Overview
Bentley University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Waltham, Massachusetts. The school accepts 57.9% of applicants and enrolls 4,288 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 57.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,339
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,258–1,420
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 30
- Total Enrollment
- 4,288
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Bentley wants to see how you connect business concepts to real-world impact, so your essays should showcase specific examples of leadership, entrepreneurship, or problem-solving rather than abstract career goals. The school's Business Ethics and Social Responsibility program offers unique opportunities to discuss how you plan to use business for social good, while the Cronin Office of Experiential Learning provides access to internships and co-ops that you can reference as future goals.
Your application should highlight quantitative skills and analytical thinking since Bentley emphasizes data-driven decision making across all programs. If you have experience with coding, statistical analysis, or financial modeling, mention it prominently. The school's Trading Room and CIS Sandbox give students hands-on experience with real market data and technology development, making these perfect topics for supplemental essays about why Bentley specifically appeals to you.
Bentley operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in the cycle when more spots remain available. The Honors Program requires a separate application with additional essays focusing on intellectual curiosity and community involvement. Your honors essay should address specific faculty research or programs you want to join rather than generic statements about academic challenge.
Campus culture centers heavily around pre-professional networking and career preparation. Students here are competitive but collaborative, often forming study groups for challenging courses like Corporate Finance and Operations Research. You'll fit well if you're comfortable in business-casual environments and enjoy discussing market trends, startup ideas, or current events. The student body skews toward driven, career-focused individuals who participate actively in business fraternities, consulting clubs, and entrepreneurship competitions.
Submit demonstrated interest through campus visits, information sessions, or connecting with admissions representatives at college fairs. Bentley tracks engagement and factors it into decisions. Your supplemental essays should reference specific professors, research centers, or student organizations you've researched. Avoid writing about Bentley's location near Boston unless you can connect it to specific internship opportunities or industry connections you plan to pursue.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $38,787/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $58,150
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 88.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $120,959/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 92.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bentley University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Bentley University has a test-optional policy, meaning standardized test scores are not required for admission. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Bentley University?
Bentley University offers Early Decision I (November 15), Early Decision II (January 15), and Regular Decision (January 15) application deadlines. Early Action is not available at Bentley.
Can you transfer to Bentley University as a sophomore or junior?
Bentley University accepts transfer students for fall and spring admission. Transfer applicants must have completed at least 12 college credits and submit college transcripts along with their application.
Does Bentley University have binding early admission options?
Bentley University offers Early Decision I and Early Decision II, both of which are binding commitments. Students accepted through either Early Decision program must withdraw applications from other schools and enroll at Bentley.