About

About Boise State University

high research activityaccessible admissionshealth sciences focusbusiness and nursing strength

Boise State University is a public research university in Boise, ID, known for its accessible admissions, health sciences focus, and business and nursing strength. With an acceptance rate of 84%, BSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 3,132 students each year. BSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 960–1180, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. BSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $5,481 per year; the sticker price of $44,015 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Boise State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

84%
Overall Accept Rate
3.50
Typical Admitted GPA
1070
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 960 – 1180 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Boise State University

Application Strategy
Boise State has strong programs in computer science, nursing, and business, so name your specific program in your application and connect it to your academic interests and career goals. Admissions officers want to see that you have a real reason for choosing Boise State beyond it being an affordable option.
Essay Strategy
Essays are a low priority factor at Boise State, so keep yours clear and genuine rather than overthinking it. Write a focused, personal response that shows who you are without spending weeks on extensive rewrites.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Boise State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$44k/yr$18.2k
30k-48k~$44k/yr$18.0k
48k-75k~$44k/yr$20.7k
75k-110k~$44k/yr$23.6k
110k+~$44k/yr$25.9k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

62%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$45k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
18:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
15,968
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

69%White
16%Hispanic
6%Two or More Races
3%Unknown / Unreported
3%Asian
2%Black / African American
1%International
1%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender43% Men · 57% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status99% Citizens and Immigrants · 1% International
BSU, Boise Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch