Boston University Acceptance Rate: Class of 2028 Admission Statistics

Just how competitive is Boston University? In the most recent admissions cycle, Boston University’s acceptance rate was 11.1%. But instead of letting that number intimidate you, use it to your advantage. It gives you a sense of what you’re up against and helps you focus on the parts of your application that can truly make you stand out.

In this blog, we’ll dive deep into Boston University’s acceptance rate, what it means for you as an applicant, and how you can maximize your chances of getting in. We’ll also break down BU’s Early Decision vs. Regular Decision acceptance rates, transfer admissions, waitlist trends, and the factors that set successful applicants apart.

• What Is Boston University’s Acceptance Rate
• Boston University’s Acceptance Rate Trends
• Boston University Regular Decision Acceptance Rate
• Boston University Early Decision Acceptance Rate
• How to Get Accepted into Boston University
• Boston University Transfer Acceptance Rate
• Boston University Waitlist Acceptance Rate
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is Boston University’s Acceptance Rate

Earning a spot at Boston University is anything but simple. For the Class of 2028, the acceptance rate was just 11.1%, which meant that out of 78,769 applicants, only 8,749 received that coveted acceptance letter.

The competition is fierce, but here’s something to keep in mind: how you apply can actually make a difference in your chances.

During the Regular Decision (RD) round, Boston University received 71,915 applications and accepted only 6,813 students, resulting in a 9.5% acceptance rate. Meanwhile, the Early Decision (ED) pool had significantly better odds, with 6,854 applicants and 1,936 earning a spot, making a 30.7% acceptance rate.

Applying ED can give you a real advantage. But even with that boost, BU’s selectivity means your application needs to be strong from start to finish.

Boston University yield rate

The yield rate—the percentage of admitted students who actually enroll—is an important factor in college admissions. For Boston University’s Class of 2028, 3,268 out of 8,749 admitted students accepted their offer, giving BU a 37.4% yield rate.

To put that into perspective, the national average yield rate for four-year nonprofit colleges in fall 2022 was around 30%. Private colleges averaged 33%, while public colleges were at 25%. With a yield above the national average, BU remains a top choice for many students.

So, what does this mean for you as an applicant?

• The waitlist is even more competitive since a higher percentage of admitted students commit to BU upfront.
• BU’s reputation is strong, attracting students for its academics, campus life, and career opportunities.

If BU is your dream school, make sure your application is as strong as possible to stand out in the competitive pool.

Boston University’s Acceptance Rate Trends

Boston University’s acceptance rates have been in a downward trend in the last five years. Here are the data based on BU’s Common Data Sets:

Over the years, BU has become increasingly selective. The number of applicants has generally increased, reaching a peak of 80,796 for the Class of 2026, while the acceptance rate has steadily declined, from 20.1% for the Class of 2024 to just 11.1% for the Class of 2028. This trend suggests that BU is becoming more competitive, with more students applying and fewer being admitted.

If you want to secure your place, your application needs to stand out. Strong grades, meaningful extracurriculars, and a personal story that sets you apart will make all the difference. If BU is your dream school, one thing is clear, you’ve got to bring your A-game.

Boston University acceptance rate vs Ivy League schools

Boston University is frequently mentioned among the nation’s top universities, even though it’s not part of the Ivy League. BU stands among the most competitive schools with an 11.1% acceptance rate for the Class of 2028. Here’s how it stacks up against Ivy League schools:

Boston University isn’t in the Ivy League, but its rising selectivity places it among some of the most prestigious schools. For the Class of 2028, Boston University’s acceptance rate was 11.1%—higher than Ivy League schools like Harvard (3.6%), Yale (3.7%), and Columbia (3.85%), but still competitive compared to Cornell’s 8.4% and Penn’s 5.4%. 

While the Ivies remain more selective, BU’s declining acceptance rate proves it’s becoming an increasingly tough school to get into, solidifying its reputation as a top choice for high-achieving students.

Boston University Regular Decision Acceptance Rate

For the Class of 2028, Boston University’s Regular Decision (RD) acceptance rate fell to just 9.5%, making it one of the most competitive years yet. With 71,915 applications and only 6,813 acceptances, RD applicants faced steeper odds than ever before.

