Boston University (BU), located in Boston, Massachusetts, is one of the most prestigious private research universities in the United States. Known for its academic excellence, diverse programs, and strong research opportunities, BU attracts students from over 130 countries. The university offers over 300 programs across various disciplines, making it a top choice for undergraduate, graduate, and international students.
However, attending Boston University can be expensive, with tuition, housing, and other expenses exceeding $85,000 per year. To ensure that students from all financial backgrounds can pursue a world-class education, BU offers a variety of scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs.
For students seeking fully funded education in the USA, Boston University provides merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and special funding opportunities. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Boston University scholarships, covering eligibility criteria, application processes, and funding opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and international students.
Understanding Boston University’s Financial Aid and Scholarship System
Boston University provides a combination of need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships to help students fund their education. The university awards over $400 million in financial aid annually, ensuring that talented students can pursue their academic goals without financial barriers.
Key Features of BU’s Financial Aid System
- Merit-Based Scholarships: BU offers several full-tuition and partial scholarships for outstanding students.
- Need-Based Financial Aid: BU meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for eligible students.
- Financial Aid for International Students: BU provides both need-based aid and merit scholarships for international students.
- Research Grants and Fellowships: BU offers funding for students conducting research and special projects.
- Work-Study Opportunities: Students can earn money through on-campus employment programs.
These policies make Boston University one of the best choices for students looking for fully funded education in the USA.
Boston University Scholarships for Undergraduate Students
BU’s undergraduate financial aid program ensures that students from diverse economic backgrounds can afford a world-class education.
1. Boston University Presidential Scholarship
The Presidential Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic and leadership potential.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to U.S. and international students.
- Must have a strong academic record (top 10% of high school class).
- Demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement.
- No separate application required; awarded based on admission application.
Scholarship Coverage
- $25,000 per year (renewable for four years).
2. Boston University Trustee Scholarship (Full-Tuition Scholarship)
The Trustee Scholarship is BU’s most prestigious merit-based scholarship, awarded to the top 20 students in the incoming freshman class.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to U.S. and international students.
- Exceptional academic achievement (SAT/ACT scores in the top 1% recommended).
- Strong leadership, extracurricular involvement, and intellectual curiosity.
- Requires an additional essay in the scholarship application.
Scholarship Coverage
- Full Tuition (Renewable for Four Years).
3. Boston University National Merit Scholarships
BU offers National Merit Finalists an annual scholarship award.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a National Merit Finalist.
- Must have selected Boston University as first-choice institution.
- Based on academic merit and standardized test scores.
Scholarship Coverage
- $20,000 per year (renewable for four years).
4. BU College of Engineering FIRST Robotics Scholarship
BU awards scholarships to students with experience in FIRST Robotics competitions.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be admitted to Boston University’s College of Engineering.
- Must have participated in FIRST Robotics competitions.
- Strong academic and leadership background.
Scholarship Coverage
- $25,000 per year.
5. BU Community Service Award (For Local Students)
This scholarship is designed for Boston Public Schools graduates who have contributed to their community.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a graduate of Boston Public Schools.
- Demonstrate strong community involvement and leadership.
- Open to students from low-income backgrounds.
Scholarship Coverage
- Full or Partial Tuition.
Boston University Scholarships for International Students
Boston University is committed to helping international students afford a U.S. education.
1. Boston University Presidential Scholarship for International Students
International students are eligible for the $25,000 per year Presidential Scholarship.
2. Trustee Scholarship for International Students
BU awards full-tuition Trustee Scholarships to international students who demonstrate outstanding academic ability.
3. BU International Student Financial Aid
BU provides need-based financial aid for international students.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an admitted international student.
- Must demonstrate significant financial need.
Scholarship Coverage
- Partial Tuition Grants (amount varies by student need).
For international students looking for scholarship opportunities in the USA, BU offers competitive funding packages.
Boston University Scholarships for Graduate Students
BU offers fully funded scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships for graduate students in its various professional schools and research programs.
1. Boston University Graduate Fellowships
BU provides fellowships that cover full tuition and living stipends.
Types of BU Graduate Fellowships
- Dean’s Fellowship – For outstanding graduate students in all disciplines.
- Research Fellowships – Provides funding for STEM and social science students.
- Diversity Fellowships – Available for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
2. BU Research and Teaching Assistantships
Graduate students at BU often work as research assistants (RAs) or teaching assistants (TAs).
Benefits of Assistantships
- Full Tuition Coverage.
- Monthly Stipend (average $40,000 per year).
- Health Insurance Benefits.
3. Boston University Law School Scholarships
BU Law School offers need-based and merit-based scholarships.
Scholarship Options
- BU Law Merit Scholarships – Full or partial tuition scholarships.
- Public Interest Law Fellowships – For students working in legal aid, non-profits, or government service.
4. BU School of Medicine (Full-Tuition Scholarships)
BU provides full-tuition scholarships for medical students.
Funding Options
- Need-Based Medical School Grants.
- MD-PhD Full Funding.
- Boston Medical Research Fellowships.
How to Apply for Boston University Scholarships
Applying for BU scholarships requires submitting financial aid documents and ensuring all deadlines are met.
Step 1: Apply for Admission to BU
Students must first be admitted to BU through:
- Common Application or Coalition Application (for undergraduates).
- BU Graduate School Application (for graduate students).
Step 2: Submit Financial Aid Forms
U.S. students must submit:
- CSS Profile (via College Board).
- FAFSA (for federal aid eligibility).
- Tax Returns and other financial statements.
International students must provide:
- CSS Profile (if applicable).
- International student financial aid application.
- Income statements or government documents.
Step 3: Review BU’s Financial Aid Award
Once admitted, students receive a customized financial aid package, detailing tuition coverage and additional funding.
Step 4: Accept the Scholarship Offer
Students must accept their financial aid package and enroll at BU to secure funding.
Conclusion
Boston University is one of the best universities for fully funded education in the USA. With prestigious merit scholarships, need-based financial aid, and fully funded graduate fellowships, BU ensures that financial constraints do not prevent talented students from achieving their academic and career goals.