Boston University (BU) is a private research university located in the heart of Boston, visit the website Massachusetts. Founded in 1839, it has grown into one of the largest independent universities in the United States and a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), placing it among North America’s leading research institutions .
A World-Class Institution in a World-Class City
BU’s most defining feature is its location. The campus stretches along Commonwealth Avenue in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, integrating the university directly into one of America’s most dynamic cities . This urban setting provides students with unparalleled access to internships, cultural institutions, and professional opportunities. The university describes Boston as “the greatest college town in the world,” and the city becomes an extension of the classroom .
Academic Structure and Programs
BU comprises 17 schools and colleges and the Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences, offering more than 300 undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and special degree programs . With over 37,000 students from all 50 states and more than 150 countries, BU is a truly global institution .
The university’s academic philosophy combines liberal arts and professional studies, developing what BU calls “the agile, adaptive thinking that is critical for success in today’s world” . With 13 libraries and over 130 academic centers and institutes, students have extensive resources for research and scholarship .
Rankings and Reputation
BU consistently ranks among the nation’s top universities:
- #42 among National Universities (U.S. News & World Report)
- #13 in the U.S. for most employable graduates (Times Higher Education)
- Member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), an elite group of 71 leading research universities
Admissions and Class Profile
BU has become increasingly selective. For the Class of 2030:
- 79,498 applications received
- 14.8% acceptance rate
- 58% of the class applied via Early Decision
- 3,714 students matriculated
The academic profile of admitted students is strong:
- Average SAT: 1470
- Average ACT: 33
- Average GPA: 3.80
The class represents 87 countries and 48 states, with 19% first-generation students and nearly 16% Pell Grant recipients .
Cost and Financial Aid
BU is a significant investment, but the university is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for qualifying students .
Estimated Undergraduate Cost of Attendance (2025-2026):
| Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $69,870 |
| University Fees | $1,502 |
| Medical Insurance | $3,401 |
| Housing and Food | $19,970 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 |
| Incidentals | $4,754 |
| Total | $100,497 |
Source: BU Confidential Statement for Financing Studies
Important note for international students: Need-based financial aid is not available to international students, undocumented students, or DACA recipients. International applicants should explore merit scholarships and other funding opportunities. my explanation Graduate students may be eligible for merit scholarships, graduate assistantships, or private loans .
Notable Alumni and Legacy
BU’s alumni network includes nearly 460,000 living graduates who have made significant contributions across fields . Notable alumni include:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. — Civil rights leader who earned his Ph.D. at BU
- Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez — U.S. Representative
- Howard Stern — Radio and television personality
- Jason Alexander — Actor (Seinfeld)
- Julianne Moore — Academy Award-winning actress
- Nina Totenberg — NPR legal affairs correspondent
Who Boston University Is For
BU is an excellent fit for students who:
- Want to study in a major city with extensive internship and career opportunities
- Seek a large, diverse, and dynamic university community
- Value the combination of liberal arts and professional preparation
- Are interested in global engagement and studying alongside peers from around the world
With its urban campus, strong academic programs, see and exceptional career outcomes, Boston University offers an education that is deeply connected to the world beyond the classroom.