College Comparison
Boston University vs Southern Methodist University
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Boston, MA
Dallas, TX
Total Enrollment
37,737
12,116
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
7,285
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
11:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
63.4%
Average GPA
3.79
3.66
SAT Range
1420–1530
1340–1490
ACT Range
32–34
30–34
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$60
Total Applicants
78,769
15,245
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$74,076
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$41,778
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$55,012
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$55,012
Room & Board
$19,020
$19,064
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
67.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$37,520
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
82.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
75.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
91.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$78,354
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Southern Methodist is in Dallas, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $41,778 at Southern Methodist University. Boston University is $14,782 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Southern Methodist University, the typical SAT range is 1340-1490. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Southern Methodist University has a graduation rate of 82%. 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 Southern Methodist University has a ratio of 11:1. Boston University 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 Southern Methodist University, 67% of students receive aid with an average grant of $37,520.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $78,354 for Southern Methodist University 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. Southern Methodist University is located in Dallas, TX in a suburb: large setting.

