Boston University (BU) is located in Boston City, Massachusetts. Established in 1839 and initially known as the "Newbury Biblical Institute," BU has grown expansively to encompass a diverse campus spread over 140 acres. The university upholds its academic distinction through accreditation by NEASC-CIHE and affiliations with AICUM. BU is dedicated to providing exceptional education to its students. The university supports many academic initiatives and programs with an impressive endowment of $3 billion. The student body at BU is substantial, with a total enrollment of approximately 36,729 students in 2022. Among them, 17,590 are undergraduates, while 17,937 are graduates and professional students from diverse disciplines. As a space-grant institution, BU fosters innovation and exploration without limitations.
Tuition Fee & Cost of Living at Boston University
This section explores the important financial considerations associated with attending Boston University.
Category | Expenses (USD/year) |
Tuition | 63,798 |
Housing | 11,600 |
Food | 6,510 |
Fees | 1,370 |
Books and Supplies | 1,000 |
Personal Expenses | 1,455 |
Local Transportation | 630 |
Other Expenses | 3,085 |
Total Expenses | 86,363 |
The following gives an overview of the postgraduate fees associated with the 2023-2024 academic year (per term):
Category | 9 Months (USD) | 12 Months (USD) |
Tuition | 63,798 | 63,798 |
University Fees | 914 | 914 |
Health Insurance | 3,235 | 3,235 |
Room and Board | 18,110 | 24,901 |
Books and Supplies | 1,251 | 1,251 |
Incidentals | 2,270 | 2,867 |
Total | 89,578 | 96,966 |
Source: https://www.bu.edu/
With many programs to choose from, Boston University emerges as an ideal institution for pursuing academics.
Graduate Programs at Boston University
|
Specialization |
Degree |
Course Duration (Years) |
Yearly Fees (USD) |
|
Administrative Sciences |
Master of Science |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Anthropology |
Master of Arts |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Biomedical Engineering |
Master of Science |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Cognitive & Neural Systems |
Master of Science |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Electrical & Computer Engineering |
Master of Science |
2 |
63,798 |
|
History of Art & Architecture |
Master of Arts |
2 |
63,798 |
|
History |
Master of Arts |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Neuroscience |
Master of Arts |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Remote Sensing & Geospatial Sciences |
Master of Science |
2 |
63,798 |
|
Statistics |
Master of Arts |
2 |
63,798 |
Source: https://www.bu.edu/academics/degree-programs/
*Tuition Fees are subject to change- might vary each year/intake
At BU, students are presented with diverse majors that open doors to endless possibilities. In this section, we delve into some of the prominent majors at BU, shedding light on why they are exceptional.
BU offers abundant research opportunities for students, fostering a culture of exploration and innovation. Students can access various research experiences across various disciplines - from undergraduate research programs to collaborations with renowned faculty.
The BU campus in Boston radiates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, drawing a diverse community of students and visitors. Noteworthy aspects of BU include:
Boston University's Department of Athletics boasts an impressive roster of approximately 600 student-athletes. They compete at the highest level of college athletics across 24 NCAA Division I varsity sports. BU's athletic teams have given excellent performances since 2004. They won nearly six conference titles per year and made a remarkable 59 team appearances in NCAA Championships. Notably, the men's ice hockey program has forged a storied legacy, triumphing in the Beanpot tournament on five occasions and securing five national championships.
Discovering like-minded individuals who share your interests is effortless at BU. Here is just a glimpse of the diverse campus organizations available. Visit the Student Activities Office website for a comprehensive list and contact information. And if you don't find your preferred activity, you can even learn how to establish your own organization with as few as four fellow students.
Here are some of the most popular student clubs at Boston University. (1) Anime Club (2) Archaeology Society (3) Art History Association (4) Beekeepers (5) BosTones a Capella Group (6) Curling Club (7) Deaf Studies (8) Club Film Society (9) Habitat for Humanity (10) International Society (11) Knitting Club (12) Marine Science Association
Here are the key deadlines for the applications at Boston University:
The following table details the deadlines for undergrad admissions.
The application process for Boston University is designed as a comprehensive and organized journey, providing step-by-step guidance to prospective applicants. Take a look at the following listicle format outlining the process of applying to BU:

Research the top programs and admission requirements at least a year before taking admission.
Take the required tests (SAT, ACT, GRE, TOEFL/IELTS) well in advance, preferably six months before the application deadline.

Start preparing your documentation early, including transcripts, Statement of Purpose (SOP) or essays, Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and your resume. Request LORs from teachers or mentors at least 2-3 months ahead.
Apply under Early Decision 1 or Early Decision 2 if Boston University is your top-choice school and you're certain you want to attend. At this time, the acceptance rate is higher.

The Regular Admission round has a deadline of January 4 and is the most common application option.
Boston University has specific admission criteria that applicants must meet to be considered for admission. Here are some of the BU requirements:
|
English Language Proficiency Test |
Minimum Score |
|
TOEFL iBT |
84 |
|
IELTS |
7 |
|
Duolingo English Test (DET) |
110 |
source: https://www.bu.edu/summer/international-college-students
This section will explore some of the highlights from BU's notable rankings.
|
Year |
QS Ranking |
Times Higher Education |
US News |
|
2023 |
108 |
71 |
NA |
|
2022 |
112 |
62 |
#41 in National Universities |
|
2021 |
110 |
54 |
NA |
|
2020 |
98 |
61 |
NA |
2023 UNIVERSITY RANKING
2023 UNIVERSITY RANKING
2022 UNIVERSITY RANKING
Below are some notable starting salaries of BU graduates:
|
Major |
Graduate (%) |
Average Annual Salary (USD) |
||
|
Social Sciences |
16% |
53,700 |
||
|
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services |
15% |
62,700 |
||
|
Communication |
Journalism |
and Related Programs |
15% |
49,400 |
|
Biological and Biomedical Sciences |
11% |
50,400 |
||
|
Engineering |
9% |
72,500 |
source: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/boston-university-2130
Boston University provides a range of scholarships to assist students in their academic pursuits and alleviate financial burdens. Here are some of the BU scholarships available for students:
Living on campus at Boston University provides students convenience, a sense of community, and numerous opportunities for a rewarding university experience. Here are some of the top on-campus accommodation options:
|
|
|||
|
Residence Type |
Price (USD/semester) |
Dining Plan (USD/semester) |
Total (USD/semester) |
|
Double, triple, quad room |
11,600 |
6,510 |
18,110 |
|
Multiple-occupancy room |
12,340 |
6,510 |
18,850 |
|
Multiple occupancy room in selected suites |
13,270 |
6,510 |
19,780 |
|
Double room in the suite |
14,650 |
6,510 |
21,160 |
|
Single without private bath |
15,230 |
6,510 |
21,740 |
|
Single room in the suite |
16,790 |
6,510 |
23,300 |
|
Single with private bath |
16,350 |
6,510 |
22,860 |
Apartment Style
|
Apartment with 2-3 students |
15,470 |
- |
15,470 |
|
Single room in apartment |
18,610 |
- |
18,610 |
|
Single room in a 4-person apartment |
20,020 |
- |
20,020 |
|
Single room in a 2-person apartment |
20,650 |
- |
20,650 |
|
Apartment with 1 student |
20,660 |
- |
20,660 |
The average class size at BU is approximately 30 students.
Yes, Boston University provides financial aid options. They offer loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
International students can be considered for need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships at Boston University.