Quick Summary
Private, jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill, United States — Boston College, est. 1863. Ranked #641 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 15231 students including 11% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Theology, Philosophy, Nursing, it maintains an acceptance rate of 15%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Combines a rigorous liberal arts education with a commitment to social justice and global leadership.
Subject Strengths
TheologyPhilosophyNursingBusiness and ManagementEducationSocial Work
Founded1863
TypePrivate, Jesuit Research University
Total Students15231
Intl Students11%
Faculty Ratio11
CampusSuburban
Campus Size340 acres
Affiliated HospitalsSt. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital
AccreditationNew England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#641
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#251
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#401
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Professional Certificates
Programs
Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Education, English, History, Philosophy, Physics, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, Theology
PhD Programs
Master of Healthcare Administration, Master of Social Work, Continuing Education Certificates
Online Programs
Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society, Boisi Center for Religion and American Public Life, Center for Retirement Research
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate15%
IELTS7.5
TOEFL100
Min GPA3.8
GREOptional for most programs
GMATOptional for most MBA tracks
SATOptional (Mid-range 1450-1530)
ACTOptional (Mid-range 33-35)
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 2
SPRINGApplication Deadline · November 1
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on the Jesuit values of service and 'cura personalis'. Strong supplemental essays reflecting commitment to community are vital.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$70,540/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$21,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$48,600/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$80
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$92,040/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableGabelli Presidential Scholars Program, Athletic Scholarships, National Merit Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$52,000
Financial AidNeed-blind admission for US citizens; meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Work-StudyFederal Work-Study and non-FWS campus employment available.
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Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, Professional Certificates programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Finance | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Economics | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Biology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Political Science | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Nursing | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$78,000
Average Salary After Graduation
96%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh placement with Big Four firms, Boston tech hubs, and major hospitals.
Industry Connections
Strong ties to FinanceHealthcareand Education sectors in Boston and NYC.
Notable Alumni
John Kerry, Amy Poehler, Chris O'Donnell, Marty Walsh, Phil Schiller
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Alumni Stadium, Conte Forum, Margot Connell Recreation Center
Student Clubs
Over 300 student organizations including UGBC, Appa, and various cultural clubs.
Library Resources
O'Neill Library, Bapst Library, Burns Library (Special Collections)
Exchange Programs
Over 60 programs in 30+ countries
Summer Programs
BC Summer Experience for High School Students, Summer Session