Access at BU

We are proud to collaborate with a wide network of partners across the country to support students who may not typically be reached through our standard admissions process. These students gain access to valuable resources, including scholarships, financial aid, and mentorship, often through Boston University’s College Access & Student Success (CASS) office. Many of our partnership students join in cohorts, forming a close-knit community of peer support and encouragement. Our Admissions staff works to nurture and strengthen these meaningful relationships each year. 

QuestBridge Scholars

Boston University is a proud partner of QuestBridge, a national nonprofit organization that connects high-achieving, low-income students with leading colleges and universities. Through this partnership, BU offers full scholarships and comprehensive support to QuestBridge Scholars, helping them succeed by providing resources, guidance, and community through the QuestBridge network. QuestBridge offers a valuable pathway for talented students from diverse backgrounds to access top-tier education and thrive both academically and personally. QuestBridge Scholars are connected with the College Access and Student Success (CASS) team, paired with a mentor, and receive ongoing support from the QuestBridge program.

Posse Scholars

Boston University is proud to partner with the Posse Foundation, a national organization that identifies talented high school students with exceptional leadership potential who may be overlooked by traditional college admissions processes. Through this partnership, BU brings groups of 10 students, or “posses,” to campus from Posse’s Atlanta and San Francisco locations. These students are provided with a supportive, tight-knit community that helps them succeed academically and socially. Each Posse Scholar receives a full-tuition scholarship and is paired with a dedicated mentor to guide them throughout their time at BU. The Posse Program fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, ensuring that students thrive in their academic, social, and leadership development.

Other Partnerships

BPS Community Service Scholars

Boston University proudly supports Boston Public Schools (BPS) graduates by offering full financial aid, mentorship, and the opportunity to give back through 25 hours of community service each semester, with one semester focused on BPS. BU has partnered with BPS since 2005. 

Menino Scholars

The Menino Scholars Program at Boston University provides up to 25 full-tuition merit scholarships each year to graduates of Boston Public High Schools. Named in honor of former Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino, this scholarship aims to recognize the academic potential and leadership abilities of outstanding local students. In addition to full financial support, Menino Scholars receive personalized mentorship throughout their college experience, helping them navigate the transition to university life and ensuring their continued success. The program also offers a one-week residential orientation before the start of the academic year, creating a strong foundation for academic, social, and personal growth at BU. 

Chicago Scholars

Boston University is proud to be a Platinum Partner with the Chicago Scholars Foundation, an organization that supports academically driven, first-generation college students from underserved communities in Chicago. Each year, the Foundation assists over 3,000 Scholars and Alumni through a comprehensive seven-year program focused on college access, college success, and career mentorship. As a Platinum Partner, BU is committed to meeting 100% of the demonstrated financial need for Chicago Scholars through graduation. In addition, BU sponsors a campus visit for admitted Scholars prior to enrollment and provides a dedicated on-campus mentor to support them throughout their college journey.

Philadelphia Scholars

Boston University is excited to work with select Philadelphia high schools to provide high-achieving students with the guidance, mentorship, and support they need to thrive at BU. BU has partnered with Philadelphia Scholars since 2008. 

Hayden Foundation Scholars

Boston University is a proud partner of the Charles Hayden Foundation, which supports students in New York City and Boston. The Foundation focuses on empowering youth from underserved communities to reach their full potential. BU collaborates with high schools supported by the Hayden Foundation, starting with students in their sophomore year who are in the top 10% of their class. Hayden Scholars are paired with mentors and have opportunities to visit campus, helping them build a strong sense of community and support at BU.

IDEA Scholars

In partnership with IDEA Public Schools, Boston University is thrilled to support high-achieving students from The Rio Grande Valley area, offering mentorship and resources to help them succeed in college and beyond. BU has partnered with IDEA Scholars since 2015.

Impact Scholars

Boston University is proud to partner with the IMPACT Program, which was launched in 2006 to support YES Prep graduates in their college journey. With over 90% of YES Prep’s graduating seniors being first-generation and college-bound, these students face unique challenges as they transition to higher education. The IMPACT Program addresses these challenges by providing strong emotional and academic support, alongside access to financial aid, significantly boosting their chances of persistence and success in college. Since its inception, 84% of IMPACT Scholars have either graduated from or are currently enrolled in their original IMPACT Partner or Affiliate institution, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in fostering long-term academic achievement and success. 

College Horizons

Boston University partners with College Horizons, a nationwide program that helps Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian high school sophomores and juniors prepare for higher education. Through collaborations with various institutions, College Horizons provides college advising that honors Native cultures, focusing on admissions and financial aid. The program offers summer “crash courses” to guide students through the application process, explore college options, and build essential skills for success. BU’s partnership with College Horizons aims to empower Native students and increase their representation on campus.