Academic Comparison between BU and American University

Boston University and American University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, private (not-for-profit). BU is located in Boston, MA and American University is located in Washington, DC.

Comparison at a Glance

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

  • Both schools are four-year, private (not-for-profit) schools.
  • BU has more expensive tuition & fees ($65,168) than American University ($56,543).
  • It is harder to admit to BU than American University.
  • BU has a higher submitted SAT score (1,470) than American University (1,380).
  • BU has higher submitted ACT score (33) than American University (31).
  • BU has more students with 36,714 students while American University has 13,885 students.
  • BU has more full-time faculties with 3,047 faculties while American University has 827 full-time faculties.
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Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Boston Universityvs.American University
Boston, MassachusettsLocationWashington, District of Columbia
Four-year, Private (not-for-profit)School Typefour-year, Private (not-for-profit)
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Research University (very high research activity)Carnegie ClassificationResearch University (high research activity)
$65,1682024 Tuition & Fees$56,543
49%% Receiving Financial Aid47%
$46,070Average Amount of Financial Aid$30,338
11.00 %Acceptance Rates47.00 %
36.00 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)22.00 %
1,470SAT Score1,380
33ACT Score31
88 %Graduation Rate79 %
-Transfer-out Rate-
94 %Retention Rate86 %
36,714Student Population13,885
3,047Number of Faculties827
11 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio11 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services, On-campus daycareOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, On-campus daycare
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