Meanwhile, students who applied Early Decision (ED) historically have had a higher acceptance rate, as BU prioritizes applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to attending. This trend underscores the strategic advantage of applying ED, giving committed students a better shot at securing a spot in BU’s highly selective incoming class.

Let’s take a look at Boston University Regular Decision acceptance rates for the last five years as reported on their Common Data Set:

Over the years, more and more students have been applying RD to Boston University, with applications reaching a high of 74,487 for the Class of 2026. But here’s the catch: fewer students are actually getting in. The number of accepted students has dropped from 10,583 for the Class of 2024 to just 6,813 for the Class of 2028. Because of this, BU’s RD acceptance rate has taken a big dip, going from 18.9% to 9.5% in just a few years.

What does this mean for you? If you’re going the Regular Decision route, your application needs to be on point. Strong grades, solid test scores, and standout essays can make a huge difference. Plus, having meaningful extracurriculars shows what you bring to the table beyond academics.

Boston University Regular Decision deadline and notification date

​If you’re aiming to join Boston University through Regular Decision, mark your calendar: the application deadline is January 6, with admissions decisions released in late March.

To secure your spot, remember to submit your enrollment deposit by May 1. For those seeking financial aid, both the CSS Profile and FAFSA are due by January 6. It’s important to follow these timelines to ensure your application is considered without any hitches.

Boston University Early Decision Acceptance Rate

For the Class of 2028, Boston University’s Early Decision (ED) acceptance rate was 28.2%, making it a much stronger option compared to Regular Decision. Out of 6,854 ED applicants, 1,936 received acceptance letters.

Let’s take a look at how BU’s Early Decision acceptance rates have changed throughout the years:

Over the years, more students have been applying Early Decision (ED) at Boston University, with applications reaching a high of 6,866 for the Class of 2027 before slightly dipping to 6,854 for 2028.

At the same time, BU has been accepting fewer ED applicants, with the acceptance rate dropping from 33.1% (Class of 2024) to 28.2% (Class of 2028). This shows that more students see ED as a way to boost their chances, leading to tougher competition for those early spots.

Boston University Early Decision policy

Applying Early Decision (ED) at Boston University is a big commitment. If you’re accepted, you must withdraw all other college applications and officially commit to BU. The only exception is for students applying for financial aid—you can wait to review your aid package before making it final.

One reason ED applicants have higher acceptance rates is that applying early shows BU you’re serious about attending. This helps the admissions team shape its incoming class with students who are fully committed, and in return, you get a better chance of getting in compared to Regular Decision applicants.

Here’s what can happen when you apply ED:

• Admit. Congrats! You’re in, and BU is officially your home.
• Defer. Your application moves to the Regular Decision pool for another review.
• Deny. Unfortunately, BU won’t be an option for you this year.

ED is a great option if Boston University is your absolute top choice and you’re confident in your application. But there’s a trade-off—since ED is binding, you won’t be able to compare financial aid offers from other schools. So before hitting that submit button, make sure you’re 100% ready to commit!

Boston University Early Decision deadline and notification date

​If you’re considering Early Decision (ED) at Boston University, here are the important dates to keep in mind:​

• ED I: Application due by November 1; decisions released in mid-December.​
• ED II: Application due by January 6; decisions released in mid-February.

These deadlines are crucial for planning your application strategy.

How to Get Accepted into Boston University

Boston University wants students who are curious, motivated, and ready to make a difference in a diverse and exciting community. Having a strong GPA and taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors will definitely help, but grades alone won’t get you in.

So how do you make that happen? Here are some tips to help you put your best foot forward:

Target GPA

Boston University doesn’t have a strict GPA requirement, but to be a competitive applicant, you should aim for a 3.90 or higher. Along with strong grades, challenging coursework—like AP, IB, or honors classes—can give you an edge in the admissions process.

BU looks for students who push themselves academically and take the hardest courses available at their high school. Most students admitted to the Class of 2028 were in the top 10% of their class, which shows just how competitive the applicant pool is. If you’re serious about getting into BU, strong academics are a must.

Target test scores

Even though Boston University is test-optional, submitting a strong SAT or ACT score can still give your application a boost. If you’re sending in test scores, aim for the highest possible numbers to stay competitive.

