Admissions, Campus, Rankings, Courses, Scholarships, and Placements
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Admissions, Campus, Rankings, Courses, Scholarships, and Placements

Boston University : Admissions, Campus, Rankings, Courses, Scholarships, and Placements

Boston, Massachusetts,
Private
Estd: 1839
Genders: Coed
Updated by -AuthorTanya Verma
Updated on - Tue Jan 14 2025

Boston University (BU) is one of the top private universities in the United States, known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and world-class research opportunities. As such, the admissions process at BU is highly competitive. 

This guide outlines the steps involved in applying to both undergraduate and graduate programs at BU, including key deadlines, application requirements, and tips for success. The undergraduate admission process at Boston University is designed to evaluate a student’s academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations. BU offers both Early Decision (ED) and Regular Decision (RD) options for applicants.

Application Type

Description

Early Decision (ED)

A binding decision process. If you are admitted, you must attend BU and withdraw all other college applications.

Regular Decision (RD)

A non-binding decision process. Students are not required to commit to BU if accepted and can apply to multiple universities.

2. Application Portal

  • Common Application: BU accepts applications through the Common App, which includes the university’s specific essay prompts.

  • Application Fee: $80 (Fee waivers available for eligible students based on financial need).

3. Application Requirements

Required Document

Description

High School Transcript

Official transcript showing courses taken and grades earned throughout high school.

Standardized Test Scores

SAT or ACT (optional for 2024-2025 academic year due to the COVID-19 pandemic). You may submit scores if you feel they enhance your application.

Letters of Recommendation

Typically one teacher and one counselor letter of recommendation.

Essays

Personal statement (via Common App) and a BU-specific supplemental essay.

Extracurricular Activities

List of extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles.

Interviews(Optional)

Interviews are optional, but they may help provide a more personal view of the applicant. These are typically conducted by alumni or admissions officers.

4. Application Deadlines

Application Type

Deadline

Early Decision (ED)

November 1

Regular Decision (RD)

January 4

5. Admission Decisions

  • Early Decision Notification: Mid-December.

  • Regular Decision Notification: Late March.

  • Financial Aid: BU offers need-based financial aid, which requires completing the FAFSA and CSS Profile.

Though not required, BU offers interviews for prospective students. These interviews are usually conducted by alumni and serve as an opportunity for students to showcase their personality, aspirations, and fit with BU’s community. These are not binding and are meant to provide further context to your application.

Graduate admissions at Boston University are tailored to each program. Different departments have different requirements, but the general process is outlined below.

Graduate programs at BU require a variety of documents, and each program may have specific criteria. Below are the typical components of a graduate application:

Document Required

Description

Online Application Form

Complete your application through BU’s Graduate Admissions portal or the specific program’s page.

Official Transcripts

Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you’ve attended.

Letters of Recommendation

Typically two or three recommendations from professors or employers.

Statement of Purpose

A written essay discussing your academic interests, goals, and why you are applying to the specific program.

Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Include relevant academic and professional experiences.

Test Scores

GRE, GMAT, or other program-specific tests (some programs may waive this requirement).

Portfolio or Writing Samples

Some programs, such as those in the arts or humanities, may require a portfolio or samples of your work.

Deadlines for Graduate Programs

Graduate program deadlines vary by department. However, most programs adhere to the following general timelines:

Program Type

Application Deadline

Fall Admission

December – February

Spring Admission

September – November

Check the specific program’s website for precise deadlines.

3. Admission Decisions

  • Decision Notification: Graduate program decisions typically take longer than undergraduate decisions. Applicants can expect decisions by late March or early April for fall admissions.

  • Interviews: Some graduate programs, especially in fields like business, law, and health sciences, may require an interview as part of the admission process.

Application Tips and Recommendations

  • Early Planning: Start early and keep track of deadlines. Gather all your application materials in advance and allow time for recommendations and test scores to be submitted.

  • Focus on Essays: The personal statement and essays are a key component of your application. Take time to reflect on your motivations, goals, and why BU is a good fit for you.

  • Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your strengths, character, and potential.

  • Extracurriculars Matter: BU values well-rounded students. Highlight leadership roles, volunteering, and any other meaningful extracurricular activities.

  • Test-Optional Policy: BU is test-optional for undergraduate admissions for the 2024-2025 cycle. However, if you believe your SAT or ACT scores represent your academic abilities well, you may still submit them.

  • Check Program-Specific Requirements: For graduate programs, always check individual departmental websites for additional requirements, such as portfolios or specific standardized tests.

Frequently Asked Questions
1.What are the undergraduate application deadlines at Boston University?

Early Decision: November 1 Regular Decision: January 4

2.Are SAT/ACT scores required for undergraduate admission?

SAT/ACT scores are optional for the 2024-2025 cycle. However, if you believe your scores reflect your academic potential, you may submit them.

3.Can international students apply to Boston University?

Yes, BU welcomes international students. In addition to the general application requirements, international applicants need to submit proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) and financial support documentation.

4.What is the graduate application deadline for most programs?

. Deadlines vary by program, but typically: . Fall Admission: December – February . Spring Admission: September – November Always verify with the specific department.

5.Does BU offer financial aid for undergraduate students?

Yes, BU offers need-based financial aid. Students must submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile to be considered for financial assistance. BU also offers merit-based scholarships.

6.Do I need to submit GRE or GMAT scores for graduate programs?

It depends on the program. Many programs, particularly in business, health sciences, and engineering, require GRE or GMAT scores, but some may waive this requirement. Be sure to check the specific department’s website for details.

7.What is the interview process like at Boston University?

Interviews are optional for undergraduate applicants, but may be helpful to demonstrate interest and fit with BU. For graduate programs, interviews may be required or offered depending on the field.