How To Get Into Boston University

You might be wondering, what’s the “right” amount of challenging classes for your child to take? Surely, you don’t want them to be overwhelmed and earn poor grades or be forced to drop their meaningful extracurricular activities. There is a balance you should aim for—take the number of classes that will stretch your child to the limits of their ability without being more than they can handle.

How to Get Into Boston University: Requirements and Strategies

Explore the Boston University acceptance rate and admission requirements, plus a sample BU essay

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Boston University admissions requirements

Part 3: Applying to Boston University early decision vs. regular decision

Part 4: 2023–2024 Boston University supplemental essays

Part 1: Introduction

If your child would like to attend a world-class, private research university in a history-filled city on the East Coast, Boston University should be at the top of their list. Founded in 1839, Boston University offers over 300 academic programs, top undergraduate research opportunities, and prestigious global recognition.

The faculty, staff, and students of Boston University hail from 50 states and over 150 countries, but all share a common passion to pursue knowledge and embrace possibilities. Aligning with its international focus, BU provides more than 80 study abroad opportunities to its students, encouraging them to embrace other cultures and become global citizens.

In the classroom, BU students are taught by Nobel Prize winners, Guggenheim Fellows, Fulbright Scholars, and Sloan Research Fellows. With class sizes averaging only 30 students, undergraduates have opportunities to take active roles in their education and develop mentorships with their accomplished professors.

On any given day, Boston University students pursue their interests in courses like “Magic, Science, and Religion”—part of the general education curriculum known as the BU Hub. Outside of classes, students gather at many different spots around campus, including the Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground.

With over 450 student groups available, the sky’s the limit when it comes to engaging in the campus community—students can pursue anything from competing in broomball leagues to delivering art education to local students. And while there’s plenty to explore in the city, Boston University has many unique on-campus traditions for students to enjoy—such as Lobster Night and the BU Pumpkin Drop.

And after Boston University? Graduates join an alumni network containing over 400,000 members spread throughout 180 different countries. Alumni hold positions in nearly every industry—you can find Boston Terriers in roles as magazine editors, state governors, Fortune 500 CEOs and CFOs, U.S. ambassadors, and award-winning actors and actresses. With a network this expansive to support them, it’s no surprise that 94 percent of Boston grads find employment or enroll in a graduate program within six months of earning their degree.

Boston University is a premier educational institution that attracts over 80,000 applicants every year. With so many high-achieving students applying to BU, you understand why your child is eager to learn how to get into Boston University. Continue reading to discover the Boston University acceptance rate, the Boston University average GPA, and how your child can boost their BU admissions odds.

Boston University rankings

• Forbes: 48
• Niche: 38
• U.S. News & World Report: 41
• Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education: 30

Where is Boston University located?

Boston University is located in the heart of—you guessed it—Boston, Massachusetts. This iconic city, known as “the birthplace of the American Revolution,” offers students the chance to revisit and appreciate our nation’s history. But Boston is unique for its duality—not only does it remind us of the past, but it also leads us into the future through innovation and education. With Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Boston University located within a few miles of each other, Boston is one of the premier research cities in the country.

Boston boasts a number of special attractions that captivate tourists and locals alike—including the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the JFK Presidential Library and Museum. Fortunately for students, Boston is a pedestrian- and bicyclist-friendly city that encourages exploration and adventuring—ensuring BU students never find themselves with a shortage of things to do.

Boston University setting

Boston University’s campus spans 169 acres along the Charles River, just slightly west of Boston’s city center. Just by walking to the edge of campus, students can take advantage of Boston’s extensive public transportation system—known commonly as “the T.” After hopping on the subway, every attraction in Boston is easily within reach of this urban campus.

While BU’s campus is relatively small, it is also historic and picturesque. It’s intentionally open to the city, encouraging students to make all of Boston their home. And the city of Boston certainly does not disappoint, offering students diverse cultures, spirited athletic pride, and unmatched local food to enjoy. (Boston baked beans, anyone?)

Several big industries dominate Boston’s economic landscape, including finance, research and development, healthcare, education, publishing, and government. These industries offer BU students unparalleled opportunities for career development, internships, and networking. In fact, 84 percent of students complete at least one internship while at Boston University.

