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College comparison
BU vs Davidson
A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.
| Metric |  BU Boston, MA |  Davidson Davidson, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateBoston University is more selective | 11% | 13% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1420–1530 | 1400–1530 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 18,248 | 1,867 |
| Avg net price | $24,402 | $17,379 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)BU reports higher median earnings | $83,238 | $81,400 |
| Graduation rate | 89% | 91% |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $18,688 |
| Economic mobility | 2.0% | 0.4% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
BU vs Davidson: how they compare
For an affluent, data-driven family, the choice between Boston University and Davidson College is a contrast between a large, dynamic urban research institution and a small, intense suburban liberal arts college.
By the numbers Quantitatively, the schools are close in selectivity (BU 11% vs. Davidson 13%) and student aptitude (SAT 25–75: BU 1420–1530, Davidson 1400–1530). Outcomes are similar, with BU's 10-year median earnings at $83k and Davidson's at $81k, and graduation rates at 89% and 91%, respectively. The key financial differences are in value and mobility: Davidson's lower average net price ($17k vs. $24k) yields a higher value multiplier (4.7× vs. 3.4× earnings per dollar). However, BU's economic-mobility rate is dramatically higher (202% vs. 41%), indicating it propels far more low-income students into higher earnings brackets. BU shows higher admit-rate volatility (83% vs. 41%) and a slightly stronger DOE financial-health score (3.0 vs. 2.7).
Where they overlap Both are highly selective, rigorous institutions with strong outcomes, producing graduates with similar early-career earning power. Each possesses a dedicated study culture where academics are a clear priority.
How they differ The environments are opposites. BU is a large, integrated urban campus in Boston, offering vast academic choice and a non-traditional campus feel. Davidson is a small, tight-knit suburban community of about 1,800, known for its self-contained campus and Division I athletics. The cultural tone differs: BU thrives on the energy and opportunity of a major city, while Davidson fosters a more communal atmosphere focused on deep intellectual engagement.
Who each suits Boston University suits a student seeking academic variety, internship access, and an independent, fast-paced city life. It’s for those who prioritize professional connectivity and a dynamic college experience. Davidson College is ideal for a student who thrives in a close, residential community with intense, collaborative academics. It fits a learner who values deep relationships with professors and peers and a classic campus environment.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Boston University or Davidson College harder to get into?
- Boston University is more selective: Boston University's acceptance rate is approximately 11% and Davidson College's is approximately 13% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Boston University vs Davidson College?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1420–1530 at Boston University and 1400–1530 at Davidson College. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.
These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.