CAMPUS · BOSTON, MA · PRIVATE

Boston University

10.8%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Boston University: By the Numbers

22.3%

International Undergrads

5,107

International Undergrad Count

7,733

International Graduate Students

28.2%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Boston University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$18,110/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$72,440

Good news for international applicants: Boston University is a private university — there's no in-state vs out-of-state tuition difference.

How to Apply to Boston University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1460+, ACT: 33+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Boston University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Boston University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Boston University's undergraduate student body.

White

31.8%

Black/African American

4.6%

Hispanic/Latino

10.5%

Asian

18.0%

International

22.3%

Career Outcomes for Boston University International Graduates

International students at Boston University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$83,238

Median Earnings (10yr)

$65,655

Median Salary (6yr)

$23,250

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Boston University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

31.8%

Black/African American

4.6%

Hispanic/Latino

10.5%

Asian

18.0%

International

22.3%

Boston University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Boston University?

22.3% of Boston University undergraduates are international students. That's about 5,107 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Boston University?

International students at Boston University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $86,285/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Boston University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Boston University's overall acceptance rate is 10.8%. International applicants typically face even more competitive admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Boston University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Boston University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Boston University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Boston University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Boston University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.