Boston University student population

• Undergraduate population: 17,590 students
• Graduate population: 17,937 students

Boston University acceptance rate

Here are the admissions statistics for BU’s class of 2026:

• Applications: 80,796
• Matriculants: 3,634
• Acceptance rate: 14%

If you’re hoping to transfer to Boston University, know that the transfer acceptance rate in recent years has hovered around 50 percent. For the Fall 2022 entrance, BU received 5,810 transfer applications; 614 of these applicants eventually matriculated.

Boston University tuition and scholarships

Boston University’s 2023–2024 cost of attendance (i.e., tuition, room, board, and fees) runs $86,363.

However, BU promises to meets 100 percent of need for first-year students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Each year, $329.5 million is awarded in undergraduate financial aid, approximately 92 percent of which is need-based.

The average institutional grant totals $48,604.

Boston University freshman retention rate

94 percent of freshmen students continue on to their sophomore year at BU.

Who gets into Boston University?

Beyond knowing the Boston University acceptance rate, the best way for potential applicants to assess their odds of getting accepted is to look at the Boston University admissions statistics for the class of 2025, which reveal that applicants are at the top of their academic game and the competition to get accepted is strong.

When viewing the test scores below, note that 42 percent of admitted students did not submit test scores.

• 84 percent of admitted students rank in the top 10 percent of their high school class.
• Average GPA: 3.9
  • Average GPA range: 3.8–4.0
  • ACT middle 50%: 30–34
  • SAT middle 50%: 1310-1500

  As of Fall 2021, the largest demographic represented among BU undergrads were white students (30%). The next largest racial groups found in the population were Asian Americans (20.3%), Hispanic Americans (11.6%), and Black or African Americans (8%). International students were not counted among these populations.

  The most popular major areas among BU students are business administration and management, communication and media studies, economics, psychology, and computer science.

  Part 2: Boston University admissions requirements

  If your child wants to know how to get into Boston University, a good place to start is by understanding the BU admissions requirements. To find their ideal students, the BU admissions committee closely evaluates applicants’ academics, test scores, and extracurriculars.

  Boston University academic requirements

  With over 80,000 students competing for admission, Boston University has the luxury of selecting applicants with the strongest academic potential. In order to prove your child has what it takes to succeed in BU’s rigorous curriculum and elevate its reputation as a prosperous alumnus, they should take some of the most challenging courses offered at their high school—including dual-enrollment, honors, AP, and IB classes.

  You might be wondering, what’s the “right” amount of challenging classes for your child to take? Surely, you don’t want them to be overwhelmed and earn poor grades or be forced to drop their meaningful extracurricular activities. There is a balance you should aim for—take the number of classes that will stretch your child to the limits of their ability without being more than they can handle.

  When choosing which challenging courses to pursue, your child should prioritize classes relating to their interests and potential career. If they want to go into a STEM field, they don’t need to overburden themselves with AP Literature or AP Spanish courses—unless of course, they have genuine interests in those areas. But in general, Boston would prefer to see AP Chemistry, AP Biology, or AP Calculus from a STEM applicant.

  Boston University testing requirements

  In response to the many test cancellations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Boston University has adopted a temporary test-optional policy for students applying for Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 admission. If applicants were able to take the SAT or ACT exams and their scores accurately reflect their academic ability, they are encouraged to submit them. However, students will not be penalized if they choose not to include SAT or ACT scores with their application through Fall 2025 and Spring 2026.

  Because the average Boston University SAT scores and ACT scores of admitted students are impressively high, we encourage students to take these exams more than once and to study hard in order to maximize their scores. Taking test prep courses or receiving one-on-one tutoring are typically successful methods for students to increase their scores and their admissions odds.

  Boston University extracurricular requirements

  While displaying strong academic skills is an important part of being a competitive BU applicant, high test scores and GPA alone aren’t enough to earn any student an offer of admission. As Boston University makes clear, what students do outside the classroom matters, too. Ideal BU students have ambition, take risks while pursuing their passions, and engage in meaningful community service.

  Keep in mind the Boston University community purpose—to pursue knowledge and embrace possibilities. Then consider how your child can display these values in their extracurricular activities. One of the most effective ways to achieve this aim is for your child to determine their biggest interest areas and explore them in unique, in-depth ways. We can use an example to illustrate this approach.

  Imagine your child’s biggest passion is playing the violin. The best extracurricular strategy would be for them to pursue this passion through methods that display leadership, service, research, and creativity. To demonstrate leadership, your child could organize a small ensemble group of peers and perform at local events. Using a love of violin for service could be as simple as giving free violin lessons to younger students or performing at homes for the elderly. As a way to connect music with research, they could assist with a study examining the effect of music therapy on depression. And to be impressively creative, your child could compose original songs, either sharing them on YouTube or recording them into an EP and selling it online.

