About

University Type

Private

University Type

US News National rank

43

US News National rank

Average Living Expenses

$85,824

Average Living Expenses

Boston University, USA (BU) is a private research university located in Boston, Massachusetts. Founded in 1839, Boston University is one of the oldest and largest private universities in the United States. It has over 36,000 students from more than 130 countries and offers more than 300 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and special degree programs.

What is the Acceptance Rate of Boston University?

Boston University has an acceptance rate of 14% and it has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1

Click Here: US scholarships for international undergraduates.

Boston University is a member of the Association of American Universities, a group of 65 leading research universities in the United States and Canada. It is also a member of the Ivy League Athletic Conference. Boston University is a research powerhouse, with a faculty of Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim Fellows.

What is the Annual Tuition fee at Boston University?

The annual tuition fee at Boston University is $66,670 or INR 55.67 Lakh for Indian or international students.

What is the Boston University GPA Requirement?

The GPA requirements for Boston University are between 3.8 and 4.0. To be competitive, you should aim for a GPA of 3.8 or higher.

Boston University Ranking is at 93, and its academic strengths include business, law, medicine, engineering, and the arts. The university is also home to several highly ranked research centres, including the Center for Global Health and Development, the Institute for Sustainable Energy, and the Center for the Study of Sport in Society.

BU is a vibrant and diverse community with a strong commitment to academic excellence. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in research, extracurricular activities, and community service.

Top Reasons to Study in the Boston University

Several reasons add to the popularity of international students' demand to study at Boston University, USA. Here are some of the top reasons:

Yocket's Guide: US Fall Intake Guide.

  • Academic excellence

Boston University is a top-ranked university with a rigorous academic program. It offers 300+ undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. The faculty are highly accomplished scholars and researchers, and the students are bright and motivated.

  • Location

Boston is a vibrant city, home to many cultural attractions, such as museums, theatres, and sports teams. It is also a major centre for business, medicine, and technology.

  • Research opportunities

Boston University is a major research university with over $500 million in annual research expenditures. Students have the opportunity to conduct research with faculty members on various topics.

  • Supportive campus community

Boston University has a strong sense of community. Students are supported by faculty, staff, and peers. There are many opportunities for students to get involved on campus, such as clubs, organizations, and sports teams.

These reasons are just a glimpse of what you will get to learn and explore at Boston University. To know more, click here.


Courses

Cost of Studying at Boston University

Average tuition fee

High-end

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5000+ Students

Availed education loan

3000+ Cr

Loan amount sanctioned

100% Free

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$86,363

Average living expenses (Masters)

$85,824

Admissions at The Boston University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

14%

Application Fee

$50 - $150


How to Apply at Boston University

Boston University's academic strengths include business, law, medicine, engineering, and the arts. Here are the steps on how to apply to Boston University as an international student:

  • Start early: The application deadline for Boston is January 1, so it is important to start the process early. This will give you enough time to gather all of the required materials. Missing the admissions deadline can severely affect your chances of admission to Boston University.

Following are the admission deadlines for Boston University undergraduate programs:

Early Decision 1

November 1, 2023

Early Decision 2

January 4, 2024

Following are the admission deadlines for some of the Boston University graduate programs:

M.B.A

Application Deadline For Spring Intake [1 Aug, 2024]

M.S Management Information Systems

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [1 Aug, 2024]

M.Eng Mechanical Engineering

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [1 Jul, 2024]

Application Deadline For Spring Intake [1 Dec, 2023]

M.S Electrical Engineering

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [1 Aug, 2024]

Application Deadline For Spring Intake [1 Dec 2023]

M.S Mathematics Education

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [15 May 2024]

Application Deadline For Spring Intake [15 Sep 2023]

M.S Maritime Archaeology and Conservation

Fall [1 May 2022]

M.Eng Biological and Agricultural Engineering

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [1 Aug 2024]

Application Deadline For Spring Intake [1 Dec 2023]

M.S Toxicology

Final Application Deadline For 2024 Intake [1 Mar 2024]

M.S Architecture

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [15 Dec 2023]

MS Biotechnology

Application Deadline For Fall Intake [1 Aug 2024]

Application Deadline For Spring Intake[1 Dec 2023]

Meet the eligibility requirements: Boston University acceptance rate is low, therefore students must meet several eligibility requirements for international students. 

  • You must have completed a rigorous secondary school education.
  • You must have a GPA of 3.8 or above.
  • You must have taken the SAT or ACT standardized tests.
  • You must also submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

Gather the required materials: Materials required for your Boston University application include:

  • An application form.
  • Unofficial transcripts from your secondary school, and school report.
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Standardised scores
  • English proficiency test scores
  • Submit your application: Boston University accepts the Common Application or the Coalition Application.
  • Submit your application fee: The Boston application fee is $95 (INR 7,887). Fee waivers are granted for eligible students.
  • Attend an interview, and wait for a decision.

