Dreaming of becoming a Boston University Terrier? The university is known for its strong programs in business, communication, and STEM. With its prime location in the heart of Boston, Boston University offers a variety of opportunities that make it an exciting place to study.

But getting in isn’t easy. With an acceptance rate of just 11.1% for the Class of 2028, competition is tough. Admissions officers want applicants who bring something extra, whether it’s leadership, creativity, or a passion for making a difference. Your extracurricular activities, essays, and overall fit for Boston University matter just as much as your academics.

If Boston University is one of your top choices, don’t stress. This guide will break down everything you need to know, from GPA expectations and test scores to application deadlines and tips to help you stand out. Let’s jump in!

• How Hard Is It to Get into Boston University?
• Boston University Admission Requirements
• Boston University GPA Requirements
• Boston University SAT Scores
• Boston University ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Boston University
• Boston University Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into Boston University?

For the Class of 2028, Boston University received a total of 78,769 applications and admitted only 8,749, resulting in an acceptance rate of 11.1%.

Wondering how Boston University’s acceptance rates have changed over time? Here’s a quick look:

As you can see, Boston University’s acceptance rate has been steadily decreasing, dropping from 20.1% for the Class of 2024 to just 11.1% for the Class of 2028. The most significant drop happened between the Class of 2025 and 2026, when the rate fell from 18.6% to 14.4%.

With an acceptance rate now around 11%, Boston University has become one of the most competitive schools in the country, making it harder than ever to secure a spot. If you’re aiming to get in, you’ll need to bring your best.

Boston University Admission Requirements

Boston University looks for students who are driven, academically prepared, and eager to take advantage of the opportunities it offers. Here’s what you need to know about their application process:

• High school transcript. Boston University wants to see that you’ve challenged yourself with rigorous courses like AP, IB, or honors classes. They’re looking for a pattern of strong academic performance and a willingness to push yourself.
• Recommendation letters. You’ll need one counselor recommendation and one letter from a teacher who knows you well. Choose someone who can speak to your work ethic, personality, and what you bring to the classroom—not just your grades.
• Essays. All first-year applicants must complete the Common App essay and one BU-specific supplemental essay. You can choose between two prompts: one about a social or community issue important to you, and the other about how you’ll contribute to the Boston University campus.
• Standardized test scores (optional). Boston University is test-optional, so SAT and ACT scores are not required. If you believe your scores will add value to your application, feel free to submit them. If not, no stress. Admissions officers will focus on the rest of your application.
• Mid-year and final transcripts. Your senior year still matters. Boston University requires a mid-year report with your first-semester grades, and they’ll check your final transcript to ensure you stayed on track.
• Supplemental materials (optional). If you’re applying to certain programs like those in the College of Fine Arts, submitting a portfolio is encouraged to showcase your work.

The most important factors in the admissions process include the rigor of your high school coursework, your academic GPA, letters of recommendation, and your application essay. However, Boston University takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they evaluate more than just your GPA and test scores.

Extracurricular activities, talents, personal qualities, volunteer work, work experience, and first-generation status are also highly considered in the admissions process. While these factors may not carry the same weight as academics, they can still help strengthen your application and demonstrate what makes you unique.

On the other hand, factors like alumni relations and religious affiliation are not considered at all in the admissions process.

A strong application will highlight both your academic achievements and the unique qualities that make you a great fit for the Boston University community.

High school coursework recommendations

Your transcript is one of the first things Boston University reviews, so it’s important to take a rigorous set of academic courses. To be in the best position for admission, here’s what Boston University recommends:

• 4 years of English
• 3-4 years of Mathematics (precalculus/calculus recommended)
• 3-4 years of Laboratory Science
• 3-4 years of History and/or Social Science
• 2-4 years of a language

This totals at least 15 core academic units. However, taking more challenging courses will help strengthen your application. To stand out, make sure to take the most advanced courses available at your school, such as AP, IB, or honors classes.

