About
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?
The acceptance rate of Boston University is 10.8%, indicating that approximately 11 out of every 100 applicants are admitted. In other words, this indicates that the university's selection policy is highly competitive, giving only highly qualified applicants a chance of admission to Boston University, and it has a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1
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 ranges from $66,670 to $69,870 (approx. INR 55.7 Lakh to INR 58 Lakh) per year for Indian or international students.
The tuition fee in the Boston University fee structure is a key component that includes additional expenses such as accommodation, health insurance, transportation, meals, and personal costs.
Let’s take a look at the tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs at BU.
|
Course level |
BU Annual Tuition Fee (Per Year) |
|---|---|
|
Undergraduate |
$69,870 (estimated) ≈ INR 58 Lakh – this is the 2025–26 tuition estimate; actual billed tuition for 2024–25 was $66,670 |
|
Postgraduate |
$66,670 (MBA example) ≈ INR 55.7 Lakh – based on the 2024–25 full-time MBA tuition; general graduate tuition aligns with this range |
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:
Ashiraj's Guide: US Fall Intake Guide.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Admissions
Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)
11%
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 |
Campus Life
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:
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Student Health Services
This department provides comprehensive medical care to all full-time students, including primary care, mental health services, and reproductive health services.
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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).
Faculty
University Faculty:Student Ratio
University Faculty Stats
Boston University has a vast faculty, and some of its stats are:
- There are a total of 4,187 faculty members at Boston University.
- The student-to-faculty ratio is 11:1.
- The average faculty salary is $125,000 (INR 1,03,77,750).
- The most common faculty ranks are Professor (39%), Associate Professor (29%), and Assistant Professor (23%).
- The majority of faculty members (63%) are full-time.
- The most common departments are Business (28%), Education (13%), and Arts & Sciences (12%).
Career Opportunities
University Endowments Value
Internship opportunities at Boston University
Students can avail of various internships/ part-time jobs during their course, some of which are:
- On-campus jobs are available in several departments and offices, such as the library, dining services, the bookstore, and the recreation centre. These jobs usually involve customer service, clerical work, or food service. On-campus jobs are a great way to get experience in your field of study and to meet other students.
- Off-campus jobs are available in the greater Boston area. These jobs can be found through the Student Job Service, which is a free online job board. It lists both paid and unpaid internships, as well as part-time jobs.
- International students are eligible to work on-campus during the academic year, and they may also be eligible to work off-campus during the summer. However, the specific eligibility requirements vary depending on the student's immigration status. International students should contact the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) for more information about their work authorization options.
Working can be elemental, especially for international students. Through the array of opportunities offered by Boston, you will surely find internships or part-time jobs offered on campus and in the surrounding community.
Placement of Boston University
Placement: According to Boston University's Center for Career Development, 94% of recent graduates found employment or placement in graduate programs, military service, and fellowships within six months of graduation.
Hiring Companies: Some of the top employers for Boston University graduates include
- Boston Consulting Group
- Goldman Sachs
- McKinsey & Company
- Morgan Stanley
- PwC
- Bain & Company
- Deloitte
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Amazon
Salaries: The average starting salary for Boston University graduates is $60,000 (INR 49,81,320).
Photo Gallery
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Last updated August 14, 2026