Boston University’s admission pages state that the Early Decision deadline for fall 2027 entry is November 2, with decisions released December 14, and that applicants to the College of Engineering must have a year of calculus. Irvine 12th graders applying to engineering at Boston University need to confirm both the deadline and their math coursework.
Who Is Affected by the Boston University Early Decision Deadline
High school seniors applying to Boston University through the Common App. The main dates are:
| Round | Application, CSS Profile, and FAFSA | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Early Decision | November 2 | December 14 |
| Early Decision 2 | January 5, 2027 | February 8 |
| Regular Decision | January 5, 2027 | Not listed on the deadlines page |
Most merit scholarships require an application by December 1. Early Decision is binding, and the agreement must be signed by the applicant, a parent or guardian, and a school counselor; admitted students must submit an enrollment deposit and withdraw all other applications. Early Decision applicants who are deferred are reviewed again after mid-year grades arrive and receive a final decision in late March.
What to Do Now About the Boston University Early Decision Deadline
Check math coursework against the intended program. Boston University recommends three to four years of mathematics for most programs, with precalculus or calculus recommended. The College of Engineering requires a year of calculus, and the Questrom School of Business requires a year of calculus or a year of precalculus plus a year of AP Statistics. Research on the weight of calculus in engineering admissions is covered in Calculus in Engineering Admissions.
Decide whether to submit test scores. Boston University remains test optional through fall 2028. Early Decision applicants who submit scores must take the ACT no later than the October date or the SAT no later than November.
Write two essays. Applicants submit the Common App personal statement and the Boston University supplemental essay; those seeking the Kilachand Honors College write an additional essay. The application fee is $80, with waivers available.
College lists and application rounds are covered by the EDUBUS college admissions planning service, and supplemental essays by the College Essay Bootcamp.
Sources
- Boston University: Important Deadlines (accessed October 17, 2026)
- Boston University: Early Decision at BU (accessed October 17, 2026)
- Boston University: First-Year Applicants (accessed October 17, 2026)
- Boston University: Standardized Test Policy (accessed October 17, 2026)
- Middlebury ED Due November 2, No SupplementMiddlebury College's Early Decision I deadline is November 2, and it requires no supplemental essay, so the main essay carries more weight. Dates and requirements.
- Occidental Early Decision Due November 1Occidental College's Early Decision I and Early Action deadlines are November 1, applying is free, and Early Decision admits receive at least $20,000 a year.
- Santa Clara Early Deadlines Are November 1Santa Clara University's Early Decision I and Early Action deadlines are November 1, and it offers an optional 150 to 300 word supplemental essay. Dates and materials.
- Wesleyan Early Decision Due November 15Wesleyan University's Early Decision I application and financial aid deadlines are both November 15, and aid applicants pay no application fee. Dates and materials.
