
Hoboken, NJprivate nonprofitwww.stevens.edu/
Stevens Institute of Technology is a STEM powerhouse with a waterfront campus in Hoboken, offering a rigorous, tech-infused curriculum that translates into exceptional career outcomes. Known for its strong engineering and computer science programs, Stevens combines a 'right-size' supportive environment with proximity to NYC's job market, producing graduates who command top-tier salaries.
Stevens is selective but accessible compared to elite tech schools, with a 47.6% Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. (2023-2024 cycle) and middle-50% SAT scores of 1380-1505. The incoming class typically has an average GPA of 3.8, and the gender balance skews male (65.7% of undergraduates). Notably, 93.6% of first-year students return for their sophomore year, signaling strong student satisfaction.
Key stats:
Stevens delivers a 'tech-infused curriculum' across 300+ areas of study, with engineering, computer science, and business dominating the majors. The approach blends rigorous STEM training with systems thinking and humanities—one alum describes it as 'a liberal arts science and engineering degree.' The school emphasizes creation, discovery, and research with societal impact, guided by faculty in small-class settings.
Signature features:
Life at Stevens balances intense academics with a tight-knit community. About 50% of women join sororities (there are 5 NPC orgs), and the Instagrammable Hudson River location fuels outdoor hangs. Students describe a 'choose your own adventure' vibe with 100+ clubs—from anime to robotics—and easy NYC access for weekend escapes. The 8,000-student body creates a 'right-size' feel: big enough for diversity, small enough to avoid getting lost.
Campus quirks:
Stevens graduates hit the ground running: 93.4% secure jobs or continue education immediately, with Class of 2025 grads earning an average $86,900 starting salary. The median salary jumps to $113,000 within four years—ranking Stevens 26th nationally for graduate earnings. These results stem from a 94% first-year retention rate and 90% six-year graduation rate, plus strong industry ties in finance, tech, and engineering.
Notable stats:
Like most elite tech schools, Stevens comes at a premium, but 98% of undergrads receive aid. The university emphasizes 'non-repayable aid' (grants/scholarships) through programs like The Stevens Investment, which covers tuition entirely for some students. Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculators help families estimate true costs after aid—critical given Hoboken's high cost of living.
Financial snapshot:
Stevens occupies a sweet spot: the academic rigor of a top engineering school without the cutthroat culture, plus NYC adjacency that turbocharges careers. Its 'applied learning' model—where students design solutions for real companies as early as freshman year—explains why graduates out-earn peers from flashier brands. For STEM-focused students who want big opportunities without getting lost in a mega-university, Stevens delivers.