Documents Required to Apply to Boston University

International students will need many documents to apply to Boston University, such as

Undergraduate Programs:

Document

Descriptions

High School Transcripts

Official transcripts from all high schools attended. Aggregate GPA of 3.25.

Standardized Test Scores

SAT or ACT scores and/or TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores for non-native English speakers.

Portfolios and Auditions

For art courses.

Interview

Interviews are not mandatory, but highly encouraged.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $80 (INR 6,632)

Graduate Programs:

Document

Description

Bachelor's Degree Transcripts

Official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended.

Standardized Scores.

GRE OR GMAT scores depending on the program. Submit TOEFL and IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.

Letter of Recommendation

From academic or professional references.

Resume or CV

Detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting relevant academic and work experience.

Statement of Purpose

Essay outlining the student's academic and professional goals and how the program aligns with them.

Application Fee

Non-refundable application fee of $95 - $125 (INR 7,875 - 10,340).


Exams Accepted By Boston University

Boston University accepts the following English proficiency and standardized test scores from international applicants:

Exams

Minimum Required Score

International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

7.0

Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

84

Duolingo English Test (DET)

110

GMAT

650

GRE

152-163 

SAT

1360

ACT

31


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Rankings for The Boston University

US News Ranking

#43

US News National rank

The World University Rankings

#78

The World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

#108

QS World University Rankings


More rankings for this university

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Students Boston University

1,178

Yocketers applied

897

Yocketers admitted

5,330

Yocketers interested


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International Students

% of international students in the university

27

Total International Students in the university

10000


Alumni at Boston University

If you wish to know who are Boston University alumni, know that there are 350,000 living alumni of BU. Some of its notable alumni include:

  • Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights leader.
  • Bonnie Hammer, chairwoman of NBCUniversal.
  • Bill O'Reilly, journalist.
  • Jhumpa Lahiri is an Indian-American author who has won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction.
  • Marc Maron, stand-up comedian.
  • Julianne Moore, actress.
  • Aaron Sorkin, playwright and screenwriter.
  • Uzo Aduba, actress.
  • Shane McMahon, entrepreneur.
  • Kim Raver, actress.
  • Steven Pinker, cognitive psychologist.

Just like these exceptional people, you can too become part of Boston University’s alumni association, by fulfilling your dream of studying there through Yocket’s assistance!

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Related Discussion for the Universities

Ask, post and discuss!

Have a question? Ask and discuss with your fellow aspirants!

Shaiv Patel
Shaiv Patel

10 months ago

Anyone going for Boston university or Northern?
LikeCount 2 Likes
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Prudhvi Raju
Prudhvi Raju

2 years ago

Which university is better for pursuing MSBA? Gies at UIUC or Questrom at BU? Considering that BU is expensive than UIUC
LikeCount Like
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Srishti Jain
Srishti Jain

2 years ago

1. Stevens location (job perspective) > BU location 2. BU Acceptance rate is lower than Stevens
LikeCount 1 Like
CommentButton 3 Comments
Yash Bhalla
Yash Bhalla

2 years ago

Overall best one? Boston University (MS CS) vs University of Florida (MS CS)
Got acceptance from both BU and UF, need to choose the best one with regards to the course structure, living expenses, fees etc. #applicationprocess #bu #uf #ufl #universityselection
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Srujana Batchu
Srujana Batchu

2 years ago

Kira Assessment Advice BU
Hi, I'm looking for some guidance with the Kira video interview test for the BU MS MFT application. Has anyone finished the assessment? Want to understand the kind of questions asked.
LikeCount Like
CommentButton 1 Comment

Reviews for Boston University

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
3

Campus locations
Massachusetts

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Transportation in the city

The best way to get around Boston is by public transportation. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), also known as the "T" is a great way to get around quickly and cheaply, and it can take you to all the major attractions in Boston.

Here are some of the most popular MBTA services:

  • Subway: The subway is the fastest way to get around Boston. There are five subway lines: the Red Line, Orange Line, Blue Line, Green Line, and the Mattapan Trolley.
  • Bus: The bus system is extensive and can take you to many parts of the city that the subway does not reach. There are 170+ bus routes in Boston.
  • Commuter Rail: The commuter rail is a regional rail system connecting Boston to the suburbs. There are 137 commuter rail stations in the Greater Boston area.
  • Ferry: The ferry system provides commuter service to the north and south shores of Boston. Several ferries offer sightseeing tours of Boston Harbor.

