Skip to main content
BU
Boston University (BU) Tuition Costs: Everything You Need to Know

Boston University (BU) Tuition Costs: Everything You Need to Know

Explore the full breakdown of Boston University (BU) tuition, fees, and living costs. Get insider tips on maximizing financial aid and scholarships to make BU affordable.

Photo: Changbok Ko
Financial
Updated 2026-01
7 min read

Boston University (BU) Tuition Costs: Everything You Need to Know

Explore the full breakdown of Boston University (BU) tuition, fees, and living costs. Get insider tips on maximizing financial aid and scholarships to make BU affordable.
DP
David Park

BU Class of 2025 | ENG

Share:
1

The Quick Answer

This guide breaks down boston university (bu) tuition costs: everything you need to know at Boston University (BU) using official data and observed patterns from families who have navigated the process. Guide to BU aims to make financial planning more transparent.

2

Understanding the Boston University (BU) Tuition Cost Breakdown

As a prospective or current Boston University (BU) student, understanding the full cost of attendance is crucial for budgeting and planning your finances. BU's tuition, fees, and living expenses can add up quickly, but there are also plenty of ways to maximize financial aid and scholarships to make your dream of a BU education a reality. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the details of Boston University's costs and share insider tips to help you navigate the financial landscape.

The Basics: Boston University Tuition and Fees

For the 2022-2023 academic year, the standard Boston University tuition is $58,702 for full-time undergraduate students. On top of that, there are a number of mandatory fees that add to the total cost:

  • Student Services Fee: $1,522
  • Student Activity Fee: $440
  • Student Health Fee: $526

So the total cost of tuition and mandatory fees at Boston University comes out to $61,190 per year. It's important to note that this does not include housing, meals, books, and other living expenses, which can add thousands more to your annual budget.

3

Housing and Dining Costs at Boston University (BU)

In addition to tuition and fees, Boston University (BU) students need to factor in the cost of on-campus housing and dining. The university offers a variety of dorm and apartment-style housing options, with prices ranging from around $11,000 to $16,000 per year.

On-Campus Housing Costs:

  • Warren Towers (Freshman Dorms): $13,614 per year
  • Myles Standish Hall: $15,706 per year
  • West Campus (Stuvi 1 & 2): $15,706 per year

The standard BU Dining Plan costs $6,368 per year, providing 225 meals per semester plus $300 in Dining Dollars that can be used at on-campus restaurants and cafes.

So the total estimated cost for tuition, fees, housing, and dining at Boston University comes out to around $79,000 per year. But there are ways to reduce these costs through financial aid, scholarships, and cost-saving strategies.

4

Maximizing Financial Aid and Scholarships at BU

The sticker price of Boston University (BU) may seem daunting, but the good news is that the majority of BU students receive some form of financial assistance. In fact, over 70% of undergraduates receive need-based aid, with the average award totaling over $40,000 per year.

To qualify for financial aid at BU, you'll need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as early as possible. The university will then put together a personalized financial aid package, which may include a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans.

In addition to need-based aid, Boston University also offers a wide range of merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students. These include the Presidential Scholarship (full tuition) and the Trustee Scholarship (up to $30,000 per year). To be considered, you'll need to submit your application and supplemental materials by the early action deadline.

Keeping your grades up, getting involved on campus, and highlighting your unique talents and experiences can also increase your chances of securing additional scholarships, both from BU and outside organizations. The key is to explore all of your financial aid options and not be afraid to ask for help navigating the process.

5

Other Expenses to Budget for as a BU Student

While tuition, fees, housing, and dining make up the bulk of the cost of attending Boston University (BU), there are a few other expenses that students should factor into their budgets:

Books and Supplies: Textbooks, school supplies, and other academic materials can easily add up to $1,000 or more per year, depending on your course load and major.

Transportation: If you plan to have a car on campus, you'll need to budget for parking permits, gas, and insurance, which can cost $1,500 or more annually. Public transportation via the MBTA can be a more cost-effective option.

Personal Expenses: Things like laundry, toiletries, eating out, entertainment, and other incidentals can vary widely from student to student, but you should plan for at least $2,000 per year in personal spending.

Health Insurance: All BU students are required to have health insurance, either through the university's plan (around $3,000 per year) or a private provider.

By accounting for these additional costs upfront, you can ensure that you have a realistic understanding of the full financial commitment of attending Boston University.

6

Affording Your BU Education: Strategies for Success

Navigating the financial landscape of Boston University (BU) can seem daunting, but with the right information and planning, a BU education is more attainable than you might think. By taking advantage of financial aid, scholarships, and cost-saving measures, you can make your dream of attending this top-tier university a reality.

The key is to start the process early, be proactive in exploring all of your options, and don't hesitate to reach out to the BU financial aid office for guidance. With careful budgeting and a strategic approach, you can minimize your out-of-pocket costs and focus on making the most of your time at Boston University.

Remember, a BU degree is an investment in your future, and the university is committed to making it as accessible as possible. By understanding the full cost breakdown and maximizing your financial resources, you'll be well on your way to an unforgettable experience as a Boston University Terrier.

7

What Surprises Families Most About BU Costs

The sticker price at BU often doesn't reflect what families actually pay. Merit scholarships, need-based aid, and negotiation can significantly reduce the actual cost—but you have to know how to navigate the process.

8

Key Considerations

When evaluating Boston University (BU) Tuition Costs: Everything 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 the total cost of attending Boston University (BU)?
The total cost of attending Boston University (BU) for the 2022-2023 academic year is approximately $79,000. This includes tuition and mandatory fees ($61,190), on-campus housing ($13,614 to $15,706), and the standard dining plan ($6,368).
Does Boston University (BU) offer financial aid and scholarships?
Yes, over 70% of Boston University (BU) undergraduates receive need-based financial aid, with the average award totaling over $40,000 per year. BU also offers a variety of merit-based scholarships, including the full-tuition Presidential Scholarship and up to $30,000 per year Trustee Scholarship.
How can I reduce the cost of attending Boston University (BU)?
There are several ways to reduce the cost of attending Boston University (BU), including maximizing financial aid and scholarships, living in less expensive on-campus housing, choosing a more affordable dining plan, and budgeting carefully for additional expenses like textbooks and transportation.
Is Boston University (BU) more expensive than other top universities?
Boston University (BU)'s tuition and fees are on par with other highly-ranked private universities like NYU, USC, and Georgetown. However, BU's generous financial aid and scholarship opportunities can make it more affordable for many students compared to these peer institutions.
When should I apply for financial aid at Boston University (BU)?
It's recommended to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as early as possible, ideally by the priority deadline of February 1st. This will maximize your chances of receiving the best financial aid package from Boston University (BU).
Related

Related Guides

You Might Also Like

Get More BU Tips

Join 5,000+ students getting weekly insider tips and campus updates.

No spam, ever. Unsubscribe anytime.

Found this helpful? Share it!

Share:

Have insights to share?

Help other BU students by sharing your experience. Your review could help thousands!