
Boston University is a leading private research institution with two primary campuses in Boston and programs worldwide. The university has consistently been a popular choice for international students. In 2005, international student enrollment at BU remained high, even as the total number of international students in the US declined slightly. As of 2003-2004, BU had the eighth-largest international population of any major university in the US, with 4,541 international students. In 2021, over 26,000 international students attended either Northeastern University or Boston University, with the majority hailing from China or India.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students at Boston University | 4,541 |
| Boston University's ranking in the US for international student population | 8th |
| Number of international students in Massachusetts in 2021 | 66,200 |
| Number of international students at Northeastern University in Massachusetts | 26,000+ |
| Number of countries represented by Bunker Hill Community College's international students | 90+ |
| Number of international students at Bunker Hill Community College in 2022-2023 | 550 |
| Percentage change in international enrollment rates in the 2004-2005 academic year | -1.3% |
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What You'll Learn
- Boston University has the eighth-largest international population in the US
- International student enrolment at BU remained high in 2005
- BU offers scholarships and awards to international students
- International students at BU must submit a TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test
- BU has a separate office for international students

Boston University has the eighth-largest international population in the US
Boston University (BU) has long been a popular choice for international students. In 2005, BU retained its position as the top institution for foreign and exchange students in Massachusetts and New England, despite a slight decline in international students in the US. BU has maintained its status as a leading private research institution with two primary campuses in Boston and programs worldwide.
BU has the eighth-largest international population of any major university in the US, with 4,541 international students attending in 2003-2004. This number has likely fluctuated over the years, but BU remains a top choice for international students. The university's International Students and Scholars Office plays a critical role in facilitating the transition for prospective and enrolled foreign students. The office ensures students are aware of the changing federal requirements and restrictions, helping them navigate the complexities of studying in the US.
BU's international population primarily comprises students from China and India, the two countries contributing the most international students to Massachusetts institutions. BU's international character and long tradition of enrollment and mobility in both directions have been pivotal in attracting students from abroad. The university's diverse programs, such as the Boston University London Programmes and the Los Angeles Certificate Program, also contribute to its appeal for international students seeking unique educational experiences.
BU's international students are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. The university also offers a select number of awards and scholarships specifically for first-year international students from various geographic regions and academic interests. However, it is important to note that BU does not offer need-based financial assistance to international students, which may impact their overall enrollment numbers.
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International student enrolment at BU remained high in 2005
Boston University (BU) is a leading private research institution with two primary campuses in Boston and programs worldwide. In 2005, BU remained a popular choice for international students, with the university retaining its position as the top institution for foreign and exchange students in Massachusetts and New England.
According to the 2005 Open Doors Report, international enrollment rates in the US declined by 1.3% in the 2004-2005 academic year, the second consecutive year of decline. Despite this, BU's international student enrollment remained high. BU has a long tradition of international enrollment and mobility, with the International Students and Scholars Office playing a critical role in facilitating the transition for foreign students.
In 2003-2004, BU was ranked eighth nationally for the largest international student population, with 4,541 international students. This number may have increased in 2004-2005, as BU remained a top choice for international students. BU's international character and its ability to help foreign students navigate federal requirements and restrictions likely contributed to its continued popularity among international students.
BU's popularity among international students has persisted in recent years. In 2021, Massachusetts ranked fourth in the US for hosting around 66,200 international students, with more than 26,000 of them attending either Northeastern University or BU. BU's diverse programs, such as the Boston University London Programmes and the Los Angeles Certificate Program, continue to attract students from around the world.
International students play a vital role at BU and other colleges, as they generally pay full tuition, subsidizing financial aid for domestic students. BU also offers a select number of awards to first-year international students from various geographic regions, though it does not provide need-based financial assistance to international students.
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BU offers scholarships and awards to international students
Boston University (BU) is a leading private research institution that attracts thousands of international students each year. In fact, BU has the eighth-largest international population of any major university in the United States, with 4,541 international students attending as of 2003-2004. The university has maintained its popularity among international students over the years, even as overall international enrolment rates in the US declined slightly in the 2004-2005 academic year.
