Boston University: Acceptance Rate and Your Chances
Updated June 2026 · CollegeCalcAI
| Acceptance rate | 14% |
| SAT (75th percentile) | 1500 |
| ACT (75th percentile) | 34 |
| Location | MA |
| School type | Private |
Boston University is a large private research university in Boston, Massachusetts. It accepts about 14% of applicants, which is a significant shift from where it stood just a decade ago. Competition for admission has grown considerably in recent years.
Calculate your chances at Boston University free →How hard is it to get into Boston University?
BU's 14% acceptance rate reflects how much more selective the school has become. For every 100 applications submitted, only about 14 result in an offer. The university receives applications from a large and academically strong pool of students from across the country and internationally.
Because BU is large with many colleges and programs, the competitiveness can vary somewhat by school. But across the board, getting in requires a strong record.
Test scores that make you competitive
The SAT 75th percentile for admitted students sits at 1500, and the ACT 75th percentile is 34. Those are high marks. Scoring near or above those figures puts you in a competitive position. BU has offered test-optional options in recent years, so check their current policy, but strong scores are generally an asset here.
What Boston University looks for
BU considers your grades, course rigor, test scores if submitted, activities, essays, and recommendations. A strong GPA in demanding classes is the starting point. Extracurricular depth matters more than breadth. Students who can explain clearly why they are interested in BU specifically, rather than sending a generic why-this-school essay, tend to do better. With a school as large as BU, showing that you have thought about which college or program you want to enter can help.
Estimate your chances at Boston University
CollegeCalcAI at collegecalcai.com gives you a free, personalized estimate of your chances at Boston University. Just enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurricular activities to see an honest picture of your odds.
Frequently asked questions
What is Boston University's acceptance rate?
Boston University accepts approximately 14% of applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do I need for Boston University?
The SAT 75th percentile for admitted students is 1500 and the ACT 75th percentile is 34. BU has offered test-optional pathways, so check their current policy.
Is Boston University hard to get into?
Yes. BU has become significantly more selective in recent years. A 14% acceptance rate means most applicants are not admitted.
See your real odds at Boston University
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Sources: U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS), NCES, and publicly reported Common Data Sets. Acceptance rate and score figures are rounded and reflect recent admissions cycles. How we calculate chances.