Quick Facts
Premier independent music conservatory
Location
Boston, MA (Fenway area)
Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Popular Majors
Music Performance, Composition, Conducting, Jazz Studies, Contemporary Improvisation
Total Students	Undergrad Students
800	400
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$58,000	$19,000
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Extremely Selective (audition-based)	$48,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
In Boston
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

New England Conservatory (NEC), founded in 1867, is America's oldest independent music conservatory and one of the world's most prestigious institutions for classical, jazz, and contemporary music training. Located in Boston's Fenway area with the historic Jordan Hall as its centerpiece, NEC serves approximately 800 students from around the globe with elite programs emphasizing performance excellence, artistic innovation, and professional readiness. The conservatory's renowned faculty of active performers and composers, combined with over 1,000 annual concerts, creates an immersive environment for musical growth and career development.

NEC offers bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees in performance, composition, conducting, jazz, and contemporary improvisation.

Programs emphasize rigorous technique, ensemble work, and public performances.

Dual-degree options available with Harvard and Tufts.

NEC presents over 1,000 concerts annually.

The Fenway campus features Jordan Hall, a National Historic Landmark.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting New England Conservatory>

Academics

New England Conservatory offers elite training in music performance, composition, conducting, jazz, and contemporary improvisation. Undergraduates and graduates pursue degrees with rigorous studio instruction and ensemble participation. Classes emphasize technical mastery and artistic expression with faculty from major orchestras. Students perform extensively in Jordan Hall and beyond. Dual-degree programs with Harvard and Tufts provide academic breadth. NEC's intensive curriculum prepares graduates for professional careers.

Admission

Admission to NEC is extremely selective with audition requirements. Applications via NEC portal with prescreening and live auditions. Holistic review considers musical talent, academics, and potential. Test-optional policy applies.

Career Outcomes

NEC graduates achieve global success in orchestras, opera, jazz, composition, and education, with alumni in major ensembles worldwide. Career services support auditions, competitions, and professional development. Many students secure positions through performances and faculty connections. Graduates often advance to leading orchestras or teaching roles, empowered by NEC's rigorous training and Boston location.

Campus

NEC's Fenway campus features historic Jordan Hall, practice rooms, studios, and performance venues integrated with Boston's cultural district. Facilities support intensive training with 24-hour access. The campus offers residence halls, dining, and wellness resources. Easy transit connects to downtown. Proximity to Symphony Hall enriches studies. The urban setting immerses students in music while providing focused conservatory environment.

Student Life

NEC fosters a dedicated musical community with intensive rehearsals, performances, and events. Students engage in ensembles, recitals, and masterclasses. Residential life builds connections. Wellness resources support balance amid demanding schedules. The international population enriches collaboration. Boston location offers cultural enrichment while the campus provides focused artistic space.

Graduate Schools

Visiting New England Conservatory