Boston University's Annual Student Application Numbers Revealed

Boston University is a highly competitive private research university in Boston, Massachusetts. It is one of the largest independent, nonprofit universities in the country, with a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,656 students as of Fall 2023. The university has a low acceptance rate of 11% and an early application deadline of January 6.

Tens of thousands of high school students seek admission to Boston University each year, with the number of applicants for the Fall 2024 term coming from all 50 states in the US and 167 countries worldwide.

Boston University's application deadline is 6 January

Boston University is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts, with a history dating back to 1839. It is one of the largest independent, nonprofit universities in the country, with nearly 38,000 students and more than 4,000 faculty members. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across 17 schools and colleges.

The application process for Boston University can be competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 11%. While test scores are not required for admission, they are considered if submitted. Applicants are also evaluated based on their GPA, high school class rank, and letters of recommendation.

The university has a comprehensive list of deadlines for different types of applicants, including international students, transfer students, and those applying for financial aid. It is important for prospective students to be aware of these deadlines and plan their applications accordingly.

Boston University's graduate programs have their own set of application requirements and deadlines, which vary depending on the specific program and semester of enrolment. The application process typically takes four to six weeks, and international students are advised to apply at least three months in advance to allow for visa processing.

With its prestigious reputation, diverse academic offerings, and vibrant campus life, Boston University attracts students from all over the world. The university's location along the Charles River provides a scenic backdrop for its students, who benefit from access to numerous resources and opportunities both on and off-campus.

The university's acceptance rate is 11%

Boston University is a highly selective institution with an acceptance rate of 11%. The university receives tens of thousands of applications each year from students across the world and every state in the US. The applicant pool for the class of 2028 included students from 167 countries and all 50 states.

The university's selectivity is reflected in the academic achievements of its incoming students. For instance, 91% of the students in the class of 2028 ranked in the top 10% of their high school class. The university also has a strong focus on diversity, with 23% of the class of 2028 being international students and 21% identifying as being from traditionally underrepresented racial and ethnic groups.

Boston University's holistic admissions process considers a range of factors beyond academic performance, including letters of recommendation, essays, and extracurricular activities. The university seeks to bring together a diverse and highly motivated student body that contributes to the vibrant campus community.

The university's selectivity is further demonstrated by the academic achievements of its graduates. Boston University alumni have achieved numerous notable firsts in US history, including producing the first person born into slavery to earn a Ph.D. and the first African American in the US to earn an MD. The university has also produced nine Nobel Laureates, 23 Pulitzer Prize winners, 10 Rhodes Scholars, and many other distinguished alumni.

Applicants must submit two essays as part of their application

Boston University Application Essays

As part of the application process, students must submit two essays. This is a crucial part of the application as it gives applicants the opportunity to tell their story and showcase their writing skills.

The first essay should focus on the applicant's academic achievements and activities, both inside and outside the classroom. This essay should highlight the student's intellectual curiosity, motivation, and how they would contribute to the diverse BU community. Applicants should also showcase their knowledge of the university and explain why BU is the right fit for them.

The second essay should be more creative and reflect the applicant's personality, background, and unique life experiences. This essay is designed to give admissions officers a glimpse into the applicant's personal life, values, and how they would enrich the campus community. Applicants should feel free to be creative and think outside the box to make their essay stand out.

In addition to the essays, applicants are also required to submit a high school transcript, counselor recommendation, school report form, and optional standardized test scores. The application fee is $80, but fee waivers are available for those who need financial assistance.

Boston University has an acceptance rate of 11%, making it a highly selective institution. The university received tens of thousands of applications for the fall 2024 semester, with 91% of enrolled students ranking in the top 10% of their high school class. Therefore, a well-crafted and thoughtful essay is essential for applicants to make a strong impression and increase their chances of admission.

BU offers a fee waiver for those who need it

Boston University (BU) is a private research university in Boston, Massachusetts, with an acceptance rate of 11%. The university has a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,656 (fall 2023) and offers bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, doctorates, and medical, dental, business, and law degrees through 17 schools and colleges on three urban campuses. BU is one of the largest independent, nonprofit universities in the country and charges tuition and fees of $68,102.

BU understands that the application fee can be a financial burden for some students and offers a fee waiver for those who need it. The university is committed to ensuring that the application fee does not pose a barrier to anyone who wishes to apply for admission. The fee waiver is available for both domestic and international applicants who meet certain criteria.

For domestic applicants, BU offers fee waivers for those with documented financial hardships. This includes applicants who have received a Pell Grant within the past year, have a low Expected Family Contribution (EFC) or Student Aid Index (SAI), or are currently participating in a U.S. government low-income aid program. Additionally, female applicants applying to specific STEM programs and first-generation applicants may also be eligible for a fee waiver.

International applicants can also request a fee waiver, but the process is slightly different. International applicants must contact the department directly to inquire about the possibility of a fee waiver. The Graduate School's central admission office does not offer fee waivers for international applicants based on unfavorable currency exchange rates, low income, or other financial challenges. It is important to note that not all programs offer application fee waivers, and requests must be submitted before the application deadline.

BU is dedicated to supporting students from all backgrounds and ensuring that anyone who wishes to apply has the opportunity to do so. The fee waiver process is designed to reduce financial barriers and make the application process more accessible.

The university is test-optional for first-year applicants

Boston University has an acceptance rate of just 11%, and applicants are required to submit a range of credentials as part of their application. However, the university is test-optional for first-year applicants applying for admission through fall 2028 and spring 2029. This policy applies to all undergraduate schools and colleges at Boston University, as well as all scholarship programs.

Prospective students must decide for themselves whether or not to include standardized test scores with their application. The university asks students to consider their academic record, their contributions both in and out of the classroom, and whether they feel their experiences reflect their academic ability and potential. This decision cannot be changed once the application has been submitted.

If applicants do choose to include test scores, Boston University accepts self-reported scores on the application form. Official test scores via the testing agency, or through the self-report form on the MyBU Applicant Portal, will be required before enrolment. BU superscores both the SAT and ACT, taking the highest score from each section, and recommends including all scores if an applicant has taken more than one test or retakes.

Boston University has a holistic admissions process, and decisions are never based solely on one factor, such as an SAT or ACT score. The move to test-optional adds weight to the important qualities and characteristics that focus more on the applicant and their academic and personal accomplishments.

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