Boston University vs New York University: A Data-Driven Comparison
Both universities present highly competitive admission environments, with NYU slightly more selective at 12.46% versus BU's 14.37% acceptance rate. This translates to roughly 1,800 fewer admits per 10,000 applicants at NYU.
Cost and Value
BU carries higher sticker prices at $65,168 compared to NYU's $60,438 tuition. However, BU delivers better financial aid, resulting in an average net price of $26,996 versus NYU's $35,035. Graduates from both schools earn similar amounts after ten years, with BU alumni averaging $83,238 and NYU alumni $82,509. BU students graduate with slightly more debt ($23,250 vs $20,500).
Academic Environment
NYU offers smaller classes with an 8:1 student-faculty ratio compared to BU's 10:1. NYU's larger enrollment (29,430 vs 17,850) provides more course variety and research opportunities. Both schools maintain strong retention rates above 94%.
Campus Experience
BU operates a traditional campus along the Charles River with NCAA Division I athletics, creating a conventional college atmosphere. NYU integrates directly into Greenwich Village without a defined campus boundary, offering urban immersion with Division III sports.
Outcomes
BU achieves a higher six-year graduation rate (90% vs 88.5%), suggesting stronger student support systems or academic preparation.
BU suits students seeking a traditional college experience with strong financial aid in a college town setting, while NYU fits students prioritizing urban integration, smaller classes, and immediate access to internships and cultural opportunities in Manhattan.
Both universities present highly competitive admission environments, with NYU slightly more selective at 12.46% versus BU's 14.37% acceptance rate. This translates to roughly 1,800 fewer admits per 10,000 applicants at NYU.
Cost and Value
BU carries higher sticker prices at $65,168 compared to NYU's $60,438 tuition. However, BU delivers better financial aid, resulting in an average net price of $26,996 versus NYU's $35,035. Graduates from both schools earn similar amounts after ten years, with BU alumni averaging $83,238 and NYU alumni $82,509. BU students graduate with slightly more debt ($23,250 vs $20,500).
Academic Environment
NYU offers smaller classes with an 8:1 student-faculty ratio compared to BU's 10:1. NYU's larger enrollment (29,430 vs 17,850) provides more course variety and research opportunities. Both schools maintain strong retention rates above 94%.
Campus Experience
BU operates a traditional campus along the Charles River with NCAA Division I athletics, creating a conventional college atmosphere. NYU integrates directly into Greenwich Village without a defined campus boundary, offering urban immersion with Division III sports.
Outcomes
BU achieves a higher six-year graduation rate (90% vs 88.5%), suggesting stronger student support systems or academic preparation.
BU suits students seeking a traditional college experience with strong financial aid in a college town setting, while NYU fits students prioritizing urban integration, smaller classes, and immediate access to internships and cultural opportunities in Manhattan.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Boston University | New York University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 14.4% | 12.5% |
| SAT Average | 1,425 | 1,520 |
| Enrollment | 17,850 | 29,430 |
| In-State Tuition | $65,168 | $60,438 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $65,168 | $60,438 |
| Net Price | $26,996 | $35,035 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 90.0% | 88.5% |
| Retention Rate | 94.5% | 95.5% |
| Median Earnings (10yr) | $83,238 | $82,509 |
| Median Debt | $23,250 | $20,500 |
Top Programs by Earnings
Top 5 bachelor's programs at each school, ranked by median graduate earnings.
| Boston University | New York University | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Program | Earnings | Program | Earnings |
| Computer Science. | $84,994 | Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | $94,243 |
| Computer Engineering. | $82,440 | Mathematics and Statistics, Other. | $86,424 |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | $70,829 | Finance and Financial Management Services. | $84,653 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | $68,858 | Business/Commerce, General. | $82,507 |
| Biomedical/Medical Engineering. | $67,660 | Computer and Information Sciences, General. | $79,957 |