What is Boston University's acceptance rate?

Boston University's acceptance rate is 14%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for BU?

Admitted students typically score about 1400–1530 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Boston University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Boston University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (14%)

14%

Acceptance rate

1400–1530

SAT (mid 50%)

32–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into BU?

With a 14% acceptance rate, Boston University is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 18,000 undergraduates (urban setting) in Boston, MA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

SAT: admitted students land around 1400–1530 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 32–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.85. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
Essays: at BU's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $64,400 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Engineering · Business · Communications · Pre-Med

See BU’s supplemental essay guide

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BU admissions FAQ

What is Boston University's acceptance rate?: Boston University's acceptance rate is 14%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for BU?: Admitted students typically score about 1400–1530 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 32–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is BU test-optional?: Boston University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

BU official website
BU on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Boston University’s official admissions site.