What to Know About Boston University Before Applying

Boston University (BU) has long been a top choice for students seeking a rigorous academic experience in the heart of Boston. Its highly competitive admissions process reflects its reputation for excellence. In the most recent admissions cycle, BU received 78,750 applications, and admitted 3,268 applicants. This low acceptance rate places BU among the most selective private universities in the country. For applicants, understanding the admissions landscape is an important first step in preparing a strong and strategic application. 

BU’s Selectivity 

​The students admitted to BU typically have impressive academic profiles. The average SAT score ranges from 1430 to 1510, and ACT scores fall between 32 and 34. While standardized testing is considered, it is not required, and only 28% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while 10% submitted ACT scores. BU evaluates applicants holistically, taking into account academic performance, rigor of coursework, recommendations, essays, and extracurricular activities. 

Here’s what BU officially requires: 

• High school GPA: Required 
• High school transcript: Required 
• High school transcript: Required 
• College prep courses: Required 
• Recommendations: Required
• Video submission: Optional 
• SAT/ACT scores: Considered but not required 

Application Deadlines 

BU offers an Early Decision option for students who are confident that BU is their top choice. This route may offer a better chance of admission, with an Early Decision acceptance rate of 26-34%. However, it’s important to remember that Early Decision is binding, so students should apply only if they are ready to commit. 

Deadlines include:

• November 1: Early Decision application and CSS Profile deadline
• January 6: Regular Decision and Early Decision 2 application deadline
• January 6: FAFSA and CSS Profile deadline for Regular Decision and Early Decision 2

BU does not offer an Early Action option.

Application Information:

• Application fee: $80
• Application website: https://www.bu.edu/admissions/apply/
• Accepts Common App: Yes 

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid

Boston University’s total cost of attendance is approximately $94,427 per year, which includes:

• Tuition: $69,870
• Housing: $12,790
• Food: $7,180
• Fees: $1,502
• Other expenses: $3,085

While the cost may seem high, BU offers financial aid packages designed to make the university more accessible to qualified students.

Through afforableBU, Boston University commits to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted first-time U.S. students and permanent residents. This means BU will cover the gap between the cost of attendance and what a family can reasonably afford. To be eligible, students must submit both the FAFSA and CSS Profile by the appropriate deadlines. 

To be considered for BU’s need-based aid, students must submit both the CSS Profile and FAFSA by the following deadlines:

• November 1: Early Decision and CSS Profile deadline
• January 6: FAFSA deadline for Early Decision and Early Decision 2
• January 6: Application and CSS Profile deadline for Decision 2 and Regular Decision

Eligibility for BU need-based scholarship aid is determined during the first year based on these submissions. After that, students only need to submit the FAFSA annually, BU does not require the CSS Profile after the first year.  

In addition to need-based financial aid, BU also offers a variety of merit scholarships, including some that cover full tuition. Students who receive need-based aid are also covered by BU Scholarship Assurance, which guarantees aid for all four years, provided academic and application requirements are met. 

What This Means For Students 

Boston University’s selective admissions process reflects the high level of academic and extracurricular achievement expected from its students. However, applicants should remember that numbers only tell part of the story. BU is looking for engaged, thoughtful, and motivated individuals who are ready to contribute to their campus and take full advantage of everything the university has to offer. 

A successful application to BU involves careful planning, strong academic performance, compelling essays, and a clear sense of purpose. For students who are prepared and passionate, BU can offer not only an exceptional education but also the resources and support to thrive both personally and professionally.

At Ivy Talent, we guide students and families through every step of the college admission process. Let us help make this easier for you and your family.