College Comparison
Boston 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
Chestnut Hill, MA
Boston, MA
Total Enrollment
15,432
37,737
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
18,805
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
10:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
11.1%
Average GPA
4.00
3.79
SAT Range
1440–1540
1420–1530
ACT Range
33–35
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$80
Total Applicants
35,037
78,769
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$80,070
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$26,996
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$61,050
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$61,050
Room & Board
$18,916
$19,020
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
49.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$61,848
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
88.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
83.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
95.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$83,238
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Boston is in Boston, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $26,996 at Boston University. Boston University is $12,870 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 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.
Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%. Boston College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Boston University has a ratio of 10:1. Boston University offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston College, 40% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $56,971. At Boston University, 49% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,848.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $83,238 for Boston University graduates. Graduates from Boston College tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston College is located in Chestnut Hill, MA in a city: small setting. Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting.