The New England Conservatory of Music
Acceptance rate
41.1%
2025
Peer median 61.3%
Tuition per year
$60,750
$80,760 with room and board
Peer median $40,478
Undergraduates
421
Student-faculty ratio 5:1
Peer median 9 : 1
Graduation rate
72.6%
4-year; 6-year rate 82.1%
Peer median 52.9%
“Peers” are all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
The New England Conservatory of Music (NEC), founded in 1867, stands as one of the oldest and most prestigious music schools in the United States. Located in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts, NEC is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and exceptional faculty. The conservatory offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of music, including performance, composition, jazz, and contemporary improvisation. Its curriculum emphasizes both classical and modern music, allowing students to explore diverse musical styles and traditions. The faculty comprises accomplished musicians and educators who bring a wealth of experience and expertise, ensuring that students receive high-quality instruction and mentorship.
The campus culture at NEC is vibrant and collaborative, fostering a strong sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni. The school's commitment to creativity and innovation is reflected in its numerous performance opportunities, master classes, and workshops. Students engage in a variety of ensembles, orchestras, and chamber groups, providing them with practical experience and exposure to professional settings. Additionally, NEC's location in Boston offers students access to a rich cultural scene, including concerts, festivals, and music-related events. The conservatory's emphasis on holistic musicianship, combined with its supportive environment, prepares graduates to excel in their careers, whether as performers, educators, or composers. Many NEC alumni have gone on to achieve significant success in the music industry, contributing to the school's legacy of excellence in music education.
Analysis of Key Metrics at New England Conservatory of Music
The New England Conservatory of Music has displayed notable trends in several key metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention. The tuition for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students has seen a significant increase, rising from $39,955 in 2014 to $58,550 in 2024. This represents a staggering increase of approximately 47% over a decade, which reflects the broader trend of rising tuition fees across higher education institutions in the United States. Such increases can be a barrier for prospective students, particularly in the arts where financial aid may be less predictable.
Graduation rates have also fluctuated during this period. The on-time graduation rate peaked at approximately 77.8% in 2021 but has since dropped to 53.3% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about the institution's ability to support students through to graduation, especially given the financial burdens they face. The 150% graduation rate, which accounts for students graduating within six years, has similarly dropped to 70.7% in 2023, down from a high of 87.3% in 2017. This downward trend may suggest a need for enhanced academic and financial support systems.
Retention rates, however, have remained relatively stable, with a high of 98.9% in 2013 and a current rate of 92.9% in 2023. This indicates that once students enroll, they tend to stay at the conservatory, which is a positive sign for the institution. The student-to-faculty ratio, hovering around 4 to 5 students per faculty member, suggests an intimate learning environment, which is crucial for a specialized institution like a conservatory.
In summary, while the New England Conservatory of Music maintains high retention rates and a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, the rising tuition costs and declining graduation rates warrant attention. Addressing these issues will be essential for ensuring the institution remains accessible and supportive for its current and future students.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Large city
- Nearest major city
- In Boston
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 4 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Andrea Kalyn (President)
- Phone
- 6175851100
- City
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Address
- 290 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115-5018
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 61.3% · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 40.7%, women 33.0%.
Data insights
Trends in Admission Rates at The New England Conservatory of Music
The admission data from The New England Conservatory of Music reveals intriguing trends over the years. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have shown fluctuations. In 2009, the male acceptance rate was approximately 33.4%, while the female rate was around 29.9%. Fast forward to 2023, and we see a more competitive landscape, with the male acceptance rate rising to 41.3% and the female rate to 34.6%.
The total number of enrollments also reflects changes in the institution's popularity and selectivity. In 2009, 86 students enrolled, but this number peaked at 123 in 2017, indicating a growing interest in music education at the conservatory. However, in recent years, the number of new enrollments has decreased significantly, dropping to just 48 in 2023, which raises questions about the factors influencing prospective students' choices.
Moreover, the number of applicants denied admission has varied, with a peak of 919 denials in 2012. This suggests that while interest in the conservatory surged, so did the competition. The deferment numbers show that many students were still keen on securing their spot, as evidenced by the high deferment rates in recent years.
These trends may reflect broader changes in the educational landscape, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on music education and the evolving needs of students. As institutions adapt to these changes, understanding these admission statistics becomes crucial for prospective students navigating their educational paths.
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Scores at New England Conservatory of Music
The data from the New England Conservatory of Music reflects a consistent trend of reporting both SAT and ACT scores for its applicants over the years. However, it is notable that for the years provided, the specific score ranges for reading, mathematics, and composite scores are absent, which limits the ability to analyze trends in applicant performance.
The lack of published scores may indicate a shift in admissions strategy, possibly focusing on holistic review processes rather than standardized test results. This aligns with a broader trend in higher education where many institutions are moving towards test-optional policies, emphasizing other aspects of a student's application such as portfolios, interviews, and personal statements.
Moreover, the absence of participation rates in standardized testing submissions could suggest that a significant number of applicants may not feel compelled to submit test scores, possibly due to the evolving perceptions of their importance in the admissions process. This phenomenon could be influenced by ongoing discussions surrounding equity and access in education, as standardized tests have faced criticism for potentially disadvantaging certain groups of students.