Hitting the 75th percentile—around 1500 on the SAT or 34 on the ACT—shows that you’re ready for BU’s rigorous academics.

But if you choose not to submit scores, don’t worry! Just make sure the rest of your application stands out. Strong extracurriculars, compelling essays, and great recommendation letters can make all the difference in helping you secure your spot at BU.

Extracurriculars

Boston University wants students who are passionate, driven, and committed to their interests outside the classroom. Instead of a long list of random activities, BU values quality over quantity, meaning they prefer to see deep involvement in a few things that truly matter to you.

What really makes you stand out is the impact you’ve made. BU loves applicants who take initiative by leading projects, starting organizations, making a difference in their communities, or creating something new. Maybe you’ve launched a nonprofit, done independent research and submitted it to the Journal of Student Research, or held a leadership role in a club. 

Those kinds of experiences show that you’re not just involved—you’re actively shaping your world. BU wants students who will bring that same energy to campus, so if you have a genuine passion for something, let it shine in your application.

Essays

Application essays are your chance to tell your story and show BU who you really are. Admissions officers want to see your personality, passions, and perspective, so use this space to go beyond your grades and test scores.

Be specific by talking about programs, professors, or campus opportunities that excite you and explaining why BU is the perfect place for you. Show how you’ll contribute to the BU community and what makes you a great fit.

Recommendation

When you apply to Boston University, you must submit two letters of recommendation to give the admissions team a better picture of who you are as a student. Here’s what you’ll need:

• School counselor recommendation and school report form. Your school counselor will submit both the School Report Form and a recommendation letter through the Common Application.
• Teacher evaluation. Ask a teacher who knows you well to complete and submit the Teacher Evaluation form on the Common App.

Pick recommenders who really know you and not just someone who gave you a good grade. BU wants to see letters that go beyond the basics and give real insight into your work ethic, character, and what you bring to the classroom. A strong, personal recommendation can make a big difference in setting you apart from other applicants.

If you’re looking for a clear and simple guide on how to get into Boston University, here’s everything you need to know to navigate the admissions process and make your application shine.

Boston University Transfer Acceptance Rate

For the Class of 2028, Boston University’s transfer acceptance rate was 34.6%, with 2,328 students accepted out of 6,729 applicants. This shows that while transferring to Boston University is competitive, a significant number of students are welcomed into the community each year.

BU values transfer students from different academic backgrounds, but successful applicants typically have strong college coursework, solid grades, meaningful extracurricular involvement, and a clear reason why Boston University is the right fit for them.

Let’s take a look at Boston University’s transfer acceptance rates for the last 5 years:

Over the years, more students have been applying to transfer into Boston University, hitting a high of 6,729 applicants for the Class of 2028. The acceptance rate has gone up and down, with the highest at 53.7% for the Class of 2024 and the lowest at 29% for the Class of 2026. For 2028, BU accepted 2,328 students, bringing the transfer acceptance rate to 34.6%.

While BU welcomes transfer students, the competition has gotten tougher. If you’re thinking about transferring, strong grades, a clear reason for wanting to join BU, and a standout application will help you increase your chances of getting in.

Boston University important dates and transfer requirements

Boston University welcomes transfer applicants and has set deadlines to help guide you through the process. If you’re applying for fall semester enrollment, make sure to submit your application by March 15, with admissions decisions released between mid-April and mid-June.

If you’re aiming for spring semester enrollment, the application deadline is November 1, and decisions are sent out between mid-November and mid-December.

To transfer to Boston University, here’s what you need to submit:

• Common Application. Fill out and submit the Common App. You must pick a specific BU school or college and declare a major (you cannot apply as undeclared).
• College transcripts. Send official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended.
• Transfer report. A college official (such as a dean or registrar) must complete this form, which includes information about your academic and disciplinary record.
• High school transcript and proof of graduation. Submit official high school transcripts showing you graduated. If you haven’t, provide a GED or high school equivalency exam.
• Course syllabi. Upload syllabi for your completed courses to the MyBU Applicant Portal to help BU evaluate your transfer credits.

