Is Boston University Academy Right for You? Here’s What to Know

Boston University Academy (BUA) is the only independent high school in New England situated on a university campus, providing students with an academic experience that goes beyond the traditional high school model. Starting in junior year, students can enroll in college courses at Boston University. Over the past five years, BUA students have taken a total of 2,083 university classes. This unique integration of high school and college academics appeals to students who are eager to engage with rigorous coursework and fully explore the resources of a research university.

Academic Model

BUA’s academic experience begins with a foundation in the liberal arts and classical education, emphasizing critical thinking, close reading, and writing. Students in grades nine and ten follow a shared curriculum that includes:

  • English and Classical Literature
  • History and Ancient Civilizations
  • Latin or Ancient Greek (two-year requirement)
  • Biology (9th grade) and Chemistry (10th grade)
  • Math courses ranging from Algebra to Multivariable Calculus
  • Seminar-style courses on research, logic, coding, and entrepreneurship
  • Visual or performing arts
  • Physical education

By grades eleven and twelve, students are prepared to take up to four courses per semester at Boston University for college credit. These may include subjects such as computer science, sociology, economics, or modern languages. Juniors typically take University-level biology and a foreign language, while seniors have more flexibility to explore specialized interests. All students complete a yearlong senior thesis, mentored by both a BUA faculty member and a Boston University professor.

Most graduates earn up to 48 college credits, equivalent to 12 college courses. These credits may be transferable depending on the policies of the college or university students attend after graduation.

Academic Statistics

Academic MetricClass of 2024 Results
Mean SAT Score1492
Mean ACT Score34
National Merit Program Recognition37% of students recognized
National Merit Finalists6
National Merit Semi-Finalists6
National Hispanic Recognition Scholar1

University Partnership

BUA’s direct link to Boston University provides students with:

  • Access to more than 2,000 university courses
  • BU libraries, including Mugar Library with over 5.4 million volumes
  • Research labs, engineering spaces, and fine arts studios
  • The chance to work with university faculty and researchers
  • Opportunities to attend performances, lectures, and symposia

This university partnership gives students early exposure to the demands of higher education while supporting their intellectual growth in a structured high school setting.

Student Life and Community

Boston University Academy offers over 50 clubs and organizations, ranging from debate and robotics to theater and service. Students regularly participate in dances, festivals, and field trips that foster community and creativity.

Student Life OverviewNumbers & Opportunities
Student Clubs and Organizations50+
Sports Teams and Club Sports13 total across fall, winter, spring
Performing Arts OpportunitiesTheater, music, and visual arts

Student Demographics

BUA is committed to building a diverse and inclusive school community. Students come from a wide range of backgrounds, both geographically and culturally.

Demographic BreakdownDetails
Total Students245
Average Class Size12
Student-to-Teacher Ratio10:1
Students of Color (Self-Reported)53%
Cities and Towns Represented47
Languages Spoken at Home30
Multilingual Households37%
Public School Background33%
Independent School Background61%
Parochial School Background5%

Tuition and Financial Aid

Boston University Academy is committed to making its program accessible to qualified students regardless of financial circumstances.

Tuition and Aid (2024–2025)Details
Annual Tuition and Fees$58,508
Students Receiving Financial Aid30%
Average Need-Based Financial Aid Grant$44,550

Campus and Facilities

Located along Commonwealth Avenue in Boston, BUA provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities on and off campus:

  • 20 retail dining options 
  • Boston University’s FitRec center with pools, gyms, and climbing walls
  • Nickerson Field, DeWolfe Boathouse, and Sailing Pavilion
  • Boston University’s libraries 
  • College of Fine Arts at 855 Commonwealth Ave, home to BUA’s main performance spaces and BU’s Schools of Theatre, Music, and Visual Arts

Admissions Process

Admission to BUA is selective, with the school seeking students who are passionate, self-driven, and excited by academic challenges. Prospective applicants must:

  • Complete an inquiry form and register in Ravenna, BUA’s application platform
  • Submit a preliminary application and schedule an interview
  • Attend a virtual info session or in-person tour
  • Take the required standardized tests (SSAT for grades 9–10; PSAT/SAT/ACT for grade 11)
  • Submit teacher recommendations, transcripts, essays, and optional video submissions

BUA welcomes international students applying for grades 9–11, provided at least one parent relocates to Boston. TOEFL scores (minimum 100) are required, and international students may not live in homestays.

Important Dates

DateDetails
August 18Financial Aid Application Opens
August 28Online Application Opens
September 23Information Sessions and Tours Begin
October 6Zoom Interviews Begin
January 15Admission Application Deadline
January 31Financial Aid Application Deadline (New Families)
March 10Admission and Financial Aid Decisions Released
April 10Enrollment Deadline

Boston University Academy offers a distinctive academic experience for students who are curious, motivated, and ready to take on serious intellectual challenges. With a strong foundation in the humanities and the opportunity to take real college courses, students develop as thoughtful readers, clear writers, and confident learners. For families looking for a high school that combines academic depth with access to a leading research university, BUA provides a meaningful and forward-thinking education.

At Ivy Talent, we provide families with the right resources and guidance to make the process easier. Contact us for more information on how to get your child into the ideal school. 

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