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14.4%Acceptance
$65,168Tuition
17,850Students
90%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$83,238Earnings
#12 in MassachusettsPrivate nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Cost Details

In-State Tuition
$65,168
Out-of-State Tuition
$65,168
Average Net Price
$26,996
Students Receiving Financial Aid
18.0%
Room & Board (On Campus)
$18,110
Room & Board (Off Campus)
$18,110
Books & Supplies
$1,000
Total Cost of Attendance
$84,278
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
$246/mo
Loan Repayment Rate
82.2%
Students Taking Federal Loans
22.6%
Pell Grant Recipients
18.0%

Net Price by Family Income

Average annual net price after grants and scholarships. Source: U.S. Department of Education

Net price by family income bracket
Family Income Average Net Price
$0 – $30,000 $11,453
$30,001 – $48,000 $11,167
$48,001 – $75,000 $13,639
$75,001 – $110,000 $25,501
$110,001+ $48,018

Cost Estimator

Family Income
Residency
Housing

Cost Overview

Most Boston University families pay far less than the $84,278 sticker price. The average net cost drops to $26,996 after aid, though this varies dramatically by income. Families earning under $30,000 pay just $11,453 annually, while those making over $110,000 face $48,018. Over four years, that ranges from roughly $46,000 to $192,000.

Graduates typically leave with $23,250 in debt, translating to $246 monthly payments. That burden becomes manageable quickly since BU alumni earn a median $55,834 in their first year and $83,238 a decade later. The 82% loan repayment rate reflects this strong earning potential. Only 18% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating BU primarily serves middle and upper-income families.

Lower-income students get the best financial deal here, with generous aid packages making this strong research university surprisingly affordable for those who qualify.

Official Net Price Calculator

Get a personalized cost estimate from Boston University:

Visit Official Net Price Calculator

This links to the school's federally-required net price calculator for a personalized estimate.