University of Pennsylvania Vs Boston University: Compare Fees, Placement, Reviews
Compare University of Pennsylvania Vs Boston University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Pennsylvania Vs Boston University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
Compare University of Pennsylvania Vs Boston University based on their rankings, fees, programs, acceptance rate, admission requirements, placements, and more. Analyze University of Pennsylvania Vs Boston University on various parameters to choose the right university for International students.
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston UniversityStudent Ratings
Rating of colleges
3.4/5
2.7 Internships
3.9 Part time work
3.1 Post study jobs
4.1 Quality of faculty
3.4 Student Life
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3.8/5
3.1 Internships
2.8 Part time work
3.9 Post study jobs
4.5 Quality of faculty
4.5 Student Life
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston UniversityCourse Comparison
5 Popular courses in colleges
University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston University MS
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston University MBA/PGDM
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston University PG Certificate
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston University BBA
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston University M.A.
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Other courses
- B.E. / B.Tech (15 courses)
- B.A. (45 courses)
- Others PG (12 courses)
- M.Phil (5 courses)
- MSN (9 courses)
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- B.E. / B.Tech (8 courses)
- B.A. (67 courses)
- Others PG (28 courses)
- LL.M. (6 courses)
- B.Sc. (39 courses)
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University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston UniversityCollege Comparison
About College
Established Year
1740
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
299 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+5 More
Established Year
1839
Number of Campus
1
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
134 Acres
Accepted Exams
TOEFL+5 More
Established Year
-/-
Number of Campus
-/-
Number of Scholarships
-/-
Campus Size
-/-
Accepted Exams
-/-
University of Pennsylvania V/s Boston UniversityCampus Comparison
Campus videos & images
University of Pennsylvania_video
University of Pennsylvania_video
City Tour
Student Testimonial
Experience Penn
Welcomes International Students
Why Penn Engineering?
PENN Building
PENN Building
PENN Campus
PENN Campus
PENN Campus
Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
Annenberg School Library
Chemistry Library
Clinical Research Building
Moore School Building
Atheletic Ground
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Celebration at Campus
Classroom
Classroom
Convocation
Housing
Residential Services
International Students & Scholars Office
Student Activities at BU
BU welcomes students
Arvind & Chandan Nandlal Kilachand Honors College
South Campus Residences at BU
City Tour
BU Building
Rajen Kilachand Center for Integrated Life Science
BU Building
BU Leventhal Center
Boston University School of Law
BU East Campus
BU Campus
BU Campus
BU Campus
Atheletic Ground
Auditorium
Classroom
Classroom
Convocation
Dorm
Library
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Country Facts
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Study in USA
Diverse range of world-renowned institutions, offering cutting-edge program
Access to top-notch faculty, resources, and extensive alumni networks
Vibrant multicultural environment, fostering tolerance and global exposure
Stringent safety measures with campus police and emergency protocols
High living standards, comprehensive healthcare, and excellent infra
Access to diverse recreational activities and and natural attractions
Get a detailed view about the country. Add a college!
Student’s views on campus
Views on University of Pennsylvania campus
A
Anonymous
BA in Architecture - Batch of 2027
3.3
The campus is quite happening and safe as well.
Tips: So as a freshman, you will not have the option but to reside in campus housing in the first year of college. Following this, you are allowed to switch after, but till then, you will most likely be given a randomly assigned roommate as well. The campus is quite happening and safe as well. The Springs Flying is something to look forward to, and there are a lot of social gatherings in the form of mixers, games and events. The classes include active participation, which may help save your grades as well.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3675
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
R
Rohan Nagesh 
Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2025
2.7
The university has a good campus and loads of resources to live a wholesome student life.
Tips: The university is expensive and the city is not really that safe. The workload is high with a lot of assignments. The university offers a diverse range of courses but lacks concentration on one. Prospects of engineering jobs are low with not many university recruiters approaching students for post-study options.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 0
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
P
Priyanshu Mittal 
MSE Mechanical Engineering & Applied Mechanics - Batch of 2024
3.7
Give a second thought before applying.
Tips: The university life here is very much different from that in India. At least in engineering, students spend most of their time completing assignments and completing lectures. UPenn doesn't offer scholarships to Master's students but you can apply for part-time job as soon as you are on campus which will help you meet your living costs. Though the city is great, I would advise anybody who is coming to definitely give it a second thought as the job market right now is not good and doesn't look like will be better soon.
Likes (Public transportation): Philadelphia has buses, inter and intra-city trains, subways as well as trams. Also, it is easy to get cabs. Philadelphia as a city is small, hence, it is easy to go from one place to another through public transport. Furthermore, the university is located in the heart so one can go to most places by walking or cycling.
Dislikes (Value for money): Being an IVY League, the fee for the program is a lot. But compared to other universities UPenn doesn't have affiliation with the working industry. So the students don't get any benefit while looking for jobs in the market. At least in the US going to cheaper universities would be a better choice
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1100
Prepping time for classes40 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80000
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Engineering in Electrical Engineering - Batch of 2024
3
Challenging and Stressful but equally rewarding experience at this college.
Tips: There are no scholarships available and there is no significant cultural shift. Transitioning with respect to weather may take time. Overall, university courses are good but challenging, and finding jobs and internship can be difficult. While on-campus jobs are available and helpful, they do not offer any tuition fee waivers.
Likes (Quality of faculty): The faculty at this college are highly approachable and knowledgeable. They employ an intuitive teaching method and assign practical tasks. The teaching faculty is mostly of Asian and American background representing all types of specializations in Electrical engineering. The courses are rather challenging and not easy.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1100
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
R
Rajnish Gupta 
Scientific Computing, MSE - Batch of 0
3.5
Best learning experience.
Tips: The University might not exactly be what you expected. It is a great learning experience, and there are a lot of things to do, that it can become overwhelming and stressful at times. But if I were to choose to do it again, at some other time, with a better job market, I would. Try not to get distracted by a lot of things you see around you, as that can happen initially.
Likes (Public transportation): Philly has great and affordable public transport, you can reach pretty much anywhere in 30-40 mins, and most places of interest, downtown can be accessed in 10-15mins through the subway from University, and the transport runs at longer hours, although not the safest way to travel during certain hours the day if you're alone, but that comes in safety as per the city. The connectivity and timing itself are great.
Dislikes (Indian Food): There are no Indian food options in University dining, and in general Indian food options around Philly are although not limited, but are not excellent, or anywhere close to what you can find in cities like NYC, Jersey or Chicago. There is a lot of frozen food at Indian Stores, but that is not the most healthy option out there.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1025
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
MSE Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering - Batch of 2024
3.6
Biotech research powerhouse. Amazing opportunities.
Tips: For the CBE department, most research is in the biotech sector and so are the jobs and internships. Professors are very nice and will help you if you ask for it.
The courses are tough but are of very high quality. However, the CBE courses are very theoretical.
Dislikes (Safety): Philadelphia is not a very safe city. There are lots of break-ins and thefts. Cycles parked outside will get stolen even if locked. The Penn campus is very safe with good security. Penn also has shuttles that run at night and walking escorts for student safety.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2000
Prepping time for classes25 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Robotics, MSE - Batch of 2024
4.3
Lots of work and hard courses but great program. Effort is respected
Tips: The classes consist of diverse ethnicities and you hence experience an initial cultural shock. Scholarships are not available for MS students. RA opportunities are also very selective for MS students. TA opportunities are much easier to come by. Quite happy with my choice of university.
Likes (Student Life): Regular socializing events are conducted on campus. Study environment is not too stressful. Happy hours are organized once a month by every department and apart from that all the festivities also have an associated event. Regional festivities are dealt with by the Pan-Asian community and it depends on their yearly budget.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Hard to find a job that sponsors H1B. The green card process is another big headache. H1B is got through a lottery system and is then renewed every 3 years until you are eligible to apply for a green card. And you need to hold the green card for a certain number of years before you are eligible for citizenship.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1150
Prepping time for classes50 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
Views on Boston University campus
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Software Development - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.6
Great university and helpful staffs.
Tips: The transition from life back home and here is quite prevalent. But I had an easy time adapting as the city is very student-friendly and welcoming, and the university takes measures to help you out with administrative stuff once you arrive. No part-time jobs off campus, and for on-campus opportunities, there are limited spots. Public transport is free, and my experience has been quite great so far.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 1750
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 97550
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Applied Biostatistics - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.8
Student-friendly and diverse.
Tips: This is a lively city and I've never seen a campus as spread out as Boston University. The best aspects include the safety, easily accessible transportation and the fact that the whole town is student friendly. However the cost of rent and living is quite expensive. You'll need to compensate by budgeting carefully in other areas. Also tuition is very high so be sure you've considered this carefully before coming here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2350
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
I
Ishaani J 
Master of Arts in Emerging Media Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.5
The city is friendly, with many universities and students, making it a great college town.
Tips: Boston was a city that instantly drew me in. The people are friendly, and the city is filled with many universities and students; making it a great college town basically. I've also managed to find a good balance studying here. Accommodation is expensive, but you can save a lot on travel by carpooling, and most of the public transport is free. You'll be expected to engage in your classes and advocate for yourself if there are projects you wish to be a part of.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2550
Prepping time for classes34 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 86750
A
Anonymous
BA in Philosophy & Psychology - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.4
Boston is a welcoming city with friendly people.
