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Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA·Private nonprofit·5,344 students
Last updated: March 22, 2026

A good fit for students focused on high earning potential. no major red flags in the data. graduates earn a median of $84,600 within 10 years; strong 88% graduation rate.

59%
Accept
5,344
Students
$43,273
Net Price
88%
Grad Rate
$84,600
Earnings
10 yr
$26,978
Debt

About This School

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a private nonprofit institution located in Worcester, Massachusetts with approximately 5,344 undergraduate students enrolled. Worcester Polytechnic Institute has an open or accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 59%. The average net price after financial aid is $43,273 per year. The graduation rate is 88%, and the typical graduate earns $84,600 within 10 years of enrollment.

The Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a private research university in Worcester, Massachusetts, United States. Founded in 1865, WPI was one of the United States' first engineering and technology universities and now has 14 academic departments with over 50 bachelor's, master's, and Ph.D. degree programs. It is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity".

Strong option for students serious about STEM and engineering — 94% of freshmen return for sophomore year, and graduates earn a median of $84,600 a decade out, which holds up well against the $26,978 median debt load. The 59% acceptance rate means it's selective without being a long shot, and the project-based curriculum gives students real-world experience before graduation. The $43,273 annual net price is the main caution — make sure financial aid packaging works for your family, as that cost adds up quickly over four years.

Founded
1865
Setting
Midsize city

Popular Programs

Engineering62%
Computer Science19%
Biological Sciences6%
Mathematics3%
Visual & Performing Arts2%
Physical Sciences2%
Business & Marketing0%
Psychology0%

Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.

Notable Alumni

Robert H. GoddardDean KamenTodd AkinHarold Stephen BlackJ. GeilsElwood HaynesRichard T. WhitcombGilbert Vernam

Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.

Admissions

SAT Scores

Average CompositeN/A

ACT Scores

Midpoint CompositeN/A

Cost & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition
$59,070
Out-of-State Tuition
$59,070
Avg Net Price
$43,273
after aid

Financial Aid

Students receiving Pell Grants10%
Median debt at graduation$26,978

Full Cost

After Graduation

Graduation Rate
88%
within 6 years
Retention Rate
94%
freshmen returning
Earnings (10 yr)
$84,600
after enrollment
Median Debt
$26,978
at graduation

Will This School Pay Off?

Median Debt
$26,978
at graduation
Earnings (6 yr)
$66,300
after enrollment
Earnings (10 yr)
$84,600
after enrollment
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio: 3.1x

Strong return. Graduates earn well above their debt load.

Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. These are means across all graduates, not specific to any major.

Student Body

White65%
Black3%
Hispanic/Latino8%
Asian13%

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (5,344 undergraduates).

Contact & Location

Address

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

100 Institute Road

Worcester, MA 01609-2280

View on Google Maps →

Other Schools in Massachusetts

Browse all Massachusetts schools →

Sources & Methodology

Data

Primary data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Accessed via automated sync. Latest values may come from different reporting years depending on the metric.

Contextual Enrichment

School overview from Wikipedia. Used for context only, not as a primary data source for admissions, cost, or outcomes claims.

Important Caveats
  • Earnings figures are institution-level averages, not major-specific.
  • Some metrics are based on Title IV financial aid recipients only.
  • Some values may be privacy-suppressed or rolled up by the Department of Education.
  • Contact the school directly for current admissions requirements and costs.
Trademarks

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