Boise State University
The Vibe Check
Boise State has a vibrant, energetic atmosphere centered around its iconic blue football field, creating a strong sense of school pride and community. The campus feels modern and connected to the city, with a culture that balances academic focus with easy access to outdoor adventures in the surrounding mountains and rivers.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Optional
This school does not require SAT/ACT scores for admission
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
The university is known for strong programs in health professions, business, and engineering, often with direct ties to local industries. Class sizes are generally manageable, fostering hands-on learning and undergraduate research opportunities, particularly in STEM and environmental fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Boise City
Students enjoy a mix of urban amenities and unparalleled outdoor access, with hiking, skiing, and river floating just minutes from campus. The downtown area offers a growing food scene, craft breweries, and a vibrant arts and music community.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($51,658):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus and surrounding Boise area are generally considered very safe, with low crime rates compared to many other cities. The university has a comprehensive campus safety program, including a well-lit campus and emergency alert systems.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Iconic and spirited campus culture centered on athletics
- ✓ Exceptional access to outdoor recreation (hiking, skiing, rivers)
- ✓ Strong value, especially for in-state students
- ✓ Growing city with a robust job market in tech and healthcare
Cons
- ✗ Harsh winters and cold weather can be a drawback
- ✗ Graduation rate is lower than the national average
- ✗ Limited national name recognition outside the Northwest
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Boise State is most famously known for its iconic blue football field (Bronco Stadium). Academically, it has growing strengths in health professions, engineering, business, and environmental science, with a focus on hands-on learning and community partnerships.
No, Boise State has a high acceptance rate of about 84%, making it an accessible option for most applicants. While admissions are not highly selective, a solid GPA and completed core coursework are important for acceptance.
Campus life is energetic and community-oriented, with a strong focus on school spirit, especially around football games. Students enjoy a mix of on-campus activities and easy access to Boise's vibrant downtown and endless outdoor recreation opportunities.
For in-state students, Boise State offers a strong financial value with low tuition and a solid return on investment based on 10-year earnings. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the major, but the growing Boise economy provides good career prospects.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 26,859
- In-State Tuition $8,782
- Out-of-State $26,976
- Zip Code 83725
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a low in-state tuition and an average net price below the national average, the ROI for Idaho residents is excellent. Out-of-state students pay more, but the strong regional reputation and growing economy in Boise can make the investment worthwhile for those in key majors like engineering and health.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.