College Comparison
Boston College vs Princeton 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
Princeton, NJ
Total Enrollment
15,432
9,137
Undergrad Enrollment
10,314
5,813
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
16.4%
4.6%
Average GPA
4.00
4.00
SAT Range
1440–1540
1510–1580
ACT Range
33–35
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$70
Total Applicants
35,037
40,468
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$81,866
$77,660
Avg Net Price
$39,866
$10,555
Tuition (In-State)
$62,950
$57,410
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$62,950
$57,410
Room & Board
$18,916
$20,250
% Receiving Aid
40.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$56,971
$68,727
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
92.0%
98.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
90.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
96.0%
98.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$103,937
$110,066
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Chestnut Hill, MA
Princeton is in Princeton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston College is $39,866 per year, compared to $10,555 at Princeton University. Princeton University is $29,311 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston College typically score between 1440-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Princeton University, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston College has a graduation rate of 92%, while Princeton University has a graduation rate of 98%. Princeton University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Princeton University has a ratio of 5:1. Princeton 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 Princeton University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,727.
The median earnings for Boston College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $103,937, compared to $110,066 for Princeton University graduates. Graduates from Princeton University 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. Princeton University is located in Princeton, NJ in a city: small setting.

