Boston University Scholarships: A Guide for International Students
Boston University (BU) is one of the most vibrant, diverse, and highly-ranked private research universities in the United States. Located in the heart of Boston, Massachusetts, BU offers an incredible academic experience surrounded by a city famous for its history and innovation.
However, studying at a private American university can be expensive. For international students, finding the right financial support is crucial. While the U.S. financial aid system can seem confusing from the outside, this guide will simplify exactly what kind of funding is available to international students at Boston University and how you can apply for it.
Understanding BU’s Financial Aid Policy for International Students
When researching universities in the United States, international students need to understand the difference between need-based aid and merit-based scholarships.
Need-Based Aid
This is financial assistance given based on a family’s ability to pay. Boston University does not offer need-based financial aid to international students. Need-based aid at BU is restricted to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens.
Merit-Based Scholarships
This is financial assistance awarded based on your academic achievements, leadership, and extracurricular talents, regardless of your family’s income. International students are fully eligible for several highly competitive merit-based scholarships at Boston University.
Top Merit Scholarships for International Students at BU
Boston University offers several merit scholarships that are open to outstanding international students. The two most prominent are the Trustee Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship.
1. The Boston University Trustee Scholarship
Full Tuition + FeesThis is BU’s most prestigious and generous award. Every year, BU selects approximately 20 outstanding students to become Trustee Scholars.
The Trustee Scholarship covers full undergraduate tuition plus mandatory undergraduate student fees for all four years. It is essentially a full-tuition scholarship to one of America’s best universities.
Trustee Scholars are exceptional. They typically rank in the top 5% of their high school class and often have perfect 4.0 GPAs. While BU is test-optional, students who submit scores and win this award usually have SAT scores above 1500 or ACT scores above 33. Furthermore, the admissions committee looks for students who are intellectually adventurous and have demonstrated incredible leadership and achievements in their communities.
2. The Presidential Scholarship
$25,000 / YearThe Presidential Scholarship is another major merit award available to first-year international students.
This scholarship provides a massive $25,000 a year toward your tuition, and it is renewable for all four years of your undergraduate study.
Similar to the Trustee Scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship is awarded to students with outstanding academic records. They are looking for high achievers who have excelled both inside and outside the classroom.
How to Apply for BU Scholarships
The application process for these scholarships is tied directly to your admission application, but you must be mindful of strict deadlines.
Applying for the Presidential Scholarship
There is no separate application or extra essay required for the Presidential Scholarship. To be considered, you simply must submit your complete application for admission to Boston University by December 1st. The admissions committee will automatically review your file for this award.
Applying for the Trustee Scholarship
Because the Trustee Scholarship covers full tuition, the application process requires an extra step:
- Apply Early: You must submit your Common Application and all required materials for admission to BU by December 1st.
- The Trustee Essay: As part of your Common Application, you must complete the specific Trustee Scholarship essay. You will choose one of two provided prompts and write an essay (600 words or less) that showcases your unique perspectives, experiences, and academic passions.
Tips for International Applicants
The December 1st deadline is a hard deadline. If you submit your application on December 2nd, you will not be considered for the Trustee or Presidential Scholarships.
BU wants to know how you will contribute to their campus. In your essays and extracurricular lists, clearly show how you have been a leader or made a positive impact in your home country or local community.
As a merit scholar, especially a Trustee Scholar, you will be invited to join a unique community on campus that offers special cultural and intellectual events. BU is looking for students who will actively participate in these opportunities.
Conclusion
While Boston University does not offer need-based aid to international students, their commitment to merit-based funding makes them an excellent choice for high-achieving global scholars. By maintaining excellent grades, dedicating yourself to your extracurricular passions, and submitting your application by December 1st, you can compete for life-changing awards like the Trustee Scholarship.
If you have the academic brilliance and the drive to succeed in Boston, the financial support is available.
Ready to start your application to Boston University?
Find all the details on the Trustee Scholarship, the Presidential Scholarship, and the application process below:
