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College comparison
BU vs WashU
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 |  WashU St. Louis, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rateBoston University is more selective | 11% | 12% |
| SAT (25–75) | 1420–1530 | 1500–1570 |
| ACT (25–75) | — | — |
| Undergrad enrollment | 18,248 | 7,857 |
| Avg net price | $24,402 | $21,786 |
| Median earnings (10 yr)WashU reports higher median earnings | $83,238 | $86,182 |
| Graduation rate | 89% | 94% |
| Median debt | $23,250 | $17,500 |
| Economic mobility | 2.0% | 1.0% |
| Test policy | — | — |
| Type | Private (nonprofit) | Private (nonprofit) |
BU vs WashU: how they compare
Two highly selective, research-intensive universities with distinct personalities and value propositions.
By the numbers Based on AdmitQuant's verified data, the schools are close in selectivity (BU 11% acceptance, WashU 12%). WashU enrolls a higher-achieving cohort (SAT 25-75: 1500–1570 vs. BU’s 1420–1530) and boasts a higher graduation rate (94% vs. 89%). Post-graduate earnings are similar (10-year median: WashU $86k, BU $83k). Financially, WashU presents a slightly stronger value proposition, with a lower average net price ($22k vs. $24k) and a 4.0x earnings multiplier per dollar of net price, compared to BU’s 3.4x. However, BU shines in economic mobility (202% rate vs. 104%) and exhibits greater institutional stability, with a higher Department of Education financial health score (3.0/3 vs. 2.4/3) and higher admit-rate volatility (83% vs. 35%), suggesting more dynamic year-to-year admissions.
Where they overlap Both are academically rigorous, nationally recognized research universities. Neither is defined by a dominant sports or Greek-life culture, placing a primary focus on academics.
How they differ The core contrast is one of environment and vibe. BU is an integral part of Boston’s urban fabric—a “long block in the city”—fostering an independent, fast-paced student experience. WashU offers a traditional, self-contained suburban campus in St. Louis, frequently described as fostering a warmer, more cohesive and supportive undergraduate community. The cities themselves provide vastly different backdrops: Boston is a dense, historic coastal metropolis, while St. Louis is a more affordable, midwestern city.
Who each suits Boston University suits the self-motivated, city-savvy student who thrives on independence and wants immediate access to urban internships, culture, and a less curated campus experience. It’s a powerful engine for economic mobility. Washington University in St. Louis is ideal for students seeking a more traditional, collegial, and supportive campus atmosphere within a suburban setting, with slightly higher academic metrics and a strong focus on undergraduate outcomes.
Editorial overview — a qualitative summary of culture and fit, reviewed for accuracy. Not a ranking or a guarantee.
Quick answers
- Is Boston University or Washington University in St Louis harder to get into?
- Boston University is more selective: Boston University's acceptance rate is approximately 11% and Washington University in St Louis's is approximately 12% (estimates from public and primary sources).
- What SAT score do you need for Boston University vs Washington University in St Louis?
- The middle-50% SAT range is 1420–1530 at Boston University and 1500–1570 at Washington University in St Louis. 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.