Boston University Waitlist Acceptance Rate

Boston University does accept students from its waitlist, but historically, the chances haven’t been very high for those hoping to get off the list:

For the Class of 2024, 674 students got off the Boston University waitlist, leading to a 7.7% acceptance rate—a pretty decent number compared to recent years. But since then, those chances have plummeted. For the Class of 2025, just one student made it in.

The following year, for the Class of 2026, that number barely improved, with only three waitlisted applicants getting accepted. Fast-forward to the Class of 2028, and out of 15,339 hopeful students, only 18 were admitted, bringing the waitlist acceptance rate to an almost impossible 0.1%.

These numbers send a clear message—getting off BU’s waitlist is a long shot and completely depends on how many admitted students decide to enroll. If most accepted students commit, there just aren’t any spots left for those on the waitlist.

If you’re waitlisted, it’s totally okay to stay hopeful, but don’t count on it. Instead, secure your spot at another school and keep an eye out for any updates from BU. That way, you’re prepared for whatever happens next!

What to do if you’re waitlisted at Boston University

Getting waitlisted isn’t a rejection—it’s more like a “maybe.” Boston University sees you as a strong applicant but doesn’t have a spot for you at the moment. The waitlist allows the admissions team to pull from a backup pool of candidates if admitted students decide not to enroll.

While there’s still a chance, being on the waitlist doesn’t guarantee admission. It’s important to stay realistic and have a backup plan, including committing to another school while keeping an eye on BU. Here’s how you can stay in the game:

• Confirm your spot. Make sure you officially accept your place on the waitlist by following BU’s instructions. If you skip this step, you won’t be considered.
• Write a Letter of Continued Interest (LOCI). Send a short, genuine letter to BU’s admissions office expressing your enthusiasm for BU, reaffirming your commitment, and sharing any new achievements since you applied.
• Keep your grades up. Stay focused on school and continue your extracurricular involvement. BU values students who show consistency and dedication, even after applications are submitted.
• Stay grounded. The waitlist process is unpredictable. While you can stay hopeful, make sure you’re also preparing to have a great college experience at the school where you’ve been accepted.

The best way to avoid the uncertainty of the waitlist is to submit a strong application from the start. But if you do end up here, these steps can help you stand out as a committed and qualified candidate.

Just keep in mind that BU’s waitlist acceptance rate is extremely low, so manage your expectations—but don’t stop believing in yourself!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Boston University’s latest overall acceptance rate?

For the Class of 2028, Boston University’s overall acceptance rate was 11.1%. BU received 78,769 applications and admitted 8,749 students.

2. What is Boston University’s Early Decision acceptance rate?

For the Class of 2028, BU’s Early Decision (ED) acceptance rate was 28.2%. Out of 6,854 ED applicants, 1,936 received offers. Applying ED gives you significantly better odds compared to Regular Decision, but it also comes with a binding commitment to enroll if accepted.

3. What is Boston University’s Regular Decision acceptance rate?

BU’s Regular Decision (RD) acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was 9.5%. The university received 72,144 RD applications and admitted 6,712 students, making RD far more competitive than ED.

4. What is Boston University’s transfer acceptance rate?

For the Class of 2028, BU’s transfer acceptance rate was 34.6%. Out of 6,729 transfer applicants, 2,328 were admitted. While BU remains transfer-friendly compared to first-year admissions, competition has been increasing over the years.

5. What is Boston University’s waitlist acceptance rate?

BU’s waitlist acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was just 0.1%. Out of 15,339 applicants placed on the waitlist, only 18 were admitted.

Takeaways

Boston University’s acceptance rate shows just how competitive it is to earn a spot at this highly respected university. If BU is on your list, here are five important things to keep in mind:

• BU’s overall acceptance rate for the Class of 2028 was 11.1%, continuing its trend of becoming more selective over the years.
• While BU’s acceptance rate is higher than Ivy League schools, it remains extremely competitive, especially among top private universities.
• Early Decision applicants had a much higher acceptance rate (28.2%) compared to Regular Decision (9.5%), making ED a smart choice for students who are fully committed to attending BU.
• A strong GPA (3.9+), competitive SAT/ACT scores (SAT 1450+, ACT 33+), compelling essays, and strong recommendations can help you stand out in the applicant pool.
• Because BU’s admissions process is so competitive, working with a college counselor or admissions expert could give you an edge and help strengthen your application.