College Comparison
Amherst College vs Boston College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Chestnut Hill, MA
Total Enrollment
1,914
15,432
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
10,314
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
16.4%
Average GPA
3.90
4.00
SAT Range
1490–1580
1440–1540
ACT Range
33–35
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$80
Total Applicants
13,743
35,037
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$81,866
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$39,866
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$62,950
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$62,950
Room & Board
$18,390
$18,916
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
40.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$56,971
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
92.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
96.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$103,937
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Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $39,866 at Boston College. Amherst College is $21,620 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490-1580 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Boston College, the typical SAT range is 1440-1540. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%. Amherst College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Amherst College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 6:1, while Boston College has a ratio of 10:1. Amherst College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Amherst College, 59% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $68,591. At Boston College, 40% of students receive aid with an average grant of $56,971.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $103,937 for Boston College graduates. Graduates from Boston College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Amherst College is located in Amherst, MA in a city: small setting. Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, MA in a city: small setting.