College Comparison
Bates 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
Lewiston, ME
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
1,760
37,737
Undergrad Enrollment
1,760
18,805
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
13.3%
11.1%
Average GPA
3.92
3.79
SAT Range
1420–1530
1420–1530
ACT Range
31–34
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$80
Total Applicants
10,027
78,769
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$79,846
$80,070
Avg Net Price
$30,703
$26,996
Tuition (In-State)
$61,066
$61,050
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,066
$61,050
Room & Board
$18,780
$19,020
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
49.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$58,809
$61,848
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
88.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
91.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$69,498
$83,238
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Explore by Location
Bates is in Lewiston, ME
Boston is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Bates College is $30,703 per year, compared to $26,996 at Boston University. Boston University is $3,707 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Bates College typically score between 1420-1530 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.
Bates College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%. Bates College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Bates College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Boston University has a ratio of 10:1. Bates College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Bates College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $58,809. At Boston University, 49% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,848.
The median earnings for Bates College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $69,498, 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.
Bates College is located in Lewiston, ME in a city: small setting. Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.

