College Comparison
Boston University vs Colby 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
Waterville, ME
Total Enrollment
37,737
2,412
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
2,412
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
9:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
7.1%
Average GPA
3.79
3.90
SAT Range
1420–1530
1460–1550
ACT Range
32–34
32–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$0
Total Applicants
78,769
19,187
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$78,730
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$23,939
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$60,840
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$60,840
Room & Board
$19,020
$17,890
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
45.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$69,201
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
87.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
82.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$80,490
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Colby is in Waterville, ME
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $23,939 at Colby College. Colby College is $3,057 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Colby College, the typical SAT range is 1460-1550. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Colby College has a graduation rate of 87%. Boston University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Colby College has a ratio of 9:1. Colby 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 Colby College, 45% of students receive aid with an average grant of $69,201.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $80,490 for Colby 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. Colby College is located in Waterville, ME in a town: remote setting.