In conclusion, while the data lacks specific performance metrics, the ongoing changes in admissions practices at the New England Conservatory of Music reflect broader national trends that prioritize diverse factors in evaluating prospective students. This is crucial in fostering a more inclusive and varied student body, which is essential in the arts and music fields.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
1,112 applicants in 2025, 41.1% admitted
457 admitted 655 not admitted Yield 29.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Stringed Instruments · Master's36 (53% international)
- Keyboard Instruments · Master's27 (70% international)
- Jazz/Jazz Studies · Master's18 (61% international)
- Voice and Opera · Master's15 (60% international)
- Music Theory and Composition · Master's14 (93% international)
- Woodwind Instruments · Master's11 (55% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Statistics at The New England Conservatory of Music
The graduation data from The New England Conservatory of Music for 2023 reveals some compelling insights into the distribution of degrees awarded across various music disciplines. Notably, the absence of bachelor’s degrees in all listed programs underscores a significant trend: students may be opting for more advanced studies directly, bypassing undergraduate education. This is particularly evident in areas such as Music History, Literature, and Theory, which shows no graduates at the bachelor level, yet has a small output at the master's level.
The master's programs, especially in Brass Instruments and Percussion Instruments, are seeing a modest number of graduates, with 12 and 6 respectively. This indicates a focused interest in these areas, likely reflecting both the institution's strengths and the market demand for skilled musicians in these disciplines. Moreover, the presence of international students in master's programs suggests that The New England Conservatory is an attractive option for global talent, with a combined total of 8 graduates.
Interestingly, no doctorate degrees were awarded in any of the performance or pedagogy fields, which could point to either a lack of candidates pursuing advanced research in these areas or a potential opportunity for the institution to develop more comprehensive doctorate programs that cater to these fields.
Overall, the data indicates a shift towards advanced music education, with a potential need for reevaluation of undergraduate offerings. This trend aligns with broader educational patterns where students increasingly seek specialized training to enhance their career prospects in the competitive arts landscape.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Music History, Literature, and Theory. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Music Performance, General. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Music Theory and Composition. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Conducting. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Keyboard Instruments. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Voice and Opera. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Jazz/Jazz Studies. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Stringed Instruments. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Brass Instruments. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Woodwind Instruments. | $22,827-$40,586 | |||
| Percussion Instruments. | $22,827-$40,586 |
Students
853 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 88.4%
- Continuing undergraduates 257
- First-year undergraduates 125
- Graduate students 432
- Transfers and others 39
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (421)
Data insights
Diversity and Gender Representation in Music Education
The data from the New England Conservatory of Music for 2023 presents an intriguing picture of student demographics, particularly in terms of gender representation and diversity among different academic levels. Among the incoming undergraduate freshmen, there is a nearly even split in gender, with 48.9% male and 51.1% female students, indicating a welcoming environment for both genders.
In contrast, the undergraduate continuing students show a higher male representation at 55%, suggesting a potential trend where males may be more likely to persist in their studies at this level. The graduate student body, comprising 414 individuals, also reflects a balanced gender distribution with 51.7% male and 48.3% female, highlighting a consistent commitment to gender equity across various levels of education.
Examining the ethnic diversity further, the white demographic constitutes a significant portion of the student body, particularly among undergraduates. This is an important aspect considering the ongoing discussions in higher education regarding representation and inclusivity. The presence of international students and those from various ethnic backgrounds is crucial for fostering a rich cultural exchange, which is a vital component of music education.
Overall, while the conservatory seems to be making strides in gender balance, the focus on enhancing ethnic diversity remains essential. As institutions continue to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these demographics shift and what initiatives are implemented to support a more inclusive environment for all students in the arts.
Age Composition at The New England Conservatory of Music
The age composition of students at The New England Conservatory of Music in 2023 reveals interesting trends in enrollment across various age groups.
Notably, the majority of undergraduate and graduate students fall within the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-21, which is typical for conservatories that attract fresh talent from high schools. The data indicates that students aged 18-19 comprise about 35% of the total male population and 42% of the total female population, highlighting a strong presence of new entrants in this age group. Similarly, the 20-21 age category also shows significant numbers, particularly among undergraduates, suggesting that most students are likely transitioning directly from secondary education to higher music education.
Interestingly, the numbers begin to dwindle in the older age brackets. For instance, only a handful of students aged 25-29 and above are enrolled, with the participation rate decreasing sharply after 24. This trend could reflect the demanding nature of musical training, which often requires significant time and dedication, potentially deterring older candidates who may have other life commitments.
The gender distribution is also worth noting, with a nearly even split among undergraduate males and females in the younger age groups, while graduate females outnumber their male counterparts in the 22-24 age bracket. This could suggest a growing interest among women in pursuing advanced studies in music, reflecting broader trends in higher education where female enrollment has surpassed male enrollment in many fields.
