Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given Boston College's 15.7% acceptance rate, most applicants—even academically exceptional ones—will need alternative options. The schools below deliver comparable career outcomes with more accessible admission, different geographic locations, or better affordability.
These schools offer higher acceptance rates while delivering comparable career outcomes.
For similar outcomes with better admission prospects, consider Worcester Polytechnic Institute (58.5% acceptance) just 33 miles away, producing graduates earning $103,470. Bryant University in Rhode Island admits 65.6% of applicants while graduates earn $90,008, located 34 miles from Boston College. Both institutions offer strong business and technical programs with significantly more realistic admission rates.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
Students wanting to stay in Massachusetts should consider Northeastern University (5.7% acceptance, $92,538 earnings) just 4 miles away for similar urban advantages. Bentley University (48.4% acceptance, $120,959 earnings) sits 4 miles from Boston College and delivers higher graduate earnings with more accessible admission for business-focused students.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
Similar quality tier in Northeast (#182 ranked)