Quick Facts
Prestigious private Jesuit research university
Location
Chestnut Hill, MA
Degrees
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Popular Majors
Finance, Economics, Biology, Psychology, Communication, Political Science, Nursing, Computer Science
Total Students	Undergrad Students
15,000	9,500
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$70,000+	$18,000
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Extremely Selective (~13% acceptance rate)	$30,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
6 miles
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

Boston College (BC), founded in 1863 by the Jesuits, is one of America's premier private universities, consistently ranked among the nation's top 40. Located in beautiful Chestnut Hill, BC serves approximately 15,000 students, including about 9,500 undergraduates, in a close-knit community grounded in intellectual excellence, ethical formation, and service to others. The university's Jesuit tradition of cura personalis—care for the whole person—infuses every aspect of campus life, encouraging students to develop academically, spiritually, and socially while preparing to make a difference in the world.

BC offers more than 60 undergraduate majors across its core colleges, alongside distinguished graduate and professional programs in law, business, nursing, education, social work, and theology.

The university's formative education integrates rigorous academics with opportunities for research, leadership, and service, fostering well-rounded graduates who lead with purpose.

Elite graduate schools include the Carroll School of Management, Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Connell School of Nursing, Law School, and others known for professional excellence and Jesuit values.

BC Eagles compete in NCAA Division I (ACC) across 29 varsity sports, with passionate support for hockey, football, basketball, and lacrosse, creating electric game-day atmospheres.

The picturesque Chestnut Hill campus features Gothic architecture, green quads, and modern facilities on 400+ acres, just 6 miles from downtown Boston with easy transit access for city exploration.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting Boston College>

Video Tour of Boston College

Academics

Boston College offers a distinctive Jesuit liberal arts education that combines intellectual rigor with ethical reflection and real-world preparation. Undergraduates benefit from the renowned Core Curriculum, requiring courses in theology, philosophy, literature, history, natural sciences, social sciences, arts, and writing to develop critical thinking, moral reasoning, and cultural awareness. Popular majors include Finance, Economics, Biology, Psychology, Communication, Political Science, Nursing, and Computer Science, with small class sizes (average 20 students) ensuring close interaction with distinguished faculty who are both teachers and active scholars. Students engage in research, internships, study abroad in 30+ countries, and service-learning projects, all supported by BC's commitment to forming "men and women for others." The university's resources, including advanced labs and libraries, empower students to explore passions deeply while building a strong foundation for lifelong learning and leadership.

Admission

Admission to Boston College is extremely competitive, with acceptance rates around 13% in recent cycles, reflecting the university's high standards and appeal to talented, service-oriented students. Applications are submitted through the Common Application or QuestBridge, with Early Decision I/II (binding) and Regular Decision options available. BC remains test-optional, focusing on holistic review of academic achievement, rigor of coursework, essays, recommendations, extracurricular leadership, and alignment with Jesuit values of intellectual curiosity, compassion, and commitment to justice. Admitted students typically have strong GPAs (average ~3.9), challenging course loads, and meaningful contributions to their communities. Boston College is need-blind for domestic applicants and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need without loans for many families, making it accessible to qualified students from all backgrounds.

Career Outcomes

Boston College graduates enjoy outstanding career success, entering top employers in finance, consulting, technology, healthcare, education, law, and public service with strong starting salaries and rapid advancement. The university's Career Center provides personalized coaching, internship placement, recruiting events, and a powerful alumni network of over 200,000 that opens doors worldwide. Many students secure prestigious positions at firms like Goldman Sachs, Google, Deloitte, and Teach for America, while others pursue graduate programs at elite institutions. BC's emphasis on ethical leadership, combined with practical experience through internships, research, and service, produces graduates who not only excel professionally but also make positive impacts in their fields and communities. High employment rates (over 95% within six months) and robust support ensure long-term career fulfillment.

Campus

Boston College's breathtaking Chestnut Hill campus spans over 400 acres of rolling hills, featuring iconic Gothic architecture, tree-lined quads, and modern facilities that create an inspiring collegiate atmosphere. Highlights include the majestic Gasson Hall with its tower, the state-of-the-art Schiller Institute for Integrated Science and Society, extensive athletic complexes, and the McMullen Museum of Art. The campus is designed for community, with interconnected buildings, green spaces for recreation, and panoramic views of the Boston skyline and reservoir. Sustainability efforts include LEED-certified buildings and green initiatives. Located just 6 miles from downtown, the campus offers a peaceful retreat with easy access via the MBTA Green Line, shuttles, or the BC bus system, allowing students to enjoy both suburban tranquility and urban excitement.

Student Life

Boston College cultivates a vibrant, supportive community rooted in Jesuit values of companionship, service, and personal growth. Nearly all undergraduates live on campus in one of 33 residence halls organized by year and theme, fostering close friendships and traditions like the "Mod Olympics" and late-night study sessions. With over 300 student organizations—from cultural clubs and performing arts to academic societies, service groups, and intramural sports—students find countless ways to get involved and lead. Spiritual life thrives through retreats, Masses, and interfaith programs at St. Ignatius Church. Athletics unite the community with passionate support for Eagles teams, especially at hockey games in Conte Forum and football at Alumni Stadium. Wellness resources, counseling, and a strong sense of belonging help students balance demanding academics with rich social experiences. The campus buzzes with events like Spring Concert, Christmas Tree Lighting, and service immersion trips, while proximity to Boston provides endless cultural, dining, and professional opportunities.

Graduate Schools

Visiting Boston College