Lana Oconnell
Boston University (BU) is a private teaching and research university located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts. With over 18,000 undergraduates, BU offers a diverse and vibrant student community. The gender distribution is approximately 42% male and 58% female, with a small student-to-faculty ratio of 10:1, allowing for personalized engagement and rigorous academics. The campus is integrated with the city, providing a unique blend of traditional college and urban experiences. Students can join numerous clubs and organizations, participate in NCAA Division 1 sports teams, and explore cultural groups such as Hillel House. With a focus on research and internship opportunities, BU graduates are ranked highly employable, showcasing the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Total undergraduate enrollment | 18,656 (fall 2023) |
| Gender distribution | 41.9% male, 58.1% female |
| Students living in college-owned or -affiliated housing | 69% |
| Students living off campus | 31% |
| Students who attend varsity sporting events | 54% |
| Students who say Greek life is average | 54% |
| Overall school ranking | #41 (National Universities, 2025 edition) |
| Tuition and fees | $68,102 |
| Total number of students | Nearly 38,000 |
| Total number of faculty members | More than 4,000 |
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What You'll Learn
Student diversity
Boston University (BU) has a diverse student body, with a mix of different races, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, religions, socio-economic statuses, sexual orientations, languages, and geographies.
The total enrollment at BU is approximately 32,718 students, with 16,026 undergraduates and 10,246 graduate students. The undergraduate population is made up of 59% women and 41% men, while graduate students are 57% women and 43% men. There are approximately 19,034 female students and 13,684 male students overall. The student body is predominantly White, with 57% of students being minorities or people of colour (BIPOC). BU students speak 30 different languages at home, come from 47 cities and towns, and 46 states, and 138 countries, with the majority of international students coming from China, India, and South Korea. 78.42% of students come from out of state, and 25.02% are international.
BU has a lower gender diversity than other US colleges, with 30% more female students than male. However, it ranks 20 out of 2,183 for geographic diversity. The university serves a high number of out-of-state students, with 87% of the student body residing outside of Massachusetts or from other countries. BU also has a lower proportion of traditional-age students (18-21 years old), with 32.03% in this age bracket, compared to the national average of 60%.
In terms of socio-economic diversity, 19% of students are considered low-income as they receive Federal Pell Grant Aid.
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Academic rigour
Boston University (BU) is a private teaching and research university located in Boston, offering vast and varied academic opportunities. With 10 undergraduate schools and colleges, 300+ majors and minors, 650+ global courses, and 180+ study abroad programs, BU provides a rigorous and challenging academic environment for its students.
The university has a strong focus on research and professional development, with $1 million in research funding available for undergraduates and thousands of research and internship opportunities, both in the US and internationally. This emphasis on academic rigour prepares BU graduates to lead in a globalised world, with graduates ranked #12 for employability in the US.
The academic rigour at BU is further enhanced by its distinguished faculty members. Students have praised the professors for being experts in their respective fields, passionate about teaching, and accessible for building relationships. The quality of the professors contributes to a stimulating and engaging academic environment, challenging students to excel in their classes and pursue various opportunities for professional growth.
The large number of majors, minors, and global courses available allows students to explore a wide range of academic interests and find their niche. With over 450 student groups, students can also stay engaged and connected to their peers with similar interests. Additionally, BU's location in the heart of Boston exposes students to a diverse mosaic of languages, cultures, and religions, enriching their overall academic experience.
Overall, Boston University offers a rigorous academic experience characterised by challenging coursework, renowned professors, extensive research and internship opportunities, a diverse range of academic programs, and a vibrant campus life, all of which contribute to the intellectual growth and future success of its students.
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Extracurricular activities
Boston University offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for students to engage in. With over 450 student groups on campus, there is something for everyone at BU, including various clubs, societies, and performance groups.
Student Groups and Clubs
BU offers a diverse array of student groups and clubs that cater to a variety of interests. Students can join existing groups or start their own. Some popular clubs include the Greek Culture Club, which explores Greek culture through outings, food, and entertainment, and provides a welcoming space for Jewish students and those interested in Greek culture. The Baking Club brings together students who share a passion for baking, with monthly bake sales and outings to local food pantries. The Book Club is perfect for avid readers or those looking to start reading, providing a welcoming environment to discuss books and connect with others. BU also has a Philosophy Club, Model UN, and a student newspaper, among others.
