Boston University Merit Scholarships 2025 are prestigious awards offered to academically outstanding students from around the world. Boston University offers a range of merit scholarships for domestic and international students, including some that cover full tuition, to recognize exceptional students for their academic excellence and talents in areas like athletics, performance, and the arts. These scholarships aim to recognize and support high-achieving individuals throughout their undergraduate journey.
The Boston University Merit Scholarships are highly competitive and do not require a financial aid application or repayment. Recipients are usually in the top 5% of their high school class and have demonstrated strong involvement and leadership in extracurricular and community activities. Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (for most merit-based scholarships)
University/Institution Details
- Name: Boston University (BU)
- Place: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Ranking: Ranked #43 in National Universities (U.S. News & World Report 2024)
- Programs Offered: Over 300 programs across undergraduate and graduate levels
- Program Duration: Typically 4 years for undergraduate degrees
Types of Merit Scholarship:
- Trustee Scholarship
- Presidential Scholarship
- College of Engineering FIRST Robotics
Study Areas
Students can choose from a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Engineering
- Business
- Health Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Communications
- Natural Sciences
- Law and Public Affairs
Boston University Merit Scholarships Benefits
Trustee Scholarship
- Awarded to approximately 20 exceptional students annually.
- Covers full undergraduate tuition plus mandatory fees.
- Renewable for 4 years, subject to maintaining criteria
Visit: Boston University Trustee Scholarship 2025 in the USA
Presidential Scholarship
- Awarded annually to incoming first-year students.
- Covers half of undergraduate tuition.
- Renewable for up to 4 years.
College of Engineering FIRST Scholarship
- Four-year, half tuition scholarship.
Benefits Not Included
- Housing and meal plans
- Health insurance
- Books and supplies
- Personal expenses and travel costs
Eligibilities for Boston University Merit Scholarships
Trustee Scholarship
- Recognizes students with intellectual curiosity, creativity, and unique perspectives or achievements.
- Recipients often have perfect 4.0 GPAs and are top-ranked in their class.
- Complete the Trustee Scholarship essay as part of the application.
- International students are considered for the Trustee and Presidential Scholarships only.
Presidential Scholarship
- Recognizes exceptional academic achievement and leadership.
- Recipients are among the most academically talented and active in their schools/communities.
- Effective for students entering Fall 2025.
- No additional essays or forms required.
- International students are considered for the Trustee and Presidential Scholarships only.
College of Engineering FIRST Scholarship
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Submit College of Engineering application and supporting documents by January 4.
- A FIRST team advisor must submit a recommendation form and letter by February 1.
- For students with at least one full season of high school participation in the FIRST Robotics program.
- Must be admitted to BU’s College of Engineering.
- Includes research funding for up to 10 hours/week with a faculty member during the first two years.
- Students with a 3.40 GPA or higher are guaranteed admission to a BU Engineering Master of Science program.
Required Documents
- Completed Common Application
- Academic transcripts
- Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT – optional but recommended)
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
Trustee Scholarship Essay
- Essay Instructions:
- Choose one of the following prompts.
- Limit: 600 words or less.
- Essay Prompts:
- Reflect on a book, film, podcast, or life experience that connects you to your personal history or identity. What did you learn from it?
- Describe a time you stepped out of your comfort zone and forged a new path. What motivated you, what changed, and what lessons did you learn?
Boston University Merit Scholarships Application Process
- Submit the Common Application and all supporting materials by December 1.
- Choose the program of interest and ensure all required materials are uploaded by December 1, 2024.
- No separate application is needed for most merit scholarships.
- For the Trustee Scholarship, submit an additional essay (required).
- Wait for the decision notification from BU’s admissions office.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early and double-check the deadline
- Maintain excellent academic records
- Write a compelling personal essay with a unique story
- Highlight leadership, service, and achievements in your application
- Prepare well for any optional standardized tests
- Carefully proofread your entire application before submission
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
On average, international students may spend around $2,000 to $2,500 per month in Boston, covering:
- Rent and utilities: $1,200–$1,800
- Food: $300–$500
- Transportation: $80–$150
- Miscellaneous/personal: $100–$200
For Details:
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Boston University offers a world-class education in a dynamic city, backed by generous merit scholarships. With state-of-the-art facilities, top-ranked faculty, and global connections, BU empowers students to reach their full potential. Choosing this opportunity not only reduces financial burden but also opens doors to leadership, innovation, and a global career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need a separate application for BU Merit Scholarships?
A: No, most merit scholarships are automatically considered with your application. Only the Trustee Scholarship requires an additional essay.
Q2: Can international students apply for BU Merit Scholarships?
A: Yes, international students are fully eligible for merit-based awards.
Q3: Are the scholarships renewable?
A: Yes, scholarships are renewable for four years if you maintain good academic standing.
Q4: What GPA is needed to be competitive?
A: A GPA of 3.8 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) is typically competitive, but holistic factors are also considered.
Q5: What is the difference between the Trustee and Presidential Scholarships?
A: Trustee Scholarships cover full tuition and are highly competitive. Presidential Scholarships offer $25,000 per year toward tuition.
Official Link for More Details and Application
Visit the official BU scholarship page:
