Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Boston University vs Williams College

Boston, MA · Williamstown, MA · Source: IPEDS federal database

Boston UniversityWilliams College
Acceptance Rate10.8%10.0%
In-State Tuition$65,168$64,860
Out-of-State Tuition$65,168$64,860
Average Net Price$14,465$1,816
Graduation Rate90.0%97.0%

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Boston University accepts 10.8% of applicants; Williams College accepts 10.0%. Tuition is close: $65,168 at Boston University, $64,860 at Williams College. Boston University graduates 90% of students in 6 years. Williams College graduates 97%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Boston University profileWilliams College profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Boston University or Williams College?

Williams College. It accepts 10.0% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Boston University or Williams College more affordable?

Williams College has lower published tuition: $64,860 versus $65,168. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Williams College: 97% of students finish in 6 years. Boston University is at 90%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Boston University vs Williams College: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax