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BU Waitlist Acceptance Rate: What You Need to Know

BU Waitlist Acceptance Rate: What You Need to Know

Discover the inside scoop on Boston University (BU)'s waitlist acceptance rate and learn how to increase your chances of getting off the waitlist.

Photo: Nathan Dumlao
Admissions
Updated 2026-01
13 min read

BU Waitlist Acceptance Rate: What You Need to Know

Discover the inside scoop on Boston University (BU)'s waitlist acceptance rate and learn how to increase your chances of getting off the waitlist.
MJ
Marcus Johnson

BU Class of 2024 | Questrom

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1

The Quick Answer

This guide covers bu waitlist acceptance rate: what you need to know based on data from Boston University (BU) and patterns observed among successful applicants. Guide to BU provides context that goes beyond official statistics.

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Understanding the BU Waitlist

Securing a spot on Boston University (BU)'s waitlist is no easy feat. As a highly selective institution, BU receives far more applications than they can accommodate each year. The waitlist is the university's way of holding onto promising candidates in case spots open up after the initial admission decisions are made.

If you find yourself on the BU waitlist, it's important to understand the process and your odds of getting accepted. This guide will break down the BU waitlist acceptance rate, share insider tips, and provide actionable steps you can take to improve your chances.

3

BU Waitlist Acceptance Rates

Boston University (BU)'s waitlist acceptance rate can vary significantly from year to year, but recent data provides some helpful context:

  • In 2021, BU accepted around 30% of students from the waitlist.
  • In 2020, the waitlist acceptance rate was closer to 25%.
  • Historically, the BU waitlist acceptance rate has ranged from 20-40% over the past decade.

It's important to note that these figures are just averages - your individual odds may be higher or lower depending on factors like your application strength, the specific program you applied to, and the university's enrollment needs that year.

While a 25-30% chance of getting off the waitlist may not seem high, it's still a meaningful opportunity that's worth pursuing if you're truly interested in attending BU.

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Why Students End Up on the BU Waitlist

There are a few common reasons why qualified applicants may find themselves on the Boston University (BU) waitlist:

  • The applicant pool was exceptionally strong that year, and BU had to make difficult decisions in the initial admission round.
  • The student's application, while impressive, didn't quite meet the bar for automatic admission compared to the rest of the pool.
  • The student applied to a highly competitive program at BU (like computer science or business) that had limited available spots.
  • The student's application was received towards the end of the cycle, leaving less room in the incoming class.

Regardless of the specific reason, being waitlisted at BU doesn't mean you're a weak applicant. It simply means the university sees potential in you but needs to carefully manage their enrollment. With the right approach, you can still earn a spot in the class.

5

Tips to Get Off the BU Waitlist

Pro Tip

If you find yourself on the Boston University (BU) waitlist, here are some strategic steps you can take to improve your chances of getting accepted:

  • Update Your Application: Submit any new achievements, awards, test scores, or other updates that strengthen your application since the initial review. This shows BU that you're continuing to grow and develop.
  • Send a Letter of Continued Interest: Compose a thoughtful letter reiterating your strong interest in BU and outlining why you're an ideal fit for the university. Avoid being overly emotional or begging for acceptance.
  • Request an Interview: See if BU offers the opportunity to interview with an alumni rep or admissions officer. This gives you a chance to make a personal connection and showcase your fit.
  • Visit Campus: If possible, plan a visit to the BU campus to demonstrate your commitment. Attend an info session, take a tour, and speak with current students.
  • Consider Deferring Enrollment: If accepted off the waitlist, you may be able to defer your enrollment for a semester or year. This gives you more time to prepare while holding your spot.

Stay persistent, proactive, and positive throughout the waitlist process. With a strategic approach, you can increase your chances of getting the BU acceptance you deserve.

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BU Waitlist Student Testimonials

Hear from real BU students who were accepted off the waitlist:

  • 'I was devastated when I first got waitlisted, but I refused to give up. I updated my application, wrote a passionate letter, and even visited campus. In the end, my persistence paid off and I'm so glad to be a Terrier!'
  • 'The waitlist process was stressful, but the admissions team was very helpful in guiding me through the next steps. Staying optimistic and continuing to showcase my interest in BU was key to eventually getting accepted.'
  • 'Being waitlisted at first made me question whether BU was the right fit. But after doing my research and learning more about the university, I became even more convinced that it was the perfect school for me. I'm thrilled to be here now!'
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What Surprises Applicants Most

Many applicants underestimate how much BU's admissions committee values demonstrated interest and authentic connection to the university. Generic essays that could apply to any school are immediately noticeable.

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Key Considerations

When evaluating BU Waitlist Acceptance Rate: What You Need to Know, BU students should weigh both the benefits and constraints. No option is perfect for everyone—the right choice depends on your specific priorities, circumstances, and what tradeoffs you're willing to accept.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boston University (BU)'s waitlist acceptance rate?
BU's waitlist acceptance rate can vary year-to-year, but has generally ranged from 20-40% over the past decade. In recent years, the acceptance rate has been around 25-30% on average.
How can I improve my chances of getting off the BU waitlist?
Some key tips include: updating your application with new achievements, sending a letter of continued interest, requesting an interview, visiting campus, and considering deferring enrollment if accepted off the waitlist.
Why do some students end up on the BU waitlist?
Common reasons include: the applicant pool was exceptionally strong that year, the student's application didn't quite meet the bar for automatic admission, they applied to a highly competitive program, or their application was received late in the cycle.
Is it worth staying on the BU waitlist?
Yes, staying on the BU waitlist is generally worth the effort. Even with acceptance rates around 25-30%, that still represents a meaningful opportunity to gain admission to this prestigious university.
Can I defer enrollment if I'm accepted off the BU waitlist?
In many cases, yes - you may be able to defer your enrollment at BU for a semester or full academic year if accepted off the waitlist. This can give you more time to prepare while holding your spot.
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