Services offered by the university

Boston University, a world-renowned institution offers a wide range of services to its students, faculty, and staff. Some of the most common services include:

  • Student Health Services

This department provides comprehensive medical care to all full-time students, including primary care, mental health services, and reproductive health services.

  • Libraries

Boston University has 10 libraries with a collection of over 3 million volumes. The libraries also offer research assistance, interlibrary loan, and computer access.

  • Computer Services

Boston University's Information Technology Services (IS&T) department provides varied computing services, including desktop support, wireless networking, and printing.

  • Financial Aid

Boston University's Financial Aid Office helps students apply for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

  • Career Services

Boston University's Career Services Office helps students with their career planning, including resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search assistance.

All these are some basic services provided by Boston University. But there are also some special services offered for international students, the disabled, and individuals belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.


Student life at Boston University

With an array of activities, clubs, and cultural events offered by Boston, you are sure to feel involved. Let us look at the factors that contribute to the vibrancy of the student life at Boston University:

  • Student life at Boston University is vibrant and diverse. There are over 500 student clubs and organizations, so there is something for everyone. Students can get involved in everything from sports to arts to activism.
  • The university also has a strong sense of community. Students are encouraged to get to know their professors and classmates outside of the classroom. There are many opportunities for students to collaborate on research projects, participate in service learning, and attend cultural events.
  • Boston University is located in the heart of Boston, so students have easy access to all that the city offers. They can take a walk through the Public Garden, catch a show at the Boston Symphony Orchestra, or cheer on the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park.

These are just a few factors that make Boston University’s student life so happening. If you go there, you will feel involved and get various opportunities to shine as an individual.


On campus accomodation at Boston University

Boston University offers various on-campus housing options for all students.

Undergraduate Housing

  • Large Traditional-Style Residences: These dormitories are home to hundreds of students and offer several amenities, including laundry facilities, study lounges, and dining halls. Some popular options include Warren Towers, West Campus, and Myles Standish Hall.
  • Small Traditional-Style Residences: These dormitories are smaller than the large traditional-style residences and offer a more intimate living experience. Some popular small traditional-style residences include Claflin House and Hemenway Hall.
  • Apartment-Style Residences: These residences offer more privacy and space than the traditional-style dormitories, usually offering two or four bedrooms and a shared bathroom. Some popular apartment-style residences include The Village and The Fenway.
  • Living-Learning & Specialty Communities: Boston University also offers living-learning and specialty communities, catering to students with specific interests or goals. For example, there are communities for students interested in sustainability, STEM, and the arts.

Graduate Housing

  • Graduate Residences: Boston University offers various graduate residences, including traditional-style dormitories, apartment-style units, and townhouses. Some popular graduate residences include Bay State Road Apartments, 775 Commonwealth Avenue, and The Village.

Housing Costs: The cost of a single room in a large traditional-style residence is about $10,000 per year, while for an apartment-style unit is about $12,000 per year. (INR 8,30,220 - 9,96,264).

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Faculty Information

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FAQ

1. Is Boston University Ivy League?

Yes, Boston University is a part of the Ivy League colleges in the US.

2. Who are the Boston University notable alumni?

Boston University's notable alumni include -

  • David Edgerton - Founder of Burger King
  • Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Civil Rights Leader
  • Howard Stern - Radio and TV Personality
  • Geena Davis - Actress and Activist
  • Jhumpa Lahiri - Author

3. What is the Boston University Acceptance rate for International Students?

According to 2024 admissions, the Boston University acceptance rate for international students is 19% only.

4. What are the Boston University fees for Indian students?

Ans. Boston university cost of attendance is higher for international students. Boston University fees for Indian students per year are mentioned below -

Tuition - USD 61,050 (INR 50.4 Lacs)
Accommodation - USD 11,260 (INR 9.3 Lacs)
Meals - USD 6,140 (INR 5 Lacs)
Books and Supplies - USD 1,000 (INR 82,717)

5. What are the eligibility criteria for Boston University?

To gain admission to Boston University, applicants must have a strong GPA and a record of extracurricular activities, alongside the required documents that vary program-wise. Indian students must provide the English language test scores, to portray English proficiency.

6. What is the cost of attendance at Boston University for international students?

The cost of attendance at Boston University for international students is $86,363 (INR 71,70,028).

7. How many Indian students are at Boston University?

According to College Factual, there are approximately 703 Indian students at Boston University. This makes up about 2.1% of the total student body. Boston University is ranked 49th out of a total of 999 colleges and universities for sheer popularity with students from India.