Fast Facts & Links
We’ve made it easy for you to find the information parents look for most. Here are some quick facts about BU and links to other key topics. For a printable version of this information, check out our QuickGuide.
| Average SAT: | 1850–2080 |
|---|---|
| Average ACT: | 29 |
| Average GPA: | 3.6 (A-) |
| November 1 | Application and CSS PROFILE deadline for Early Decision applicants |
|---|---|
| December 1 | Application deadline for Accelerated Medical Program, Accelerated Dental Program and New Jersey Medical Program; Trustee Scholarship; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship; and Alexander Graham Bell Scholarship |
| January 1 | Application deadline for regular decision applicants |
| February 15 | Deadline for FAFSA and Regular Decision CSS PROFILE |
See all deadlines and critical dates.
Cost of Attendance
Attending Boston University, like most prestigious universities, requires a significant investment. But you’re not in this alone. We invest in you too. Keep in mind that more than half of all entering freshmen receive some form of financial assistance.
| Tuition | $36,540 |
|---|---|
| Room (depending on type of accommodation) | $7,420 |
| Board (most dining plans) | $3,998 |
| Fees | $510 |
| Total Billed Expenses | $48,468 |
*Tuition and fees are subject to change by action of the Board of Trustees.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Boston University awarded over $150 million in financial aid to undergraduates last year. Over 75% of incoming freshmen receive financial aid.
There are three types of need-based aid your family may qualify for:
- Grants are gift awards funded by BU, the federal government or a state government. They are awarded to degree candidates based on financial need, academic achievement and availability of funds for the chosen program of study. Grants do not have to be repaid.
- Federal Education Loans have lower interest rates than traditional bank loans. They are administered by BU’s Financial Assistance Office.
- Part-Time Employment through a Federal Work-Study program is based on financial need and fund availability. For students who don’t qualify, part-time jobs are also available through the Student Employment Office.
Boston University awarded more than $46 million in merit-based scholarships for the 2008/2009 academic year. There are many different types of awards, most for academic achievement and some for athletic and artistic talent. Scholarships may be renewable for up to three additional years of study if students meet certain conditions.
Important Links
Click on the links below for more information on any of these topics:
- Programs of studyCheck the list of over 250 majors and minors. Learn how students can combine programs of study to earn a dual degree of their choice.
- Curriculum RecommendationsLearn which college prep courses BU recommends for admission.
- Requirements and Standards ChartSee the standardized tests and other requirements for applying to each school and college within the University.
- Application InformationReview the complete process for freshmen, transfer and international students.
- Advanced Credit (AP, IB, GCE/A-Level)Get information on eligibility and requirements.
- College of Fine Arts Auditions and Portfolio RequirementsOnly the School of Music, School of Theatre and School of Visual Arts require these as part of the application process.
- Athletic Recruitment ProcessFind out what your student must do to try out for a sport at BU.
Admission Criteria
Parents can play a role in helping their children make realistic choices, both financially and academically. While it’s important to note that Boston University is a highly competitive and selective school, we do look at each student as a whole. No single factor will make or break your child’s application. Overall, we look for achievers who will succeed academically and thrive in our community—a diverse mix of students with a wide variety of interests, talents and goals.
Here are the factors we consider:
- High school performance
- Standardized test scores
- Teacher and counselor recommendations
- Other personal qualifications
- Application essay
See a full description of our admission criteria.
BU Campus & Resources
- Student housingBU freshmen are required to live on campus. Learn about our student residences and dining facilities.
- Campus securityRead about our award-winning safety program.
- Activities, clubs and sportsBU students belong to nearly 500 campus groups. Check out the diverse list, as well as sports and fitness opportunities.
- Academic advisingAcademic advising is handled primarily by each individual school or college. BU also has a Pre-Professional Advising Office to assist students interested in pursuing law or the health professions.
- Career placementCareer resources are available everywhere on campus, providing students with a multitude of opportunities for charting their future career paths.