Boston University
Boston University has an acceptance rate of 11.1%, annual tuition of $68,102, average net price of $24,402, and a national rank of #185 (Grade A-), with a 88.7% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 18,248 undergraduates, and median earnings of $83,615 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Boston University is a private nonprofit university in Boston, MA. Students most often pursue Computer Engineering and Computer Science.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 10:1 student-faculty ratio, and 94.7% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 79.4%, roughly 29.5 points higher than typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for motivated learners who want a competitive yet collaborative community and students looking for meaningful faculty access.
Who is Boston University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Boston University graduates 88.7% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 87.4% and keeps 94.7% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Boston University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $68,102 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $19,020 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $2,085 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $86,285 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 19.1% of Boston University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $9,500 to $47,504 depending on family income. Use Boston University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $22,517/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $47,504/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $83,615
- 10-Year Median Earnings $83,238
- Average Years to Graduate 4.3 years
- Average Student Debt $23,250
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 82.2%
- Employment Rate 48.8%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Boston University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Boston University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Boston University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Boston University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: Boston University graduates earn $83,615 median four years after graduation, +38% above the national average. Earnings vary significantly by major—research your field's outcomes.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 690-750
- SAT Math 730-780
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 32-34
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 18,248
- Full-Time Students 98.9%
- Part-Time Students 1.1%
- Retention Rate 94.7%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 88.7%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 87.4%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 10:1
How to Get Into Boston University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Boston University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 11.1%, Boston University is highly selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Boston University's 11.1% acceptance rate makes it highly selective. Strong test scores, GPA, and a well-rounded application are essential. Early application can improve your chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1420 and 1530 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Boston University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Communication and Media Studies, and Economics draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 14.3%
- Communication and Media Studies 8.9%
- Economics 6.2%
- Psychology, General 5.5%
- Computer Science 4.8%
- International Relations and National Security Stud 4.6%
See more majors
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication 4.1%
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 3.8%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Engineering $138,076
- 2. Computer Science $137,182
- 3. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other $116,242
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $112,437
- 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations $102,943
- 6. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $98,562
- 7. Mechanical Engineering $94,926
- 8. Economics $88,959
- 9. Communication and Media Studies $84,361
- 10. Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other $79,591
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Computer Engineering (Master's Degree) $182,771
- 2. Computer Science (Master's Degree) $177,092
- 3. Dentistry (First Professional Degree) $162,482
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Law (First Professional Degree) $155,312
- 5. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $147,297
- 6. Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies (Master's Degree) $139,643
- 7. Information Science/Studies (Master's Degree) $137,506
- 8. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods (Master's Degree) $137,068
- 9. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Master's Degree) $132,173
- 10. Insurance (Master's Degree) $129,588
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Engineering grads earn $138,076—73% more than Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other ($79,591). Graduate: Computer Engineering programs lead with $182,771 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Boston University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 691 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 428 graduates)
- Economics (Bachelor's Degree, 300 graduates)
- Public Health (Master's Degree, 297 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 264 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (71 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Communication and Media Studies
- Economics
- Psychology, General
- Computer Science
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Political Science and Government
- Mathematics
- Journalism
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Computer Engineering
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- English Language and Literature, General
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Sociology
- Philosophy
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- History
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Music
- Chemistry
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Social Sciences, Other
- Design and Applied Arts
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Physics
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Nutrition Sciences
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
- Anthropology
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Architectural History and Criticism
- Special Education and Teaching
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Archeology
- Education, Other
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Slavic, Baltic and Albanian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education
- Visual and Performing Arts, General
- Social Work
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Geography and Cartography
- Engineering, General
- Education, General
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Applied Mathematics
Online Master's Degrees (91 programs)▼
- Public Health
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Economics
- Applied Mathematics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Statistics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Music
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Special Education and Teaching
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Security Science and Technology
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Materials Engineering
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Health/Medical Preparatory Programs
- Psychology, General
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Nutrition Sciences
- Systems Science and Theory
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning
- Design and Applied Arts
- Communication and Media Studies
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
- Systems Engineering
- Culinary Arts and Related Services
- Biotechnology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Biology, General
