How to Get Into Boston College

Boston College is a Jesuit university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, that combines rigorous academics with a strong focus on character, leadership, and service. Students are drawn to Boston College for its thoughtful approach to education, one that encourages intellectual exploration alongside personal and ethical growth.  With a wide range of academic programs and a strong track record of student outcomes, Boston College stands out as a place where students are prepared for careers and meaningful lives. Here’s what to know about admissions, financial aid, student life, and life after graduation.

Admissions at a Glance

Boston College evaluates application holistically, reviewing academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays. 

Category Details
Total Applications 35,487
Students Enrolled 2,394
Acceptance Rate 15.9%
Average ACT/SAT (2028) ACT 34 / SAT 1511
Undergraduate Students 9,532
Gender  53% Female / 47% Male
U.S. News Rank #37
Student Body and Diversity

Boston College welcomes students from a wide range of geographic regions and cultural backgrounds. Here’s how the Class of 2028 breaks down:

Region % of Students
New England 29.6%
Mid-Atlantic 30.9%
Midwest 8.2%
South/Southwest 10.9%
West 10.4%
Other U.S. 1%
International 9%

Top 10 countries represented: China, South Korea, Canada, Hong Kong, Brazil, Singapore, Taiwan, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, India

Cost of Attendance

Understanding the financial commitment is a key part of the college decision process. For students entering Boston College, the direct costs include tuition, housing, food, and mandatory fees. These expenses represent the basic budget needed to attend BC for one academic year. Below is a breakdown of the primary costs for first-year students:

Cost Type Total
Tuition $72,180
Housing and Food $19,290
Fees $2,044
Total $93,514
Life on Campus

Life at Boston College extends well beyond academics, offering students a vibrant campus experience that supports personal growth and community engagement. With 35 residence halls and a variety of dining options, students enjoy comfortable living arrangements. The university also prioritizes health and wellness through resources like the Center for Student Wellness, University Counseling, and Health Services, which together see over 20,000 undergraduate visits annually. For those looking to get involved, BC has more than 300 clubs and organizations covering interests from arts and culture to faith and leadership, ensuring every student can find their place and thrive.

Life After Graduation 

Boston College graduates have a strong record of success in employment, graduate study, and fellowships. The Class of 2024 outcomes highlight the value of a BC education and the support systems available to students.

Status % of Graduates
Employed 74%
Enrolled in Graduate School 17%
Service or Fellowship Programs 3%
Overall Placement Rate 95%
Median Starting Salary (2023) $71,000
Top Industries for Employment:
  • Financial Services & Real Estate (29%)
  • Healthcare & Sciences (22%)
  • Consulting & Entrepreneurship (15%)
  • Technology & Engineering (10%)
  • Government, Law & Public Policy (6%)

Frequent Employers:
Bain & Company, PwC, Liberty Mutual, McKinsey & Company, Epic, Bank of America, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, NYU Langone Health, and many others.

Graduate Programs Most Attended: Duke, Boston University, Chicago

Campus Involvement:
Activity Participation Rate
Internships 84%
Volunteer Service 73%
Student Organization Leadership 73%
On-Campus Employment 67%
Application Deadlines 

Boston College offers three primary application plans: Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision. All applicants are evaluated using the same criteria, but Early Decision is binding and best suited for students who are confident BC is their first choice.

Application Plan Deadline Decision Notification
Early Decision I November 1 By December 15
Early Decision II January 2 By February 15
Regular Decision January 2 By April 1
Spring Freshman* November 1 By December 15

From its competitive admissions process to its diverse student body and high post-grad placement rate, Boston College appeals to students who want to be challenged both in and outside the classroom. With dedicated faculty, a wide range of majors, and a strong emphasis on reflection and service, the university prepares students to make a real impact in their fields and communities.

If you’re planning on applying to Boston College or schools with similar levels of selectivity, it’s important to approach the process with a clear strategy. At Ivy Talent Education, we help students understand what top schools are really looking for and guide them through every step of the application journey. From shaping your college list to editing essays and preparing for interviews, our team offers the insight and support you need to apply with confidence. Reach out to us to learn how we can help you take the next step toward your academic goals.

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