
29 Everett Street, Cambridge, MA 02138-2790, USA


Lesley University holds institutional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring that it meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in delivering higher education. This regional accreditation is recognized by the U. S. Department of Education and is a key factor for students considering the transferability of credits and eligibility for federal financial aid.
In addition to its institutional accreditation, specific programs at Lesley University have received specialized accreditation pertinent to their disciplines. For example, certain education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which highlights the university's commitment to maintaining rigorous preparation standards for future educators.
These accreditations collectively affirm that Lesley University provides recognized and credible academic offerings, which is an important consideration for prospective students evaluating the institution's academic integrity and professional recognition of their degrees.
Lesley University requires applicants to have completed a high school education or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and maintain a required secondary school GPA for admission consideration. While there is no open admission policy, the university does require recommendations as part of the application process.
English language proficiency is mandatory, with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) exam required for non-native speakers. Additional standardized test scores, such as other admission tests, are recommended but not compulsory. The university also recommends submitting admission test scores, though they are not strictly required.
Applicants must have completed prior college-level coursework to qualify for the programs, and the institution accepts college credit transfers including Advanced Placement (AP) credits. There is no necessity for applicants to lease or provide access to a computer as part of the admission requirements.
Lesley University has a high acceptance rate, approximately 94%, indicating a relatively accessible admission process. However, only a portion of admitted students ultimately enroll: women represent a larger share of admission and enrollment compared to men. The percentage of enrolled men is notably lower, reflecting a moderate level of competition among male applicants.
Lesley University requires prospective students to pay an application fee upon submitting their materials. This fee is a standard part of the admissions process and is intended to cover administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the exact amount of the application fee is not specified here.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need may be eligible for a fee waiver, which alleviates the financial burden and allows a wider range of students to apply. Typically, requests for fee waivers must be supported by appropriate documentation or verification of financial hardship.
Additionally, fee waivers might be available to certain groups, such as participants in specific outreach or recruitment programs, although precise eligibility criteria are not detailed. It is advisable for applicants to contact the admissions office directly to inquire about the possibility and process for obtaining a fee waiver.
Lesley University does not offer its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on campus. However, students interested in pursuing ROTC training typically have the option to participate through cooperative agreements with nearby institutions that host Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC units. This arrangement allows Lesley University students to receive military leadership education and training while completing their academic studies.
Prospective students should consider that ROTC participation usually involves a significant commitment to military coursework, physical training, and leadership development alongside their college curriculum. Since Lesley University does not operate ROTC battalions directly, those seeking to enroll in ROTC programs must coordinate with partner universities where these programs are available.
Lesley University permits transfer applications for several entry terms, including fall, spring, and summer semesters. This flexibility allows students to plan their enrollment according to their schedules and academic progress. Transfer applicants can bring credits from other institutions, as the university accepts transfer credits and evaluates them accordingly.
Prospective students can submit prior learning credits earned through recognized programs, with the university accepting credits from both CLEP subject examinations and DANTES programs. Additionally, transfer applicants who present recommendation letters are also considered, which may support their application materials.
The admission process for transfer students is characterized as moderately difficult, indicating a balanced level of selectivity. These factors together provide a framework for transfer candidates seeking to continue their education at Lesley University with academic credits already earned elsewhere.
Lesley University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities aimed at enhancing students' global perspectives and academic experiences. These programs include semester-long exchanges, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer immersion experiences, each designed to fit diverse academic interests and schedules. Students may choose from destinations aligned with their majors or personal interests, enabling them to engage deeply with different cultures while earning academic credit.
Many of the programs emphasize experiential learning through internships, community engagement, or research projects abroad. The university fosters partnerships with international institutions to provide students with well-structured study environments and support services during their time overseas. These collaborations ensure quality academic rigor and cultural immersion tailored to various disciplines.
Additionally, Lesley University supports customization of study abroad plans to accommodate individual educational goals, including options within art, education, social sciences, and business fields. This flexibility aids students in aligning their overseas experiences with their career aspirations and academic requirements.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
7%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy 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