  Just imagine a Boston University admissions officer reading through this list of activities on your child’s application. They would be amazed at the level of initiative. Using this extracurricular approach will set your child apart from other applicants and improve their chances of getting into Boston University.

  Boston University application requirements

  If your child has the academic statistics and extracurricular history to form a strong BU applicant profile, they might be ready to apply to Boston University. Here is a list of requirements for the BU application.

  • A completed Common Application, Coalition Application, or QuestBridge Application
  • High school transcript
  • First-quarter senior grades
  • Counselor recommendation and school report form
  • One teacher recommendation
  • SAT or ACT scores (optional through Fall 2025/Spring 2026 admission)
  • If your child is applying to the School of Music in cello, double bass, flute, viola, piano, trombone, trumpet, violin, and voice, they are required to submit a pre-screening recording.
  • If your child is applying to the School of Theatre or School of Visual Arts, they must complete an audition, submit a portfolio, or both.

  How to Get Into Boston University (BU) Guide

  

  How to Get Into Boston University – General Information

  Boston University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. BU was founded in 1839 and has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 16,000. Boston University is ranked #42 in National Universities according to U.S. News and #83 in Forbes’ Top Colleges list.

  What we’ll cover in this “How to Get Into Boston University” guide:

  • Average Boston University average GPA
  • Boston University SAT scores
  • Understanding the Boston University acceptance rate
  • Boston University Early Decision deadline
  • Completing your Boston University application
  • Writing a strong Boston University supplemental essay
  • Boston University admissions, and more

  When thinking about how to get into Boston University, you want to consider all parts of the Boston University application. So, maintain a high GPA, explore your interests through extracurricular activities, and use stats like the average Boston University SAT scores or Boston University average GPA to see how you compare to BU’s student body.

  Figuring out how to get into Boston University takes strategy. We can help. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes BU graduates. Want to maximize your admission odds? Create your account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.

  How can I get into Boston University?

  Wondering how to get into Boston University? There are many factors to consider as you begin your “how to get into Boston University” research. This guide will help you build a strong application well before the Boston University application deadline.

  Boston University is one of the most selective universities in the country. So, if you want to learn how to get into Boston University, know that the Boston University acceptance rate is low. To maximize your admissions odds, start preparing early. This means studying for standardized tests, choosing meaningful extracurriculars, and striving for a high GPA.

  In this guide, we will discuss some Boston University admissions statistics, including the Boston University average GPA, Boston University SAT scores, and Boston University acceptance rate. We will also review all parts of the Boston University application, including the Boston University supplemental essay and Boston University Early Decision deadline.

  Is it hard to get into Boston University?

  Boston University admissions is highly competitive. Almost 76,000 students applied last year, a 24% increase from the previous year. This brought the Boston University acceptance rate down to 18.3%.

  Approximately 43% of the incoming class was accepted to Boston University Early Decision. Although test scores are currently an optional part of the Boston University application process, the average Boston University SAT scores ranged from 1310-1500.

  In short, keep these statistics in mind as you think about how to get into Boston University. With the ever-increasing competition for Boston University admissions, it is crucial to prepare your Boston University application carefully. It will take much more than just meeting the Boston University average GPA or Boston University SAT scores to stand out.

  What is the average GPA for Boston University?

  The Boston University average GPA for the class of 2025 was 3.9. Although BU does not require a certain GPA, matching the Boston University average GPA will increase your admission odds.

  It is important to always strive for a high GPA, as the Boston University average GPA can change each year. For example, in the BU Class of 2025, most admitted students were in the top 6% of their high school class. Based on the current trend, the Boston University average GPA will likely only increase.

  BU uses your junior year GPA to evaluate your application. So, it is crucial that you do well in your high school classes. That starts with choosing the right courses for you. You will have a better chance of matching the Boston University average GPA if you take advantage of all resources.

  BU looks for students who are highly driven, intellectually curious, and ready to enrich the BU community. So, if your GPA is lower than the Boston University average GPA, don’t worry. There are other aspects of your application that can make up for a lower GPA.

  Wondering how to get into Boston University if you do not meet the Boston University average GPA? Read our article here. You’ll find helpful tips to stand out, even if you can’t meet the Boston University average GPA or Boston University SAT scores.

