Boston University Undergraduate Admissions Guide (for International Applicants)

Boston University (BU), located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, is a highly respected private research university known for its academic excellence and global student community. This comprehensive guide outlines the undergraduate admissions requirements for first-year applicants, with a particular focus on international students.

1. Who Should Apply as a First-Year Applicant?

You should apply as a first-year applicant if you:

• Are currently in your final year of high school

• Have completed high school but have not enrolled in any college

• Hold a GED or high school equivalency diploma

• Are a high school student enrolled in a dual enrollment program

2. Required Application Materials (All Applicants)

• Common Application or QuestBridge Application

• Official high school transcript

• Senior year grades (first term or mid-year grades)

• School Counselor Recommendation and School Report

• One Teacher Evaluation

• Standardized test scores (optional; SAT/ACT)

• Optional: 60–90 second Glimpse video submission

BU uses a holistic review process, considering each applicant’s academic performance, extracurricular involvement, background, and context.

3. Additional Requirements for International Applicants

• English proficiency test results (choose one):

  • TOEFL iBT: 90–100 overall, with at least 20 in each section

  • IELTS: Overall score of 7.0 or higher

  • Duolingo English Test (DET): 125–135 total score

• Passport biographical page (PDF format)

• Financial documentation (proof of ability to fund studies)

• Optional: InitialView or Vericant interview

Note: English proficiency results are required unless English is your native language or primary language of instruction.

4. Application Options: Early Decision vs. Regular Decision

• Early Decision (ED): Binding; for students who are certain BU is their top choice

• Early Decision 2 (ED2): Also binding; offers more time for preparation

• Regular Decision (RD): Non-binding; general deadline

Early Decision applicants must submit the ED Agreement signed by the student, a parent/guardian, and a school counselor. If not admitted through ED, applicants may be deferred to Regular Decision.

5. Selecting a School or Program

Applicants must apply to a specific school or college within BU. Those unsure of their major may choose:

• College of Arts & Sciences (Undeclared)

• College of General Studies

Some programs are only available for certain entry terms. Always review BU's list of majors before applying.

6. Scholarships for International Students

▶ Merit-Based Scholarships

• Trustee Scholarship: Full tuition; highly competitive

• Presidential Scholarship: $25,000 annually; no separate application needed

• Alumni & Friends Scholarships: $10,000 to full cost of attendance; regional or academic-interest based

Note: BU does not offer need-based financial aid to international students.

7. Test-Optional Policy

• BU is test-optional through Spring 2029.

• Applicants may choose to submit SAT/ACT scores if they believe these scores strengthen their application.

• BU superscores both SAT and ACT: highest section scores across multiple test dates are considered.

If submitting self-reported test scores, official scores must be provided before enrollment.

8. Key Reminders

• Use the MyBU Applicant Portal to upload documents and track application status

• TOEFL code: 3087 | ACT code: 1794 | SAT code: 3087

• CELOP (BU's English language center) is available for students needing to improve English skills prior to starting degree coursework

Boston University offers international students a world-class education, access to a vibrant city, and opportunities for academic and personal growth. With careful preparation and a strong application strategy, admission to BU is within reach.