
352 Lafayette Street, Salem, MA 01970, USA


At Salem State University, the full-time undergraduate tuition for in-state and in-district students is notably low, set at $910 per semester, placing it in the bottom 10% nationwide for affordability. However, fees present a contrasting picture, as they are exceptionally high at $11,068 per semester, ranking among the top 5% for most expensive fees.
For out-of-state undergraduates attending full-time, tuition rises to $7,050 per semester, still low in comparison to national standards, but fees increase to $11,911, again placing them in the highest fee percentile.
Graduate tuition follows a similar trend, with full-time in-state graduate tuition at $2,520 per semester-again in the bottom 15% for cost-while fees remain very high at $6,568. Out-of-state graduate tuition is $4,140, keeping a low tuition level, and fees are $6,607, which is among the highest.
Part-time students face hourly charges that are average or slightly below average. In-state part-time undergraduate hourly charges are $499, and out-of-state part-time charges are $790, both falling into the lower to mid-range percentile nationally.
Salem State University offers on-campus housing with a dormitory capacity of approximately 1,675 beds, which is considered average compared to other institutions. However, specific costs for room and board are not available, limiting the ability to provide a comprehensive estimate of total annual expenses.
When comparing tuition and fees alone to national averages, Salem State University presents a mix of very low tuition with unusually high fees. For instance, the combined fees for full-time in-state undergraduates exceed $11,000 per semester, which pushes up the total cost despite the low tuition. This differs notably from the average total annual costs of in-state students at a four-year public college in the US, which stand at about $25,707 when considering tuition, fees, and room and board.
Salem State University offers various work-study options designed to support students financially while providing valuable work experience. Eligible students may participate in federally funded work-study programs, allowing them to earn wages through on-campus employment opportunities. These positions are often aligned with students' academic interests and can include roles in administrative offices, libraries, research departments, and campus services.
Work-study positions typically pay students an hourly wage commensurate with the nature of the job and prevailing local standards. Although specific average pay rates are not detailed, the compensation aims to ease educational expenses while fostering professional skills. Additionally, the university encourages students to explore internship opportunities that may complement their studies and career goals, sometimes facilitated through academic departments or career services.
International students enrolled at Salem State University are eligible to participate in certain on-campus employment roles, including work-study jobs, subject to federal regulations. These opportunities provide them with a means to support their education financially while gaining practical experience in the campus environment.
Total dormitory capacity
1675Institution provide on-campus housing
YesInstitution provides board or meal plan
Data not availableAny alternative tuition plans offered by institution
Data not availableTuition guaranteed plan
Data not availablePrepaid tuition plan
Data not availableUndergraduate average amount
$8,277All
$8,241Undergraduate average amount
$7,561Graduate average amount
$6,087Students awarded Title IV federal financial aid (2023-2024)
Average net price (income 30,001-48,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$14,747Average net price (income 48,001-75,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$17,712Average net price (income 75,001-110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$21,398Average net price (income over 110,000)-students awarded Title IV federal financial aid, 2018-19
$24,642