Tips: Boston has been a truly wonderful and welcoming city. My university campuses are spread out, and there will be a lot of walking, but there is a tube system as well, which is pretty much free. I can vouch for the safety and weather here, although employment is limited, and not a lot of my friends have found jobs.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3450
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 92150
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Nutrition & Metabolism - Batch of 2028
Offered by Boston University
3.7
The classes are intense and big on projects.
Tips: The classes are intense and big on projects so if you are someone who likes that sort of setting you'll be set. Some people have a hard time adjusting her but there's support available especially mentally so don't be hesitant if you ever feel the need. My favorite ritual has been weekend potlucks with my friends and taking a day in exploring a new place. Keep yourself engaged and you'll have a good time. Great experiences
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2975
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 90600
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Biostatistics - Batch of 2027
Offered by Boston University
4
The campus is very diverse; the faculty is very helpful.
Tips: There is a slight cultural shift at the beginning but it doesn't take too long to feel welcome and not out of place. The professors are very involved and happy to help. Moreover, they are quick in mailing back, especially if you're in a fix. Keep an open mind and take your time getting to know the place, you'd be pleasantly surprised.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2550
Prepping time for classes35 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 88300
A
Anonymous
Master of Arts in Preservation Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.6
Great academics and interactive classes.
Tips: I have liked the sense of security, the warmth of people, the class structures and the weather. What proves to be a challenge is the job market and the immigration policies, which limit all sorts of chances to actually work there. Always remember to scan your receipts, get Apple Pay and use your student discounts.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 4350
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Anonymous
Master of Arts in Classical Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.2
Beautiful but cold city.
Tips: Boston university must be one of the most well-known and widespread campuses in the entirety of Boston. It is divided into multiple different schools such as Questrom, the business school. Your safety is assured as well as there are many campus cops and patrols. Strike a good rapport with your professors as each good referral will take you a long way.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3250
Prepping time for classes31 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 79050
A
Anonymous
MS/MBA in Product Design and Manufacture - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.7
Good colleagues and environment.
Tips: I have seen changes in my mentality, in my problem-solving abilities and in the way I perceive things, which I can credit to the time I have spent here so far. It is a very student-friendly and accommodating city, and the campus is beyond extensive. Good classmates, and even though finding a job here is among the most difficult tasks yet, there have been situations where the hardworking has paid off. Rent is expensive, so you can cut costs by using public transport or cooking for yourself. The optional reading is actually compulsory, and showing energy in class is really appreciated.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3075
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 84450
A
Anonymous
Online Master of Science in Supply Chain Management - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.9
The cost of living and tuition are a little higher as compared to other colleges.
Tips: BU is one of the most happening colleges in this part of Boston. There are all sorts of people and students, and diversity is plenty. However, the cost of living and tuition are a little higher than at other American universities. Do your own cooking instead of eating out most of the time to cut costs. If you are not a citizen, it can get tricky to find a job here.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3025
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
M
Mehar 
Master of Arts in Psychology - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.7
It has been an empowering and overwhelming expereince.
Tips: I didn't expect the course loads to be as intense as they have been, but then again, if I'm studying psychology, it's important to be thorough. That is something that the professors at Boston University really do emphasise. Moreover, I feel like the program has been a good balance of theory and practical experience, which has really enhanced my learning. I think this is a great place to study.
Likes (Safety): Boston is filled with universities and people, so there is plenty of police force both in and around campus to ensure maximum safety. In fact, the crime rate is also lower than in other American cities, and people watch out for one another here as well.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2600
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 91375
R
ROhit Deshpande 
BA in International Relations/MA in International Affairs - Batch of 2024
Offered by Boston University
3.8
Boston is a very expensive city to live so be prepared to budget everything.
Tips: As someone who has always dreamed of working in politics or diplomacy, Boston University offers a very promising programme where you will be given exposure and learning that is hard to find elsewhere. The fellow students are very intellectual as well, and you will be pushed to prove yourself. The downside is that Boston is a very expensive city to live so be prepared to budget everything while you're here. My advisor has also been truly helpful throughout.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3625
Prepping time for classes36 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 73650
A
Anonymous
Master of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
4
BU is an expensive school and the return on investment is not as promising as the amount you spend.
Tips: I have seen a lot of changes throughout myself and the country in the time I have spent here. I have been pleasantly surprised by how involved, passionate, and open-minded the professors and pedagogy have been here. The overall vibe here is always very energetic, and there's always something to look forward to. There are also a lot of cops stationed around the city, which makes it very safe to live.
Dislikes (Value for money): BU is an expensive school and the return on investment is not as promising as the amount you spend to study there. Furthermore there's no job guarantee, so student loan repayments could get complicated.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2500
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
A
Arjun Bhatt 
Master of Arts in Energy & Environment - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.4
Boston is a student-friendly city but the course work can be very intense.
