Chances of Getting Into Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts • Private University • #42 National • Founded 1839
BU Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
BU SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Boston University
Boston University is a major private research university located along the Charles River in the heart of Boston. With 17 schools and colleges, BU offers over 300 programs of study and benefits from its urban campus in one of America's greatest college cities — providing students with unmatched internship, cultural, and career opportunities.
Top Programs
What Makes BU Unique
- Urban campus stretching along the Charles River in the heart of Boston
- One of the largest private universities in the country with 18,000+ undergrads
- Strong pre-professional programs in business, communication, and health sciences
- 41% of enrolled students had a 4.0 GPA, 37% had 3.75–3.99 — highly competitive
- Located in Boston — the ultimate college city with access to dozens of partner institutions
BU Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
BU Application Deadlines
How to Get Into BU: Admission Tips
BU offers Early Decision (binding) — apply ED for a meaningful acceptance rate boost (~25%)
Test scores are 'Considered' but not 'Very Important' — strong grades and rigor matter more
BU considers 'Level of applicant's interest' — attend info sessions and demonstrate genuine interest
The 'Why BU' essay should reference specific programs, professors, or opportunities in Boston
Class rank is rated 'Important' — being at the top of your class helps significantly
The Brutal Truth About BU Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 11.1% acceptance rate, BU rejected over 71,120 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At BU, having a 3.9 GPA and 1470 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. BU 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 BU genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 11.1%-acceptance-rate basket.
BU Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Boston University?
Boston University has an acceptance rate of 11.1% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 80,000+ applicants, approximately 3,600 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into BU?
The average GPA of admitted students at Boston University is 3.9. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.75, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for BU?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted BU students is 1430–1510. The average SAT score is 1470. For ACT, the range is 32–34 with an average of 33.
Is BU hard to get into?
Yes, Boston University is very selective with an acceptance rate of just 11.1%. 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 BU cost?
Tuition at Boston University is $66,670 per year, with total cost of attendance at $88,775. However, 44% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $45,000+.
What are my chances of getting into BU?
Your chances of getting into Boston University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 11.1% 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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