Applicants to the College of Engineering are required to have a year of calculus. For students enrolled in IB courses, this requirement will be met with enrollment in HL or SL Math Analysis & Approaches or HL Math Applications & Interpretations.

Applicants to the Questrom School of Business are required to have a year of calculus or a year of precalculus and a year of AP Statistics. For students enrolled in IB courses, this requirement will be met with enrollment in HL or SL Math Analysis & Approaches or HL Math Applications & Interpretations.

Boston University GPA Requirements

Boston University doesn’t have a minimum GPA cutoff, but having a strong academic record is important. They look for students who’ve worked hard in challenging courses and shown that they’re ready for the rigors of college life.

Boston University average GPA

According to Boston University’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, the average GPA of admitted students is 3.89. Here’s how it breaks down:

• 39% had a GPA of 4.0
• 39% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99
• 22% had a GPA between 3.50 and 3.74
• Less than 1% had a GPA below 3.5

Meaning, you should aim for a GPA around 3.9 or higher. Class rank can also play a role. Among those who reported their class rank:

• 86% were in the top 10% of their high school class
• 98% were in the top 25%
• 100% were in the top 50%

While GPA is important, it’s just one part of the application. Boston University takes a holistic approach, so things like extracurricular activities, leadership, recommendation letters, and your essays also matter.

If your GPA isn’t quite where you want it to be, don’t worry too much. Taking tough courses, excelling in other areas, and putting together a solid application can still help you stand out.

Boston University SAT Scores

Boston University is test-optional, meaning you do not have to submit SAT scores if you don’t want to. However, if you choose to submit them, they should be strong to stay competitive. High scores can highlight your academic readiness and may help strengthen your application.

Boston University average SAT

According to Boston University’s latest Common Data Set, here are the typical SAT scores for admitted students:

Here’s a breakdown of section scores:

Most admitted students scored well on the SAT. In fact, 83% of students had composite scores between 1400 and 1600, while 16% scored between 1200 and 1399.

In the Math section, 83% of students scored between 700 and 800, while 64% scored in the same range for EBRW.

To stay competitive, aim for an SAT score of 1500, with strong results in both Math and EBRW. A score in this range will show that you’re well-prepared for Boston University’s demanding academics.

If your scores aren’t perfect, don’t stress. Boston University takes a holistic approach to applications, so your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all play an important role. If your SAT scores are close but not where you want them, consider retaking the test to improve your chances.

Does Boston University require the SAT?

Not at all. Boston University follows a test-optional policy, which means you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT scores. If your scores are strong, submitting them can enhance your application. But if they’re not quite where you want them to be, leaving them out won’t hurt your chances.

Boston University takes a holistic approach to admissions. Instead of focusing just on test scores, they want to learn about you as a person and how you’ll contribute to their campus community.

Boston University ACT Scores

Boston University does not have a strict ACT cutoff, but if you choose to submit scores, they should be strong. The ACT is one way to show you are ready for Boston University’s challenging academics, but remember, it is completely optional.

Boston University average ACT

Here’s a look at the ACT scores for admitted Boston University students:

As for the subject breakdown:

Most admitted students scored well on the ACT. In fact, 89% of Boston University students had a composite score between 30 and 36, and 93% scored 30+ in English. In Math, 64% scored between 30 and 36.

If you want to be in the most competitive range, aim for a 34 or higher. But if your scores are not quite there, don’t panic. Boston University takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering factors like your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations. If standardized testing is not your strong suit, you can still stand out in other areas.

Does Boston University prefer the ACT or SAT?

Boston University does not have a preference for one test over the other. Statistically, 30% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while 10% submitted ACT scores. Both SAT and ACT scores are equally accepted, so you should choose the test that best showcases your strengths—or skip them altogether, since submitting scores is optional.

Boston University also superscores both the SAT and ACT, which means they’ll consider your highest section scores from multiple test dates to give you the best possible composite score. If you’ve taken the test more than once, this could work in your favor. Just be sure to submit your strongest scores if you choose to include them in your application.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Boston University

Getting into Boston University can be competitive, but with a solid approach and a standout application, you can increase your chances. Here are the key things to focus on:

1. Keep your GPA strong.

Your GPA is one of the most important factors in the admissions process at Boston University. To stay competitive, aim for a GPA in the 3.9 range or higher. Challenging yourself with courses like AP, IB, or honors classes can also help your application stand out. Performing well in these courses shows that you’re ready for Boston University’s demanding academics.

If your GPA has had some ups and downs, don’t worry. Boston University values growth, so if you’ve shown improvement or made a comeback in certain subjects, highlight that in your application.

If you find yourself struggling in some areas, seeking help from a tutor or joining a study group can show that you’re proactive and committed to your education.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores if they’ll boost your application.

Boston University is test-optional, meaning submitting SAT or ACT scores is entirely up to you. If your scores are strong, they can help reinforce your academic abilities and give your application an additional boost.

To stay competitive, aim for the 75th percentile—or, better yet, higher. For SAT, this means scoring 1500 or higher, and for ACT, at least 34. If your scores fall within or above these ranges, submitting them can give your application an edge.

If your scores aren’t where you’d like them to be, that’s okay. Consider retaking the test to improve weaker sections, or use practice tests and private tutoring to enhance your performance.

Since Boston University superscores both the SAT and ACT, they’ll consider your highest section scores from multiple test dates, which can work in your favor.

That said, if standardized tests aren’t your strength, don’t stress. Boston University takes a holistic approach, considering your coursework, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations. Focus on what makes you stand out and show how you’ll contribute to the Boston University community.

3. Let your essay bring your story to life.

You’ll need to submit a personal statement, choosing a prompt from The Common Application or The Coalition Application. In addition to your personal statement, Boston University requires you to answer one BU-specific essay question.

Here’s the required Boston University supplemental essay prompt:

Boston University is dedicated to our founding principles: “that higher education should be accessible to all and that research, scholarship, artistic creation, and professional practice should be conducted in the service of the wider community—local and international. These principles endure in the University’s insistence on the value of diversity in its tradition and standards of excellence and its dynamic engagement with the City of Boston and the world.” With this mission in mind, please respond to one of the following two questions in 300 words or less:

• Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it? (300 words)
• What about being a student at BU most excites you? How do you hope to contribute to our campus community? (300 words)

How to write a strong essay:

• Grab attention right away. Start with a compelling hook to draw in your reader. Whether it’s a thoughtful question, a personal anecdote, or a vivid image, make it interesting from the start.
• Show your story. Instead of just stating qualities like “I’m a leader,” illustrate it with a specific example. For example, rather than saying, “I’m passionate about helping others,” describe a time you organized a volunteer event or assisted someone in need.
• Show how you’ll contribute. It’s not just about what you’ll gain from Boston University; it’s about what you can contribute. For example, “I’m excited to tutor students in coding through the BU Spark! program, helping them strengthen their skills and contributing to BU’s innovative community.”
• Stay focused. With just 300 words, keep it concise. Choose one significant moment or challenge and explore it in depth. How did it impact you, and what did you learn from it?
• Be authentic. Write in your natural voice, not a formal tone. Admissions officers want to get to know you, not read a research paper or a resume.
• Revise and seek feedback. Don’t settle for your first draft. Take time to revise, ask for feedback from teachers or mentors, and read your essay aloud to catch any awkward phrasing or errors.

Think of your essay as a way to connect with the admissions team and show them what excites you. Take your time to craft a thoughtful and engaging response that showcases your true self.

Need more help with your application essays? Check out our go-to guide on Boston University’s essays!

4. Make your extracurriculars stand out.

Boston University is looking for students who go beyond just participating in clubs. They want to see how you’ve made an impact and what you’ve accomplished. Whether you’ve taken on leadership roles, volunteered in your community, worked on research projects, or followed a creative passion, Boston University is interested in what you’ve done and why it matters.