Performance Groups
For students interested in the performing arts, BU offers performance centers for theater majors and those who enjoy acting. There is also a comedy group called Liquid Funn, which puts on improv shows, and a television show produced on campus.
Sports and Athletics
BU has a range of sports teams that students can join or cheer for, including hockey, basketball, soccer, and ultimate frisbee. The BU crew team participates in the Head of the Charles Regatta, the world's largest rowing race held annually in Boston. There are also intramural sports options like broom ball and Quidditch, and students can join the BU crew team for the Race for the Cure.
Political and Community Engagement
Students interested in politics and community service have numerous opportunities at BU. The university promotes student leadership and political activism through student government at three levels: Boston University Student Government, School and College Student Governments, and Residence Hall Associations (RHAs). Additionally, BU sponsors dozens of community service programs with the city of Boston each year, including the Community Service Center (CSC), which offers volunteer opportunities to over 1,500 people annually. The First-Year Student Outreach Project (FYSOP) allows incoming students to move in early and participate in service projects, choosing from 11 different issue areas. The Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program sends students to volunteer in various parts of the US and Puerto Rico during their break.
Social Events
BU Central, located at the George Sherman Union, hosts free concerts and events every Friday night and some weekends. One of the biggest events is 'Splash', where all the clubs on campus advertise to new members and offer free items. There is also a Global Day of Service, where students and alumni volunteer worldwide.
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Social life
The social life of students at Boston University (BU) is varied, with engaging campus culture, diverse clubs, and activities, a vibrant party culture, and varying degrees of involvement in Greek life.
BU has a total undergraduate enrollment of 18,656 students, with 41.9% male students and 58.1% female students. 69% of students live in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing, while 31% live off-campus.
The social scene at BU can be intense, with a vibrant party culture. While some students report feeling isolated due to the "lack of a real campus," others find the campus culture engaging and diverse. The university encourages student participation in arts, athletics, clubs, school leadership, community service, and school-wide events to pursue non-academic interests, stay healthy, enjoy creative outlets, reduce stress, and build community.
There are many clubs and bars nearby that students can enjoy. Additionally, BU's sports teams compete in the NCAA I, and students can participate in various sports, including basketball, diving, golf, ice hockey, lacrosse, rowing, soccer, swimming, and tennis.
When it comes to substance use, most students at BU partake in some form of drugs or alcohol, but it is not a requirement to fit in. While 50% of students feel that you will feel awkward if you don't drink, only 14% say that you will be left out if you don't partake.
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Student support
Boston University Academy offers a wide range of student support services to ensure students' academic and personal development. The university's support programs take into account individual students' needs and learning styles, with the goal of providing a positive high school experience.
One key aspect of student support at Boston University is the counselling program. This program includes weekly class meetings, one-on-one support, assistance with transitioning between grade levels, and support for students with learning differences. The school psychologist is also available to assist students with any challenges they may encounter during their high school journey, both inside and outside the classroom.
The university liaison plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between the academy and the university instructors. They provide biweekly guidance to juniors transitioning to the university program and communicate feedback to students, advisors, and parents. Additionally, peer advisors help new students integrate into the BUA community by introducing them to community norms and rules and fostering school spirit.
BUA also offers academic resources such as the Writing Center, where students can receive guidance on writing and language learning. Students can schedule appointments with teachers like Dr. Harrington, Dr. Larash, and Dr. Schantz, who offer their expertise to improve students' writing skills. Furthermore, the Learning Specialist, Ms. Woo, provides one-on-one support to students seeking academic coaching and assistance with learning accommodations.
The Student Support Team can be contacted by students and families seeking additional information about resources and support. Boston University Academy is committed to providing comprehensive student support to promote the success and well-being of its students.
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Frequently asked questions
As of Fall 2023, Boston University had an undergraduate enrollment of 18,656 students, with a gender distribution of 41.9% male students and 58.1% female students. 69% of students live in college-affiliated housing, while 31% live off campus.
With 10 undergraduate schools and colleges, 300+ majors and minors, over 650 global courses, $1 million in research funding for undergraduates, and 180+ study abroad programs, Boston University offers vast and varied academic opportunities.
Boston University has over 500 student clubs, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and a thriving arts scene with many training programs and venues for live performances. Social life also revolves around sports, with 24 NCAA Division I varsity sports teams, including the beloved Terrier ice hockey team.
While Boston University offers a great social life without drugs or alcohol, 77% of students report that you will feel awkward or left out if you don't drink or partake in some form.