- Public Administration
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- History
- Historic Preservation and Conservation
- Computer Engineering
- Archeology
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Sociology
- Social Sciences, General
- Religious/Sacred Music
- Philosophy
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Area Studies
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Education, General
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Taxation
- Public Policy Analysis
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
Online Doctoral Degrees (61 programs)▼
- Music
- Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Economics
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Physics
- Psychology, General
- Systems Engineering
- Computer Science
- Biology, General
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Philosophy
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- History
- Special Education and Teaching
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Mathematics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Anthropology
- Sociology
- Social Work
- Political Science and Government
- Materials Engineering
- English Language and Literature, General
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- Computer Engineering
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Area Studies
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Public Health
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Applied Mathematics
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Molecular Medicine
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Geography and Cartography
- Genetics
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Research and Experimental Psychology
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Nutrition Sciences
- English Language and Literature/Letters, Other
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Archeology
- Statistics
- Social Sciences, General
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies
- Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Education, General
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (8 programs)▼
- Advanced/Graduate Dentistry and Oral Sciences
- Music
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Special Education and Teaching
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (38 programs)▼
- Social Sciences, Other
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Visual and Performing Arts, Other
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other
- Public Health
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Marketing
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Legal Professions and Studies, Other
- Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians
- Area Studies
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Medical Illustration and Informatics
- Mathematics and Statistics, Other
- Education, Other
- Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Computer Engineering
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Social Work
- Music
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Public Administration and Social Service Professions, Other
- Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Engineering, Other
- Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)▼
- Law
- Dentistry
- Medicine
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 18,248
- Full-Time Students 98.9%
- Part-Time Students 1.1%
- Male Students 41.9%
- Female Students 58.1%
- Caucasian 32.2%
- Asian 20.5%
- Hispanic 11.5%
- Black 5.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 19.1%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Boston University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Boston University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Boston University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Boston University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Boston University has a diverse student body, with 32.2% identifying as White. About 19.1% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Boston University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Boston University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Boston University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 79.4% ROI. Ranked #185 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $24,402 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $83,615 median earnings. With 88.7% graduating within 150% of normal time and 94.7% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Boston University's Positioning
With a A- grade and #185 ranking, Boston University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $24,402 annually, Boston University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 94.7% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $17,081 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 79.4% ROI and $83,615 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $14,402+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Boston University ranks #185 of 1947 institutions, with 562 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 88.7% graduation rate sits 26.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 94.7% first-year retention is 17.9 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- 79.4% return on investment is 29.5 points above the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $83,615 run about 38% higher than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $24,402 is roughly $4,323 higher than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 10:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 94.7% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 48.8% employment rate within three years sits 19.4 points below national outcomes.
- Average net price of $24,402 is about $4,323 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 19.1% trails the national share by 15.3 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Boston, MA, Boston University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a A- from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #185 nationally Category results include Completion (A), Support (A), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (C+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
94.7% of learners come back after year one while 88.7% graduate within 150% of normal time (87.4% within eight years). The reported ROI is 79.4%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $24,402 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $86,285.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $61,883 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $23,250 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 19.1% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $83,615 at the median. That sits about 38% above the national median.
Roughly 48.8% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at 79.4%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
11.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Boston University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Boston University's acceptance rate?
Boston University's acceptance rate is 11.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Boston University cost?
At Boston University, listed tuition and fees are $68,102 per year, and the average net price after aid is $24,402. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Boston University's ranking?
Boston University ranks #185 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Boston University's graduation rate?
At Boston University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 88.7% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 87.4%, and first-year retention is 94.7%.
What are Boston University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Boston University report median earnings of $83,615 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Boston University's student population?
Boston University enrolls about 18,248 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Boston, MA 02215
- Website www.bu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationNew England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Endowment$3.14B