College Comparison
Amherst College vs Boston University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Amherst, MA
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
1,914
37,737
Undergrad Enrollment
1,914
18,805
Student-Faculty Ratio
6:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
9.0%
11.1%
Average GPA
3.90
3.79
SAT Range
1490–1580
1420–1530
ACT Range
33–35
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$80
Total Applicants
13,743
78,769
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,890
$80,070
Avg Net Price
$18,246
$26,996
Tuition (In-State)
$63,500
$61,050
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$63,500
$61,050
Room & Board
$18,390
$19,020
% Receiving Aid
59.0%
49.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$68,591
$61,848
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
94.0%
88.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
97.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$77,644
$83,238
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Amherst is in Amherst, MA
Boston is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Amherst College is $18,246 per year, compared to $26,996 at Boston University. Amherst College is $8,750 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 University, the typical SAT range is 1420-1530. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Amherst College has a graduation rate of 94%, while Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%. 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 University 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 University, 49% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,848.
The median earnings for Amherst College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $77,644, compared to $83,238 for Boston University graduates. Graduates from Boston University 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 University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.

