College Comparison
Boston University vs University of Chicago
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Boston, MA
Chicago, IL
Total Enrollment
37,737
18,566
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
7,598
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
5:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
4.5%
Average GPA
3.79
4.00
SAT Range
1420–1530
1510–1580
ACT Range
32–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$75
Total Applicants
78,769
43,612
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$81,288
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$18,967
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$61,179
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$61,179
Room & Board
$19,020
$20,109
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
47.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$62,300
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
96.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
91.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$91,885
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Chicago is in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $18,967 at University of Chicago. University of Chicago is $8,029 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At University of Chicago, the typical SAT range is 1510-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while University of Chicago has a graduation rate of 96%. University of Chicago has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while University of Chicago has a ratio of 5:1. University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago, 47% of students receive aid with an average grant of $62,300.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $91,885 for University of Chicago graduates. Graduates from University of Chicago 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. University of Chicago is located in Chicago, IL in a city: large setting.

