Boston University
The Vibe Check
Boston University feels like a bustling, ambitious city within a city. Students are constantly in motion along Commonwealth Avenue, driven by a fast-paced energy that blends academic intensity with the cultural perks of urban life. It's a place where you're surrounded by peers who are engaged, diverse, and always looking for the next opportunity.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
BU is a research powerhouse, offering students unparalleled access to cutting-edge labs and faculty who are leaders in their fields. The curriculum is rigorous and interdisciplinary, with standout programs in business, communications, and the sciences. Teaching quality is high, with a mix of large lecture courses and smaller, more interactive seminars.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Boston
Student life means having the entire city of Boston as your campus and playground. You can spend afternoons studying in the Boston Public Library, catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, exploring the food scene in the North End, or taking a quick train ride to the beaches of Cape Ann. The city's history, sports, and arts scenes are an integral part of the BU experience.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($83,238):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is well-lit and has a visible, 24/7 campus police presence. The surrounding neighborhood is a busy, student-populated area, but as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unbeatable location in a major student city with endless internship and cultural opportunities.
- ✓ Powerful alumni network that provides strong connections for post-graduation jobs.
- ✓ Extensive research opportunities for undergraduates, especially in STEM and business fields.
- ✓ High retention and graduation rates indicate strong student support and satisfaction.
Cons
- ✗ The high cost of tuition and living in an expensive city can lead to significant student debt.
- ✗ Large class sizes in popular introductory courses can feel impersonal.
- ✗ The urban setting means there isn't a traditional 'quadrangle' or secluded college town feel.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Boston University is known for its comprehensive strength as a major research institution with top-tier programs in communications, business, engineering, and the sciences. It is also recognized for its vibrant urban campus, diverse student body, and extensive global study abroad opportunities.
Yes, Boston University is highly selective. With an acceptance rate of just 10.85%, admission is competitive. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1350 and 1500 (with an average of 1473) and a strong high school GPA.
Campus life is fast-paced and energetic. Students are deeply involved in a wide array of clubs, D1 sports, and Greek life. The campus is integrated into the city, so students often study off-campus in Boston's libraries and cafes, and they have easy access to concerts, sports games, and historical sites.
For many students, yes. The combination of a prestigious degree, strong alumni network, and high post-graduation earnings ($83,238 median) provides a solid return on investment. While the sticker price is high, the average net price is significantly lower, making it a valuable option for students who receive financial aid and actively use the university's career services.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1839
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 22,942
- In-State Tuition $65,168
- Zip Code 02215
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $65,000, BU is a significant investment, but the average net price of around $27,000 shows that financial aid can make it much more accessible. The 10-year median earnings of $83,238 for graduates suggest a strong return on investment, especially in fields like business and tech. For students who leverage BU's robust alumni network and career resources, the degree can be worth the cost.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.