Boston University
Boston, United States • Founded 1869 • QS 2027 #94
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: bu.edu
Overview
Founded in 1869, the Boston University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Boston (population range of 500,000-1,000,000 inhabitants), Massachusetts.
This institution also has branch campuses in Los Angeles, Washington DC, London, Paris and Sydney. Officially accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Boston University (BU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution.
Boston University (BU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 155-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
The acceptance rate range is 10-19% making this US higher education organization an extremely selective institution.
International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. BU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Where to find Boston University, plus its phone, email, website, and social media links.
Academic Details
Enrolment, faculty headcount, and accreditation data for Boston University are listed below.
Academic Structures
Boston University's academic structure — schools, colleges, and divisions — is listed below.
Unit 23 items
- Arvind and Chandan Nandlal Kilachand Honors College
- College of Arts and Sciences
- College of Communication
- College of Engineering
- College of Fine Arts
- College of General Studies
- College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Sargent College
- Division of Extended Education
- Division of Military Education
- Faculty of Computing & Data Sciences
- Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies
- Graduate Medical Sciences
- Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
- Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
- Metropolitan College
- Questrom School of Business
- School of Hospitality Administration
- School of Law
- School of Medicine
- School of Public Health
- School of Social Work
- School of Theology
- Wheelock College of Education and Human Development
Programs Offered
Browse Boston University's programmes by level, or filter by name.
183 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 61 programmes
Showing 10 of 61.
Master's Degree 76 programmes
Showing 10 of 76.
Doctorate 37 programmes
Showing 10 of 37.
Professional Doctorate 3 programmes
Certificate 1 programme
Postgraduate Certificate 5 programmes
How to apply to Boston University
The application path for Boston University, in five steps.
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1
Research programmes at Boston University
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. Boston University runs 183 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Before applying to Boston University, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for United States.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with Boston University's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Lodge your application
Lodge your application through the official website (www.bu.edu). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. You can reach the institution by email at [email protected] or by phone at +1 (617) 353 2000. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Boston University
Quick reference for Boston University: founding, control type, and recognition status.
How old is Boston University?
The institution opened in 1869 (approximately 157 years ago).
Where can I find Boston University?
The institution is located in Boston, United States.
Is Boston University public or private?
It is a private higher-education institution.
How many students does Boston University have?
The institution has a student body of 18,248.
What is Boston University's ranking?
Boston University holds rank QS 2027 #94.
How many faculties does Boston University have?
The institution comprises 23 academic units.
Who recognises Boston University?
The institution holds recognition from New England Commission of Higher Education.
Where can I learn more about Boston University?
You can find Boston University online at www.bu.edu.
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Members of Association of American Universities (AAU)
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