Boston University (BU) vs Washington University in St Louis (WashU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in location and campus environment between Boston University (BU) and Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)?

  BU is located in the heart of Boston, a vibrant city with a strong emphasis on urban living and access to numerous cultural and professional opportunities. Its campus is integrated into the city, offering a dynamic and bustling atmosphere. WashU, on the other hand, is situated in a more suburban setting in St. Louis, providing a traditional campus feel with a greater sense of enclosure and a focus on campus community. While St. Louis offers cultural attractions, it's generally considered a less fast-paced environment than Boston.

• How do BU and WashU compare in terms of academic reputation and program strengths?

  Both BU and WashU are highly regarded universities with strong academic reputations. WashU is often ranked slightly higher overall, particularly for its pre-med, engineering, and business programs. BU is known for its strong programs in communication, journalism, international relations, and performing arts. Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, but their specific areas of excellence differ slightly.

• What is the typical student body like at BU versus WashU?

  BU has a significantly larger undergraduate student body than WashU. This means BU offers a more diverse range of perspectives and experiences, but class sizes can sometimes be larger, especially in introductory courses. WashU has a smaller, more selective undergraduate population, fostering a close-knit community and often allowing for more personalized attention from professors. Both universities attract students from across the United States and around the world.

• How do the costs of attending BU and WashU compare, and what financial aid opportunities are available?

  Both BU and WashU are expensive universities, with similar tuition costs. However, the overall cost of attendance can vary depending on factors like housing and personal expenses. Both institutions offer need-based and merit-based financial aid packages. It's crucial to compare the specific financial aid offers you receive from each university to determine which is more affordable for your family. Researching external scholarships is also highly recommended.

• What are the main differences in campus culture and student life at BU and WashU?

  BU's campus culture is heavily influenced by its urban setting. Students often take advantage of Boston's cultural attractions, internships, and social scene. Student life at BU is characterized by a wide range of clubs, organizations, and activities, reflecting the diverse interests of its large student body. WashU's campus culture is more focused on campus life and community engagement. Students often participate in campus traditions, research opportunities, and service-learning projects. While both offer a vibrant student life, the focus and feel are distinct.

• How do BU and WashU approach research opportunities for undergraduate students?

  Both BU and WashU provide ample research opportunities for undergraduate students. WashU, with its strong emphasis on research, actively encourages undergraduate involvement in faculty research projects across various disciplines. BU also offers numerous research opportunities, particularly through its undergraduate research opportunities program (UROP) and its connections to Boston's research institutions and hospitals. Students at both universities should proactively seek out research opportunities that align with their interests.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at BU and WashU?

  Both BU and WashU offer comprehensive career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. BU's location in Boston provides access to a wide range of internship opportunities in various industries, including finance, technology, healthcare, and media. WashU's career services are also strong, with connections to companies and organizations both in St. Louis and nationally. The choice may depend on the specific industry you're interested in and the location where you'd like to work.

• How do BU and WashU compare in terms of their graduate school placement rates?

  Both BU and WashU have strong graduate school placement rates, reflecting the academic rigor and preparation students receive. WashU's strong reputation, particularly in pre-med and STEM fields, often leads to high placement rates in top graduate programs. BU's strong programs in communication, law, and international relations also contribute to excellent graduate school placement. Your choice should depend on your specific graduate school aspirations and the programs you're interested in.

• What are the housing options like at BU and WashU?

  BU offers a variety of housing options, ranging from traditional dormitories to apartment-style living. Because it's in a city, some students live off-campus after their freshman year. WashU provides guaranteed housing for all four years, primarily in residential colleges that foster a strong sense of community. The housing experience at WashU is generally more campus-centric, while BU's housing options reflect its urban environment.

• How do BU and WashU support international students?

  Both BU and WashU have dedicated offices and resources to support international students. They offer assistance with visa requirements, cultural adjustment, language support, and academic advising. Both universities have a diverse international student population, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for students from around the world. Check each university's international student services website for specific details on the support they provide.