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New York University and Boston University are both private nonprofit institutions — New York University in New York, NY and Boston University in Boston, MA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
New York, NY · Private
Acceptance rate: 9.2%
Undergrad enrollment: 28,663
Tuition: $62,796/year
Student-faculty ratio: 8.0:1
Graduation rate: 87.6%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Social sciences, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in New York, NY with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Social sciences.
Boston, MA · Private
Acceptance rate: 11.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 18,248
Tuition: $68,102/year
Student-faculty ratio: 10.0:1
Graduation rate: 88.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Boston, MA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Social sciences.
| Factor | New York University | Boston University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 9.2% | 11.1% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1480–1560 |
| 1420–1530 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 34–35 | 32–34 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 28,663 | 18,248 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,796/year | $68,102/year |
| Average net price after aid | $37,050 | $24,402 |
| Graduation rate | 87.6% | 88.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $82,509 | $83,238 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | New York, NY | Boston, MA |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Social sciences, Business and marketing | Business and marketing, Social sciences, Communication |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (9.2% vs 11.1%). Boston University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($24,402 vs $37,050). Boston University reports the higher graduation rate (88.7% vs 87.6%). New York University is the larger undergraduate campus (28,663 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between New York University and Boston University
New York University has an acceptance rate of 9.2%; Boston University is around 11.1%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
New York University tuition is $62,796/year. Boston University is $68,102/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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