Boston University
One Silber Way, Boston, MA 02215
Boston University (BU) is a private research university located in Boston, Massachusetts, and is one of the largest independent universities in the United States. Founded in 1839, BU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across disciplines such as business, engineering, communication, law, medicine, and the arts and sciences. The university is known for its rigorous academics, extensive research opportunities, and vibrant urban campus along the Charles River, which allows students to engage with Boston’s cultural, professional, and scientific communities. BU emphasizes global learning, civic engagement, and experiential education, offering study abroad programs, internships, and research experiences that prepare students for leadership in a diverse, interconnected world. With a large and diverse student body, Boston University fosters an energetic campus life, combining intellectual growth with social and cultural opportunities.
- Research: Member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), reflecting its role as a leading research institution. Boston University
- Student‑Faculty Ratio: About 10:1, supporting interaction with faculty. Boston University
- Athletics: Terriers compete in NCAA Division I. Wikipedia
- University Colors: Scarlet and white. Wikipedia
- Global Reach: Over 300,000 alumni worldwide working in diverse fields.
Key Dates
- August 25, 2025: Official Fall 2025 Graduation Date.
- September 2, 2025: Fall 2025 Classes Begin.
- November 1, 2025: Early Decision I Application Deadline.
- January 5, 2026: Early Decision II and Regular Decision Deadline.
- January 20, 2026: Spring 2026 Classes Begin.
- March 7–15, 2026: Spring Recess (Classes Suspended).
- May 17, 2026: Commencement Weekend.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- GPA: Mid-50% range is 3.8–4.0 (unweighted).
- Test-Optional: BU is test-optional for the 2025–2026 cycle. If submitted, mid-50% scores are 1430–1540 (SAT) or 32–35 (ACT).
- Requirements: 4 years English, 3–4 years Math, 3–4 years Science, 2–3 years History/Social Science, and 2–3 years Foreign Language.
- Documents: Common App or Coalition App, high school transcript, Counselor Recommendation, and one Teacher Evaluation.
Graduate
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 generally required; competitive programs often see 3.5+.
- Materials: Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose, 2–3 Letters of Recommendation, and transcripts. Standardized tests (GRE/GMAT) vary by program (many are currently optional).
| Program Level | Annual Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $91,000.00 - $95,000.00 |
| Graduate | $70,000.00 - $92,000.00 |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- GPA: Mid-50% range is 3.8–4.0 (unweighted).
- Test-Optional: BU is test-optional for the 2025–2026 cycle. If submitted, mid-50% scores are 1430–1540 (SAT) or 32–35 (ACT).
- Requirements: 4 years English, 3–4 years Math, 3–4 years Science, 2–3 years History/Social Science, and 2–3 years Foreign Language.
- Documents: Common App or Coalition App, high school transcript, Counselor Recommendation, and one Teacher Evaluation.
Graduate
- Degree: Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- GPA: Minimum 3.0 generally required; competitive programs often see 3.5+.
- Materials: Resume/CV, Statement of Purpose, 2–3 Letters of Recommendation, and transcripts. Standardized tests (GRE/GMAT) vary by program (many are currently optional).
| Level | Web Page | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | View Programs | — |
| Graduate | View Programs | — |