Tips: The best thing about Boston is how student-friendly the city is and how accommodating it is to diversity. There are a number of prominent universities in and around the city, and there’s a tram service throughout the city that’s practically free for students. I do wish the course loads were less intense at times, though. There have been weeks when I barely had time to do anything aside from my academics.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Honestly, if you require a sponsorship to work in the United States, you will not be able to secure a role here very easily. This has been the case for almost all students throughout the country, to the point that some colleges are simply not taking in any more international students.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3400
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 80575
A
Annanya 
Master of Arts in Emerging Media Studies - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.6
BU's campus is spread out throughout the city making it very well known.
Tips: So coming from a smaller town studying at Boston University was a truly special experience. BU's campus is spread out throughout the city as there are multiple buildings and schools under BU all across the city making it very well known throughout. You're not allowed to work outside of campus but if you are proactive and involved enough you can get roles as teaching assistants and in research.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2600
Prepping time for classes32 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 71325
S
sreeram 
MS in Computer Science - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.9
The university is decent but very expensive.
Tips: Before joining BU, know that it's a large, vibrant urban campus with strong academics and lots of opportunities, but also a fast-paced environment where you need to be proactive. Transitioning involved getting used to the city, the academic rigour, and a more independent lifestyle; the cultural shift wasn't drastic, but adjusting to different social norms and a diverse student body took some time. I did receive a merit-based scholarship through my application, which significantly helped with tuition costs, though the exact amount varies. Overall, I'm very satisfied with BU's academics, the diverse courses offered, and studying in Boston, a city with so much history and student life.
Likes (Safety): BU and the surrounding areas generally feel quite safe, especially with the presence of campus police and well-lit areas. However like any city you need to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. BU offers the Scarlet SafeWalk programme for escorts at night, emergency blue light call boxes across campus and a comprehensive BU Alert system for timely notifications. There are also security personnel in dorms and educational programs on safety awareness.
Dislikes (Permanent Immigration): Permanent immigration is something some international students consider but it's not the primary focus for most during their studies. It depends a lot on individual career paths and opportunities after graduation. Permanent settlement isn't my primary focus right now as a student. My chances would depend on future job prospects and visa options after graduation which are uncertain. While the US has its attractions, permanent immigration is a significant decision that involves long-term goals and family, so it's not a definite "yes" at this stage.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2000
Prepping time for classes15 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD
P
Priyaditi 
Master of Fine Arts in Film & Television Studies - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.1
Boston is a very historic city while being extremely developed.
Tips: The college and where it is located provides the perfect blend of history and modernity as Boston is a very historic city while being extremely developed as well. People in and out of college are friendly, and it won't take very long to adjust here. Weather is unpredictable and a little extreme.
Likes (Indian Food): In this college town, there are tons of Indian restaurants and grocery stores, so food isn’t an issue. I think you should cook for yourself to cut back on expenses, as it might get pricey to support yourself here. There are a lot of different options available, and I think the quality is quite good.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3075
Prepping time for classes29 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 65925
N
Nikita 
Master of Engineering in Systems Engineering - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
3.5
Boston University provides hands-on and more practical form of learning.
Tips: I like the hands-on and more practical form of learning here, where students are encouraged to think critically and examine every problem from multiple angles. I think this trains you well and has an impact in the long run. I did not avail myself of any scholarships, but a lot of my friends have received some form of financial aid. I would love to settle here if I ever got the opportunity. Initially, I'd planned on coming here to work for a few years, but the setting's become very unpredictable, and my chances of doing so are a lot lower. Everyone is looking for a job, but sponsorship makes things more complicated. I would say I’m fairly satisfied with Boston University so far.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 2975
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 64400
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Biology - Batch of 2025
Offered by Boston University
3.9
The quality of education is excellent.
Tips: There was a bit of a culture shock for me as I had arrived a week after orientation and ended up missing a lot of the important aspects that were covered. Other than that, the process was smooth. I got to be a part of the South Asian Society, which is a campus community of students from asian countries to maintain and preserve their culture. Being a part of research projects has brought out a lot of my potential, and the quality of education is excellent.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3300
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 73650
A
Anonymous
Master of Science in Statistical Practice - Batch of 2026
Offered by Boston University
4
It has been an enriching learning process.
Tips: I was a little unsure about my decision initially, as I had a different college in mind, but since I got a merit-based scholarship, tuition became more affordable here. I also landed a decent internship back in India, which makes things better. You will have a good time if you are genuinely passionate about your program and you contribute to research and academia as that is really value here. Be ahead with course registration and ensure quality feedback.
Dislikes (Part time work): Part-time work used to be a lot easier to get, but now they’ve become very strict regarding the paperwork and eligibility requirements, which has left even fewer options than before. You can try finding work on campus. If you do, you might be able to get a position at one of the cafes, with one of the student-run clubs, or as a research assistant.
Total Monthly ExpenseUSD 3400
Prepping time for classes30 hours/Week
Expected Annual SalaryUSD 85975
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