Very Selective15% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into Boston College

Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts Private University • #39 National • Founded 1863

Boston College Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

15%
Acceptance Rate
3.91
Average GPA
1490
Average SAT
34
Average ACT
40,500
Total Applicants
2,350
Class Size
11:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Boston College SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1450–1530
Average1490
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range33–35
Average34
2036

About Boston College

Boston College is a prestigious Jesuit university in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, known for its strong business, nursing, and liberal arts programs. With a 15% acceptance rate, BC offers a vibrant campus life, competitive athletics (ACC member), and a powerful alumni network in finance and consulting.

Top Programs

FinanceEconomicsBiologyComputer ScienceNursing

What Makes Boston College Unique

  • Jesuit tradition emphasizing education of the whole person
  • Carroll School of Management is a top-ranked undergraduate business school
  • Gothic architecture on a stunning hilltop campus 6 miles from downtown Boston
  • Strong alumni network on Wall Street and in consulting
  • Both ED and REA options available for early applicants

Boston College Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$65,108/yr
Total Cost$86,000/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$79,400/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid42%
Avg Aid Package$49,000+
School TypePrivate

Boston College Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
January 2
Early Decision
November 1
ED Acceptance Rate: ~28%
Early Action
November 1
EA Acceptance Rate: ~20%

How to Get Into Boston College: Admission Tips

1

Early Decision acceptance rate is nearly double the regular rate

2

BC values service and community engagement — highlight volunteer work

3

Supplemental essay should show genuine fit with BC's Jesuit mission

4

Test-optional but strong test scores (1450+) are advantageous

5

Demonstrated interest through visits and interviews is tracked

The Brutal Truth About Boston College Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 15% acceptance rate, Boston College rejected over 34,425 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Boston College, having a 3.91 GPA and 1490 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.

The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Boston College doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.

Bottom line: Apply if Boston College genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 15%-acceptance-rate basket.

Boston College Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at Boston College?

Boston College has an acceptance rate of 15% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 40,500 applicants, approximately 2,350 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Boston College?

The average GPA of admitted students at Boston College is 3.91. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.76, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Boston College?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Boston College students is 1450–1530. The average SAT score is 1490. For ACT, the range is 33–35 with an average of 34.

Is Boston College hard to get into?

Yes, Boston College is very selective with an acceptance rate of just 15%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.

How much does Boston College cost?

Tuition at Boston College is $65,108 per year, with total cost of attendance at $86,000. However, 42% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $49,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Boston College?

Your chances of getting into Boston College depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 15% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

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What Are Your Chances at Boston College?

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