What are the differences between Boston University and Northeastern University?

Boston University (BU) and Northeastern University (NU) are two of the most prestigious private universities in the United States. They are located in the heart of Boston, a vibrant and diverse city that is home to many leading educational, cultural, and research institutions. While BU and NU share many similarities, there are also some key differences between the two schools.

Size

BU is a larger university than NU, with a total undergraduate enrollment of over 16,000 students. NU has a total undergraduate enrollment of just over 12,000 students. This difference in size is reflected in the campus atmosphere. BU's campus is more sprawling and offers a more diverse range of student activities. NU's campus is more compact and has a more intimate feel.

Academics

BU and NU offer a wide variety of academic programs, but there are some key differences in their academic strengths. BU is particularly strong in the areas of business, education, law, and medicine. NU is particularly strong in the areas of engineering, computer science, and the arts.

Admissions

BU and NU are both highly selective universities. For the 2021-2022 admissions cycle, BU had an acceptance rate of 23%. NU had an acceptance rate of 20%. The average GPA for admitted students was 3.7 at both universities. The average SAT score for admitted students was 1440 at BU and 1450 at NU. The average ACT score for admitted students was 32 at both universities.

Cost

The total cost of attendance for a year at BU is estimated to be $59,000. The total cost of attendance for a year at NU is estimated to be $61,000. These figures include tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses.

Financial Aid

BU and NU both offer a variety of financial aid options for students, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The amount of financial aid available to students varies based on their financial need and academic merit.

Career Services

BU and NU both have strong career services departments that offer a variety of resources for students, including resume writing, interview preparation, and job search assistance. The career services departments at BU and NU also work closely with employers to place students in internships and jobs after graduation.

Overall, BU and NU are two excellent universities that offer students a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. The best way to decide which university is right for you is to visit both campuses and meet with admissions representatives.