To support international students, BU offers a range of scholarships and awards. While need-based financial aid from BU is not currently available to international students, they may be eligible for select merit-based scholarships offered by the university. These scholarships recognise academic, athletic, or artistic achievement, regardless of calculated financial need. BU also offers a wide variety of other merit scholarships, some of which cover full tuition.
The university encourages all students, including international students, to apply for scholarships and financial aid, even if they do not think they may be eligible. To apply for need-based scholarships, students must complete the necessary financial aid forms to determine their financial aid need. In addition to scholarships, BU offers various other forms of financial aid and payment plan options for those who apply and qualify.
BU's International Students and Scholars Office plays a critical role in supporting international students. The office helps all prospective and enrolled foreign students facilitate their transition to BU, keeping them informed of changing federal requirements and ensuring they are aware of any restrictions and requirements.
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International students at BU must submit a TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English Test
Boston University (BU) has a large international student population, with 4,541 international students enrolled as of 2003-2004, making it the eighth-largest international student population of any major university in the US. BU has retained its position as the top institution for foreign and exchange students in Massachusetts and throughout New England.
International students applying to BU must submit their English-language proficiency test scores as part of their application process. BU accepts the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test (DET) as valid English proficiency tests. These tests are required for all international students whose first language is not English, and they must achieve a minimum score to be considered for admission.
The TOEFL iBT Home Edition and the in-person format are both accepted by BU. However, BU does not accept the IELTS Indicator, TOEFL ITP Plus, and TOEFL Essentials exams. For the IELTS, a total score of 7 or higher is required, and BU will review the component scores for consistency. Similarly, for the Duolingo English Test, BU requires both the total score and all subscores, with the most competitive applicants scoring between 125 and 135.
International students can still be admitted to BU if their English proficiency scores are below the required minimum. They can enrol in intensive English courses at the BU Center for English Language & Orientation Programs (CELOP) and continue their studies once they achieve proficiency. Additionally, BU offers optional interviews with InitialView or Vericant as another way to demonstrate English language proficiency.
It is important to note that the School of Public Health (SPH) at BU has specific requirements for international applicants. While TOEFL and IELTS scores are generally required, SPH Admissions will waive this requirement for applicants who have earned a previous degree in specific countries, primarily those where English is the primary language of instruction. International applicants who do not meet the criteria but believe the TOEFL/IELTS requirement should be waived can submit a waiver request form and official supporting documentation demonstrating English proficiency.
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BU has a separate office for international students
Boston University (BU) is a leading private research institution with two primary campuses in Boston and programs around the world. The university has a separate office for international students, known as the International Students and Scholars Office (ISSO). This office plays a critical role in supporting international students at BU.
The ISSO helps all prospective and enrolled international students facilitate their transition to BU. It keeps track of changing federal requirements and communicates them to students. The office also reminds students of any changes in fees, such as a $5 increase in application fees for immigration benefits. In addition, the ISSO provides resources and support for immigration-related processes, as indicated by the ISSOPortal for Student Immigration Processing.
BU's International Students and Scholars Office also offers programs and events specifically for international students. For example, the office hosted an International Student Reception in September, providing an opportunity for international students to connect and receive guidance. The office also organizes workshops, such as the Spring 2025 Workshops, to address relevant topics and ensure that international students have the support they need.
The presence of a dedicated office for international students demonstrates BU's commitment to its diverse student body. It allows the university to provide tailored support and resources, ensuring that international students can navigate the unique challenges they may face during their academic journey. This dedicated support system contributes to BU's popularity among international students and enhances their overall experience at the university.
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Frequently asked questions
As of 2005, there were 4,541 international students at Boston University.
International students applying to Boston University are required to submit the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test as proof of English-language proficiency.
No, Boston University does not offer need-based financial assistance to international students. However, first-year international students are eligible to apply for the Trustee Scholarship, Presidential Scholarship, and Alumni & Friends Scholarship.











































