SAT and ACT Scores For Boston University

Boston University is among the most selective universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), Boston University received roughly 80,000 applications and offered admission to only about 15,200 students—an acceptance rate near 19%. That means just around 19 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring Boston University's exceptionally high standards and intense competition year after year.

Boston University's Early Decision plan is binding. It admits a significant portion of each class (around half of enrolled students often come through ED). Applying Early Decision signals that Boston University is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. However, because ED is binding, students should only use it if Boston University is absolutely their first choice.

Testing policy has evolved. Boston University was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), Boston University will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Even before this change, nearly all successful applicants who reported scores were at the very top of the national scale, reflecting Boston University's rigorous academic profile.

SAT Scores

  Recommended Score: 1450

When families are curious about Boston University SAT or Boston University average SAT scores, they find that admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1360–1520. This elite band mirrors Boston University's high academic expectations and means admitted students typically score near the top of the national distribution.

For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for Boston University's admitted students falls around 660–740 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills Boston University expects across all majors.

On the Math portion, Boston University's middle-50% range is about 700–780. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that Boston University seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.

If you're wondering about a Boston University average SAT, aim for the mid-1400s. Boston University evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1360 don't automatically disqualify you. But in such a competitive pool, you'll need compensating strengths (like outstanding coursework, unique talents, or leadership impact) to remain viable.

Policy note: Boston University superscores the SAT. They consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math section scores from all test dates. In practice, this means a weak section can be improved with a retake, boosting how your Boston University SAT scores are evaluated.

ACT Scores

  Recommended Score: 33

Looking at Boston University's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 31–34. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, Boston University ACT results cluster in the low-to-mid 30s, reflecting the school's competitive applicant pool.

By section, admitted students tend to excel in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 32–35, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 32 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills Boston University expects.

ACT Math scores at Boston University are similarly high: the middle 50% falls around 28–34. While there's a bit more spread than English, competitive applicants still show very strong quantitative fluency. Many engineering or economics hopefuls, for example, hit scores in the low-to-mid 30s on ACT Math.

Boston University superscores the ACT just as it does the SAT, taking the highest section scores across multiple test dates. The optional writing section is not required, but applicants may submit it if it strengthens their profile. Using superscoring, you can focus on improving any weaker sections in additional attempts.

If you're estimating a Boston University average ACT, plan around 33. Given Boston University's low admit rate, even moving from a 31 to 33 can enhance your profile. Pair high test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.

Admission Numbers

Overall Rating: Very Competitive

Here are the applicant and admissions numbers per year for Boston University:

Here's the reality: Boston University's admit rate is only about 19%, with roughly 80,000 applications for about 15,200 spots (around 3,200 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the Boston University average SAT and Boston University average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above Boston University's 75th percentile (around a 1520 SAT or 34 ACT), you're in stronger territory.

That said, Boston University emphasizes holistic review. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. In a pool full of near-perfect transcripts, however, top-tier SAT/ACT scores help confirm to Boston University that you're ready for the academic rigor. In short, scores aren't everything, but they remain a key part of the competitive signal.

Strategy snapshot: If Boston University is your clear first choice, applying Early Decision could improve your odds by signaling commitment. Take advantage of superscoring by retaking tests to shore up any weak section. Also balance test prep with maintaining strong senior-year classes and crafting compelling essays. Meet Boston University's testing bar (target near the top of the Boston University SAT and ACT ranges) and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.