Hi everyone, I'm currently a high school junior and Boston University is on my college list. I was wondering if anyone knows how generous BU is with financial aid? Are there a lot of merit-based scholarships available? Any information would be appreciated, thanks!
Boston University is known for offering a mix of need-based and merit-based financial aid.
For need-based aid, BU meets the full demonstrated need of all admitted students who apply for financial aid by the priority deadline. The university calculates your family's expected contribution and covers your financial need with a combination of grants, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and possibly loans. To apply for need-based aid, you'll need to submit the FAFSA and the CSS Profile.
In terms of merit-based scholarships, BU offers several prestigious awards. The most notable one is the Trustee Scholarship, which covers full tuition and is highly competitive. Selection is based on exceptional academic achievement and leadership. To apply, you'll need to submit an additional essay in response to the Trustee Scholarship prompt on the Common Application or Coalition Application.
Another merit-based opportunity is the Presidential Scholarship, which awards $25,000 per year to top students in the applicant pool. You don't have to submit a separate application for this scholarship; all applicants to BU are automatically considered.
There are also specific scholarships available for particular programs, such as the College of Fine Arts and the College of Engineering. Make sure to research BU's scholarship page for more information on these opportunities, as there might be additional applications or audition requirements depending on the program.
Finally, don't forget to explore external scholarships from organizations outside of BU. Many students find additional funding through these sources which can help offset the cost of attendance.
In summary, while financial aid at Boston University is a combination of need-based and merit-based assistance, the university is committed to helping students cover their college costs. To maximize your chances of securing aid, apply by the priority deadline and submit all necessary documents. Good luck!
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