Boston University Presidential Scholarship 2027 (Half Tuition)

Boston University (BU), one of the leading private research universities in the United States, offers the Presidential Scholarship to outstanding first-year students. The merit award covers half of undergraduate tuition every year, and international students are eligible.

There is no separate scholarship application. Every first-year applicant who completes their BU application by 1 December is considered automatically.

What the scholarship covers

• Half of BU tuition each year, about US$36,500 a year based on 2026–27 tuition of US$73,024
• Renewable for up to four years of undergraduate study, as long as you stay in good academic standing

The scholarship does not cover housing, food, fees or personal costs, which come to more than US$20,000 a year. International students are not eligible for BU's need-based financial aid, so plan how you will cover the remaining costs.

Who can apply

• Students applying for first-year (freshman) undergraduate admission for fall 2027
• Open to all nationalities: US citizens, permanent residents and international students
• Excellent academic results
• Strong leadership and involvement in your school or community

There is no published minimum GPA or test score. The scholarship is highly competitive and goes to a small number of top applicants.

How to apply

1. Apply to Boston University for first-year admission through the Common Application.
2. Submit everything by 1 December 2026: your application, school transcripts, recommendation letters, school report and any other documents BU asks for.
3. International applicants: include proof of English proficiency (such as TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo) if English is not your first language, and check BU's current testing policy for the SAT or ACT.
4. Wait for your decision. Scholarship recipients are told alongside their admission results in spring.

You can apply through Regular Decision or Early Decision, but your complete application must be in by 1 December to be considered for the Presidential Scholarship.

Key dates

Tips for a strong application

• Show leadership with impact. Describe what you started, led or changed, not just the positions you held.
• Make your essays personal. Show who you are and why BU fits your goals.
• Ask for strong recommendations from teachers who know your work well.
• Submit early. Don't let a missing transcript or recommendation make you miss the 1 December deadline.
• Plan your full budget. Look for other external scholarships to cover housing and living costs.
• Applying for the scholarship is free. You only pay BU's application fee, or request a fee waiver if you qualify.