Competitiveness of International Studies Major at BC

Hi all!

I want to major in international studies but BC has a separate application at the end of freshmen year. Only about 100 students are accepted per year to the major. How competitive is this application process of declaring international studies as a major at BC? Approximately how many students apply each year? What are the requirements because on their FAQ it says “not all students are eligible to apply” ?

Whether I choose to attend BC or not is greatly dependent on this

In recent years, the acceptance rate for International Studies has been nearly 50%, sometimes over that. Students with a 3.5 first-year GPA and strong essays (three essays pertaining to why you want international studies and your career aspirations are also required) are virtual locks. Students with under 3.5 GPA’s are also allowed in every year with strong essays.

There is also an application process at the end of the first semester of sophomore year during which you could apply again if you need another semester to improve your grades.

The department is actively growing, hiring more faculty next year and adding courses, to accommodate the continued increase in this field.

Hope this helps!

–Boston College Undergraduate Admission