College Comparison
Boston University vs Bowdoin College
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Boston, MA
Brunswick, ME
Total Enrollment
37,737
1,881
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
1,881
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
7.1%
Average GPA
3.79
3.93
SAT Range
1420–1530
1470–1550
ACT Range
32–34
33–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$65
Total Applicants
78,769
13,265
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$79,440
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$20,786
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$60,952
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$60,952
Room & Board
$19,020
$18,488
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
55.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$62,872
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$82,735
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Boston is in Boston, MA
Bowdoin is in Brunswick, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $20,786 at Bowdoin College. Bowdoin College is $6,210 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Bowdoin College, the typical SAT range is 1470-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Bowdoin College has a graduation rate of 94%. Bowdoin College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Bowdoin College has a ratio of 9:1. Bowdoin College offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Boston University, 49% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $61,848. At Bowdoin College, 55% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,872.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $82,735 for Bowdoin College graduates. Graduates from Boston University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Boston University is located in Boston, MA in a city: large setting. Bowdoin College is located in Brunswick, ME in a town: fringe setting.