  What does the Boston University application include?

  As you think about how to get into Boston University, you may wonder about the Boston University application. There are multiple parts of the Boston University application. Each one is key to your “how to get into Boston University” plan. You should submit the Boston University supplemental essay and any test scores well before the Boston University Early Decision or RD deadline.

  There are two dates to remember for the Boston University application. The Boston University Early Decision deadline is November 1 st . The Boston University Early Decision II and RD deadlines are January 4 th .

  Applicants must submit:

  • The Common Application or Coalition Application
  • Boston University supplemental essay
  • High school transcript
  • Senior year grades
  • Counselor Recommendation
  • School Report Form
  • Teacher Evaluation

  Optional application materials include:

  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Major-specific portfolios, auditions, and/or interviews

  Boston University admissions has adopted a test-optional policy through spring of 2024. So, you must decide for yourself whether to include test scores with your Boston University application. However, if your test scores match the average Boston University SAT scores, it makes sense to submit them.

  To learn more about Boston University admissions requirements, visit their website.

  What extracurriculars does Boston University like?

  Want to know how to get into Boston University? Start by identifying your passions and interests.

  Aside from the Boston University average GPA and Boston University SAT scores, BU wants to see that you have chosen activities that highlight your intellect, ambition, and curiosity. As you select your extracurriculars, think about the quality of your involvements rather than the quantity.

  Because the Boston University acceptance rate is so low, make sure you emphasize your interests and passions through your extracurriculars. In addition to academics, extracurricular activities help make up your candidate profile. The candidate profile is a 1-2 sentence description of who you are, what you do, and why colleges should admit you. So, a key part of your “how to get into Boston University” approach should be to craft a strong candidate profile that sets you apart.

  Curious about what extracurriculars to include on your Boston University application? Check out our guide on how to ace the Common App.

  What is Boston University’s acceptance rate?

  The Boston University acceptance rate is another factor to consider in your “how to get into Boston University” plan. The Boston University acceptance rate was 18.3% for the BU Class of 2025.

  For some context, Boston University admissions received 75,778 total applications for the BU class of 2025. Roughly 4,011 students enrolled. 57% enrolled through the RD deadline, and 43% did so through the Boston University Early Decision deadline.

  The Boston University acceptance rate depends on several factors. This includes the total number of applicants and the available space in the freshman class.

  Although BU currently has a test-optional policy through spring of 2024, we encourage you to take standardized tests if you can do so. In the class of 2025, the average Boston University SAT scores ranged from 1310-1510, and the average ACT score ranged from 30-34.

  You should plan to take your first test during your junior year. This gives you time to retake the test if necessary. BU superscores both the SAT and ACT, so you should include all your test scores on your Boston University application.

  Be sure to study for the test well in advance of the Boston University Early Decision and RD deadlines. Doing so can help you match the average Boston University SAT scores.

  Does Boston University require interviews?

  As you explore how to get into Boston University, you might be curious if the Boston University application requires an interview. However, there’s no need to brush up on your interview skills—Boston University admissions does not offer an interview.

  However, an interview is required if you are applying to BU’s accelerated medical program.

  How do you write a Boston University supplemental essay?

  As you near the end of your “how to get into Boston University” research, you might wonder how to approach the Boston University supplemental essay. So, let’s look at the Boston University supplemental essays together.

  In addition to your Common App essay, there is one required Boston University supplemental essay. There is also one optional prompt. Because the Boston University acceptance rate is so low, we recommend completing both prompts to stand out.

  “Why this school” essay

  The first Boston University supplemental essay is BU’s version of the “Why Us” essay prompt. This Boston University supplemental essay asks you to explain why you want to attend BU over any other college.

  This “Why Us” Boston University supplemental essay has a maximum of 250 words. Since your word count is so limited, it’s best to select one topic to discuss in your Boston University supplemental essay.

  Not sure how to choose one thing to talk about in your Boston University supplemental essay? Make a list of what excites you most about BU. Be specific—is there a particular course or student club that you can’t wait to join? Mention it by name! You want your Boston University supplemental essay to stand out, so the more details you can include, the better.

  The second Boston University supplemental essay is optional. The prompt asks you to use the space (2000 words maximum) to include any additional information, materials, or writing samples that you want a Boston University admissions officer to review along with your application.

  Here are some ideas of what you can submit for this Boston University supplemental essay:

  • Speech
  • Poem
  • Art
  • Photography
  • Special circumstances

  Since the Boston University acceptance rate is so low, we recommend you complete the optional Boston University supplemental essay. This is especially important if you plan to apply by the Boston University Early Decision deadline.

  If you can’t meet the Boston University average GPA or Boston University SAT scores, the Boston University supplemental essay is a great chance to strengthen your application. So, we suggest writing the BU essays well before the Boston University application deadline.

  How does Boston University review applications?

  We’ve reviewed the Boston University acceptance rate, Boston University average GPA, Boston University SAT scores, and Boston University supplemental essay. Now, let’s move on to the next step of your “how to get into Boston University” strategy.

  After the Boston University Early Decision and RD deadlines have passed, Boston University admissions officers will begin the review process.

  The Boston University admissions office will take the following into account as they review your application:

  • Academic achievements
  • Activities inside and outside of the classroom
  • Academic environment
  • Life experiences
  • Personal background

  BU looks for students who are highly motivated, intellectually curious, and ready to enrich campus live. So, be sure to highlight these qualities in your Boston University application.

  Want more tips on how to get into Boston University? Check out the Stories page of the Boston University Admissions website.

  Will Boston University consider my social media accounts?

  As you explore how to get into Boston University, you might wonder if your social media presence will affect your application. However, no need to worry—BU does not use social media in their review process.

  Still, this doesn’t mean that you should post offensive content on your social media accounts. While these kinds of posts might not directly affect your Boston University admissions odds, they could impact other areas of your life. For example, many employers will review social media accounts during the interview process.

  Above all, we suggest you use social media responsibly. Although it isn’t likely that BU will check your Twitter or Instagram accounts, there is always a chance.

  Is Boston University a good school for me?

  As you reflect on how to get into Boston University, it is important to ask yourself whether BU is the right school for you. Yes, the BU acceptance rate is highly competitive. And yes, students who attend BU will benefit from the 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and unique Terrier Traditions such as the annual Lobster Night dinner. However, this doesn’t mean that BU is the right place for everyone.

  BU is the epitome of an East Coast school. When you think of Boston University, you might picture the landmarks near campus or daydream about how you will get to experience all four seasons. However, you should weigh the pros and cons of attending an East Coast vs. a West Coast college as you decide whether BU is right for you.

  Aside from the Boston University average GPA or Boston University SAT scores, financial aid is another factor to think about in your “how to get into Boston University” research. Regardless of your family’s means, BU is committed to meeting 100% of your demonstrated need. Merit scholarships are also available to all students, regardless of need.

  As the number of college applicants increases each year, it is important to solidify your “how to get into Boston University” strategy early. If BU is your “dream school,” consider applying by the Boston University Early Decision I or Boston University Early Decision II deadline.

  As you think about how to get into Boston University, ask yourself the following:

  • Am I interested in attending a large university that is committed to creating reflective and resourceful leaders?
  • Does BU offer the major I want to study?
  • How can BU help me achieve my future goals?

  If you decide that BU is the right place for you, be sure to submit all materials by the Boston University Early Decision or RD deadlines.

  Click here to take a virtual tour of the BU campus. Trying to decide between Boston University and Boston College? Then, watch our webinar to hear some insider perspectives on both schools.

  Additional tips to get into Boston University:

  Build your candidate profile

  As you craft your “how to get into Boston University” approach, keep in mind that BU looks for students who want to understand the world and develop their own innovations. Pursue your academic interests and seek out experiences that will strengthen your candidate profile.

  Write compelling Boston University supplemental essays

  Be sure to write a genuine, thoughtful response to the first Boston University supplemental essay. Then, use the second Boston University supplemental essay to share more details about your passions, background, or special circumstances.

  Apply early

  Because the Boston University acceptance rate is so low, consider applying to Boston University Early Decision to maximize your admission odds. However, you want to build the strongest application possible, so give yourself plenty of time to do so.

  Don’t let the Boston University average GPA, Boston University SAT scores, or Boston University acceptance rate stop you from applying. Although there is no guarantee that you will be admitted to BU, following the tips and advice in our “how to get into Boston University” guide will help you prepare the most competitive application possible. Good luck!

  

  This guide was written by Claire Babbs, UT Austin ’12. If you want to know how to get into Boston University, we’ve got you covered. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes BU graduates. Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.