Here’s how to make your extracurriculars catch their attention:

• Leadership and student government roles. If you’ve led a club, student organization, or initiated a new project, focus on the positive changes you brought about. For example, maybe you led a fundraising event or helped implement a policy to improve student life. Highlight leadership programs such as the Bank of America Student Leaders Program where you’ve honed your skills and contributed meaningfully.
• Community service and advocacy. BU values students who show a commitment to giving back. Whether you volunteered with local shelters, led a community outreach initiative, or supported a cause you’re passionate about, share your involvement and its impact. Highlight programs like Habitat for Humanity or organizing social justice campaigns to show your dedication to making a difference.
• STEM and research activities. If you’ve pursued projects in science, engineering, or technology, share the activities and competitions you’ve participated in. Whether you’ve worked on a research study, developed an app, or competed in a science fair, explain how these experiences fueled your passion for STEM. Consider showcasing programs like the Regeneron Science Talent Search to demonstrate your commitment to these fields.

• Performing and visual arts. Whether you’re a dancer, musician, actor, or artist, BU wants to know how you’ve cultivated your artistic skills. Have you performed in a play, participated in a regional music competition, or displayed your artwork at a community exhibition? Programs like The Congressional Art Competition or Celebrate The West are great ways to demonstrate your artistic accomplishments.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation. If you started a business, launched a nonprofit, or created something impactful, share your journey and the lessons you learned along the way. Maybe you helped a local initiative or organized a fundraiser for a cause. Participate in prestigious programs like LaunchX or the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) to showcase your innovative mindset and entrepreneurial spirit.
• Athletics and sports teams. If you’ve played competitive sports, whether in school or on a club team, highlight your experiences. Did you serve as a team captain, overcome a challenge, or improve your performance? Being involved in programs like AAU Basketball or US Youth Soccer can also showcase your commitment, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
• Cultural programs and diversity initiatives. If you’ve been part of cultural clubs, diversity leadership initiatives, or organized cultural heritage festivals, highlight how you’ve helped promote inclusivity. Joining programs like Model UN can show your commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in your community.

Boston University wants to understand how you’ve made an impact and contributed to your community. Focus on showcasing specific examples of your leadership, dedication, and impact, and demonstrate how your experiences have shaped you as an individual. The more detailed and passionate your examples are, the more they’ll help your application stand out.

5. Secure strong recommendation letters.

Boston University requires one recommendation from your school counselor and one from a teacher as part of your application. These letters are your opportunity to give the admissions committee a closer look at your character, leadership, and contributions beyond your academic achievements.

Tips for securing impactful recommendation letters:

• Choose a teacher who truly knows you. Pick a teacher who has seen you grow and succeed in their class. If they’ve noticed your ability to take on challenges or lead projects, they’ll be able to provide a meaningful, personalized letter.
• Build a relationship with your counselor. If your school has a large student body, take time to introduce yourself early. Discuss your academic interests, challenges you’ve overcome, and what excites you about learning. This will help your counselor provide a more detailed, personalized recommendation.
• Give plenty of time. Teachers and counselors often have many letters to write, so be sure to ask for recommendations at least a month before the deadline. Giving them enough time makes sure they can craft a thoughtful, detailed letter.
• Provide relevant information. Share a list of your achievements, leadership roles, and any special projects or initiatives you’ve been involved in. The more details you provide, the more specific and personalized your recommendation letters will be.
• Show appreciation. After receiving your recommendation letter, a thank-you note or gesture of gratitude can make a big difference. It reinforces your appreciation for their support and helps maintain a strong relationship.

While Boston University requires two letters, you can submit an additional one if it provides fresh insight into your qualifications. This could come from a mentor, coach, or employer. Just make sure that any extra letter offers something new and adds value to your overall application. It’s generally best to focus on quality rather than quantity.

