer