College Comparison
Boston University vs Williams 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
Williamstown, MA
Total Enrollment
37,737
2,164
Undergrad Enrollment
18,805
2,115
Student-Faculty Ratio
10:1
6:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
11.1%
8.3%
Average GPA
3.79
3.90
SAT Range
1420–1530
1490–1570
ACT Range
32–34
34–35
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$80
$65
Total Applicants
78,769
15,411
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$80,070
$78,710
Avg Net Price
$26,996
$14,852
Tuition (In-State)
$61,050
$61,450
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$61,050
$61,450
Room & Board
$19,020
$17,260
% Receiving Aid
49.0%
54.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$61,848
$68,966
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
88.0%
94.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
88.0%
Retention Rate
95.0%
97.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$83,238
$88,665
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Explore by Location
Boston is in Boston, MA
Williams is in Williamstown, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Boston University is $26,996 per year, compared to $14,852 at Williams College. Williams College is $12,144 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Boston University typically score between 1420-1530 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Williams College, the typical SAT range is 1490-1570. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Boston University has a graduation rate of 88%, while Williams College has a graduation rate of 94%. Williams College has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Boston University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, while Williams College has a ratio of 6:1. Williams 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 Williams College, 54% of students receive aid with an average grant of $68,966.
The median earnings for Boston University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $83,238, compared to $88,665 for Williams College graduates. Graduates from Williams College 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. Williams College is located in Williamstown, MA in a town: fringe setting.