Overall, the age composition and gender distribution at The New England Conservatory of Music illustrate the institution's role in shaping the future of music education, attracting a diverse range of young talent while encouraging a more balanced representation in graduate programs.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
174 in 2025 · 33.7% in 2016
240 in 2025 · 45.5% in 2016
Data insights
International Student Trends at the New England Conservatory of Music
The data from the New England Conservatory of Music illustrates notable trends in international student enrollment over the years. The undergraduate international student population has shown a steady increase, peaking at approximately 41.65% in 2020 before experiencing a slight decline in subsequent years. This percentage indicates a growing interest in the institution among international students, reflecting broader trends in higher education where students seek diverse cultural and academic experiences.
In contrast, the graduate international student enrollment reveals even more striking figures, with the percentage reaching as high as 47.10% in 2023. This suggests that the graduate programs are particularly appealing to international students, possibly due to the specialized nature of the programs offered and the prestige associated with the conservatory's faculty and resources.
The fluctuation in numbers, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlights the impact of global events on international education. As travel restrictions and health concerns affected student mobility, institutions like the New England Conservatory had to adapt, possibly influencing enrollment figures.
Moreover, the increasing presence of international students enhances the cultural diversity on campus, which can enrich the educational experience for all students. It also emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in the arts, as students from various backgrounds contribute unique perspectives and experiences.
Overall, the data reflects a dynamic landscape for international students at the New England Conservatory, showcasing both challenges and opportunities in the global education sector. As the world continues to recover from recent disruptions, it will be interesting to observe how these trends evolve in the coming years.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$80,760
- Undergraduate tuition
- $60,750
- Room and board
- $20,010
- Graduate tuition
- $60,750
Peer median tuition + room and board $58,844 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Tuition rose 41% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 51%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$73.3M
Expenses$59.1M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 0.1 mi
U.S. News #42
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 1.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 1.3 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 2.8 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 4.2 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 4.9 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 11.8 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 37.6 mi
Liberal Arts #22
-
Brown UniversityProvidence · 39.1 mi
U.S. News #16
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding the New England Conservatory of Music:
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (麻省理工学院) - Ranked 2 in the 2024 US News, MIT is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovation, particularly in science and technology.
-
Harvard University (哈佛大学) - Ranked 3, Harvard is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, known for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and a vast array of programs.
-
Wellesley College (韦尔斯利学院) - With a remarkable rank of 4, Wellesley College is a highly regarded women's liberal arts college, offering a rich academic experience.
-
Brown University (布朗大学) - Ranked 9, Brown is famous for its unique Open Curriculum, allowing students to design their own educational paths.
-
Boston College (波士顿学院) - With a rank of 39, Boston College offers a strong liberal arts education with a commitment to academic rigor and student development.
-
Tufts University (塔夫茨大学) - Ranked 40, Tufts is known for its diverse programs and strong international focus, particularly in the fields of international relations and diplomacy.
These institutions provide a rich academic environment and are well-regarded both nationally and internationally.
Peer median 1.3 · all 51 private art, music and design schools in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at The New England Conservatory of Music
The crime statistics from The New England Conservatory of Music over the years reveal interesting trends regarding student misconduct and criminal activity on campus. The data indicates a noticeable spike in crime rates in 2017, with a rate of 32.97 incidents per 1,000 students, which is significantly higher than the surrounding years. This fluctuation raises questions about potential underlying factors, such as changes in campus policies or external influences impacting student behavior.
In recent years, particularly from 2020 onwards, there has been a sharp decline in reported incidents, with the crime rate dropping to 5.53 per 1,000 students in 2023. This substantial decrease could be reflective of effective crime prevention strategies, increased awareness among students, or even the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus populations and activities.
The breakdown of offenses shows that gun-related arrests and domestic violence incidents are concerning areas, although the data suggests that these occurrences may have been minimal on campus. The relatively low numbers for serious offenses like murder and sexual assault indicate that the environment, while not devoid of issues, is relatively safe compared to larger urban settings.
Overall, these statistics underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being. The trends suggest that while there are peaks in crime, the overall trajectory is improving, which is encouraging for current and prospective students.
For further understanding of how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
All 66Notable alumni of The New England Conservatory of Music include Coretta Scott King (Civil rights leader and wife of Martin Luther King Jr), Josephine Hull (Stage and film actress) and Eleanor H. Porter (Novelist, creator of the Pollyanna series).
-
Coretta Scott King 1927–2006
Civil rights leader and wife of Martin Luther King Jr
-
Josephine Hull 1877–1957
Stage and film actress
-
Eleanor H. Porter 1868–1920
Novelist, creator of the Pollyanna series
-
Rose Kennedy 1890–1995
Philanthropist and mother of John F. Kennedy
-
Walter Pidgeon 1897–1984
Canadian-American actor, two-time Oscar nominee
-
Cecil Taylor 1929–2018
Free jazz pianist and poet
-
Herbert Blomstedt 1927–2026
Swedish conductor
-
Yitzhak Yedid 1971–
Israeli-Australian composer and pianist
-
Leroy Anderson 1908–1975
Composer of short, light concert pieces
See all 66 notable alumni of The New England Conservatory of Music →
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.