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If Boston University is your top choice, applying Early Decision could give your application a boost. According to the school’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024 (Class of 2027), Boston University received 6,866 ED applications and admitted 1,791 students. 

This puts the ED acceptance rate at around 26.1%, which is significantly higher than Boston University’s overall acceptance rate of 10.8% for that cycle. If you’re sure Boston University is where you want to go, applying ED can improve your chances of admission.

By applying ED, you show Boston University that you’re fully committed to attending if admitted. This level of commitment can help your application stand out. But remember, ED is binding, which means if you’re accepted, you must attend and withdraw all other college applications.

Before submitting your application, make sure Boston University is the right fit for you in every way—academically, socially, and financially. Talk to your family, review financial aid options, and make sure you’re prepared to make that commitment.

ED can be a great way to strengthen your application, but only if you’re absolutely certain that Boston University is where you want to spend the next four years.

Boston University Application Deadlines

Keeping track of application deadlines is key to a stress-free college application process. Whether you’re applying Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision, knowing these important dates will help you stay on top of things and submit your best application.

To stay organized, mark these key dates on your calendar, set reminders, and give yourself plenty of time to work on your application. Planning ahead now will save you from any last-minute stress later on!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get into Boston University with low test scores?

Yes! Boston University is test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If standardized testing is not your strong suit, don’t worry. Your application will still be considered holistically. Focus on strengthening other areas like your GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays.

If you do decide to submit scores, aim for at least a 1500+ on the SAT or a 34+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores are lower than you’d like, consider retaking the test to improve your chances.

2. What GPA do I need to get into Boston University?

Boston University does not have an official minimum GPA requirement. However, for a competitive application, you should aim for at least a 3.9 or higher. Most admitted students have strong academic records and have taken challenging coursework such as AP, IB, or honors classes.

If your GPA isn’t as high as you’d like, don’t worry. Boston University evaluates applications holistically, considering extracurricular involvement, leadership experience, and strong recommendation letters to balance out your application.

3. Does applying Early Decision improve my chances of getting in?

Yes! Applying Early Decision can give you an edge in the admissions process. For the Fall 2023 cycle, Boston University received 6,866 ED applications and admitted 1,791 students, resulting in an ED acceptance rate of about 26.1%. This is significantly higher than that cycle’s overall acceptance rate of 10.8%, making ED a great option if BU is your top choice.

Keep in mind, ED is binding. If you are accepted, you must enroll and withdraw applications to other schools. Be sure Boston University is the right fit for you before committing.

4. Is Boston University test-optional?

Yes! Boston University has a test-optional policy. You can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you believe your scores will strengthen your application, feel free to include them. However, if standardized tests are not your strength, leaving them out will not put you at a disadvantage. Boston University reviews applications holistically, considering your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters.

5. How much does it cost to attend Boston University?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, Boston University’s tuition is $66,670 per year. When you add in housing, meals, books, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance can reach around $90,207.

While that number might sound a bit high, Boston University meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. With need-based financial aid and merit scholarships available, BU works to make college more affordable for students.

Takeaways

Thinking about applying to Boston University? Here’s a quick look at what really stands out:

• With an acceptance rate of 11.1%, Boston University is very selective. To stand out, your application should showcase your academic excellence, leadership, and your active involvement in both your school and community.
• Aim for a GPA of 3.9 or higher and challenge yourself with advanced courses like AP, IB, or honors classes to show you can handle BU’s rigorous curriculum.
• Test scores are optional, but if you choose to submit them, aim for high marks. A competitive SAT score is 1500+, and a strong ACT score is 34+.
• Your essays and extracurricular activities should reflect your personal journey. What have you achieved? How have you evolved? Boston University looks for students who are thoughtful, engaged, and who can contribute something unique to the campus.
• Feeling overwhelmed? College applications can be a lot, but working with a college admissions consultant can help take the stress out of the process. A solid application strategy can make a huge difference when it comes to impressing BU’s admissions team.