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The Complete Guide to Boston University (BU) Costs in 2023

The Complete Guide to Boston University (BU) Costs in 2023

Explore the total cost of attending Boston University (BU), including tuition, fees, housing, and more. Get insider tips to minimize expenses and maximize your BU experience.

Photo: Changbok Ko
Financial
Updated 2026-01
12 min read

The Complete Guide to Boston University (BU) Costs in 2023

Explore the total cost of attending Boston University (BU), including tuition, fees, housing, and more. Get insider tips to minimize expenses and maximize your BU experience.
SC
Sarah Chen

BU Class of 2025 | CAS

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1

The Quick Answer

This guide breaks down the complete guide to boston university (bu) costs in 2023 at Boston University (BU) using official data and observed patterns from families who have navigated the process. Guide to BU aims to make financial planning more transparent.

2

Understanding the Total Cost of Attending Boston University (BU)

As a current Boston University (BU) student, I know firsthand how important it is to have a clear understanding of the total cost of attending BU. Tuition, fees, housing, and other expenses can quickly add up, so it's crucial to plan ahead and explore ways to manage the financial burden. In this guide, I'll break down all the key costs associated with being a BU student and share insider tips to help you maximize your resources and minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.

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Tuition and Fees at Boston University (BU)

Tuition is the primary driver of the overall cost of attending BU. For the 2022-2023 academic year, the full-time undergraduate tuition is $59,720. This covers instruction and the use of campus facilities. In addition to tuition, BU students also pay a variety of mandatory fees that can add up quickly:

  • Undergraduate Student Fee: $1,252 per year
  • Health & Wellness Fee: $990 per year
  • Student Activity Fee: $280 per year
  • Student Services Fee: $268 per year

So, the total tuition and fees for a full-time undergraduate student at BU in 2022-2023 is $62,510. It's important to note that these costs are subject to annual increases, so be sure to check the latest figures on the BU Student Accounting Services website.

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Housing and Dining Costs at Boston University (BU)

Housing and dining are two other major expenses for BU students. The cost of on-campus housing can vary depending on the dorm and room type, but the average cost for the 2022-2023 academic year is $12,950.

For dining, BU offers several meal plan options that range from $5,430 to $7,300 per year. The most popular plan is the 19-Meal Plan, which costs $6,830 annually.

So, the total estimated cost for housing and dining at BU is around $19,780 to $20,250 per year. Again, these figures are subject to change, so be sure to check the latest housing and dining rates on the BU Housing & Dining website.

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Other Expenses to Consider

In addition to tuition, fees, housing, and dining, there are several other expenses that BU students need to factor into their budgets:

  • Books and Supplies: Estimated at $1,000 to $1,500 per year
  • Personal Expenses: Estimated at $2,000 to $3,000 per year (includes things like laundry, transportation, entertainment, etc.)
  • Health Insurance: Required for all BU students, with an annual cost of $3,335

When you add up all these costs, the total estimated cost of attendance for a full-time undergraduate student at Boston University (BU) for the 2022-2023 academic year is approximately $89,125 to $91,095.

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Ways to Minimize the Cost of Attending BU

While the cost of attending BU may seem daunting, there are several strategies you can use to help reduce your expenses:

  • Apply for Financial Aid: BU offers a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Be sure to complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile forms to maximize your eligibility.
  • Consider On-Campus Housing: Living in a BU dorm can be more cost-effective than renting off-campus apartments, especially in the Boston area.
  • Take Advantage of Meal Plans: BU's dining plans are designed to provide a good value, so make the most of your meal plan to save on food costs.
  • Use Campus Resources: BU has a wealth of free or low-cost resources available, such as the library, health services, and recreational facilities.
  • Look for Discounts: As a BU student, you may be eligible for discounts on things like software, transportation, and entertainment.
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What Surprises Families Most About BU Costs

The sticker price at BU often doesn't reflect what families actually pay. Merit scholarships, need-based aid, and negotiation can significantly reduce the actual cost—but you have to know how to navigate the process.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the total cost of attending Boston University (BU)?
The total estimated cost of attendance for a full-time undergraduate student at Boston University (BU) for the 2022-2023 academic year is approximately $89,125 to $91,095. This includes tuition and fees, housing and dining, and other expenses like books, supplies, and health insurance.
How much is tuition at Boston University (BU)?
The full-time undergraduate tuition at Boston University (BU) for the 2022-2023 academic year is $59,720. In addition to tuition, BU students also pay various mandatory fees that can add up to around $2,790 per year.
What are the housing and dining costs at Boston University (BU)?
The average cost of on-campus housing at Boston University (BU) for the 2022-2023 academic year is $12,950. The cost of the most popular meal plan, the 19-Meal Plan, is $6,830 per year. So the total estimated cost for housing and dining at BU is around $19,780 to $20,250 per year.
How can I save money as a Boston University (BU) student?
Here are some tips to help minimize the cost of attending Boston University (BU): - Apply for financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans. - Consider living in on-campus housing, which can be more cost-effective than renting off-campus. - Take full advantage of your BU meal plan to save on food costs. - Utilize the university's free or low-cost resources, such as the library, health services, and recreational facilities. - Look for discounts available to BU students on things like software, transportation, and entertainment.
Is Boston University (BU) expensive?
Yes, Boston University (BU) is generally considered an expensive university. With a total estimated cost of attendance ranging from $89,125 to $91,095 per year, BU is one of the pricier private universities in the United States. However, the university does offer a variety of financial aid options to help make it more accessible for students from diverse economic backgrounds.
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