Bentley University is a private university located in Waltham, Massachusetts, about 10 miles west of Boston. Founded in 1917, the institution focuses primarily on business education while also offering programs in the arts and sciences. Bentley is organized around an undergraduate school and a graduate school of business, and it is known for integrating business study with technology, analytics, and the liberal arts. The university serves undergraduate and graduate students seeking careers in areas such as finance, accounting, marketing, management, and information design. Its suburban campus provides access to the professional and academic opportunities of the greater Boston area.
With a 45.05% acceptance rate, Bentley University is moderately selective. Applicants are expected to show good academic performance and readiness for college-level coursework. Students with consistent grades, extracurricular involvement, and a well-prepared application are typically competitive for admission.
Bentley University was founded in 1917 in Boston, Massachusetts, by Harry C. Bentley as the Bentley School of Accounting and Finance. Created to provide specialized training in accounting and finance, the school quickly grew during the early twentieth century. Through the 1930s and 1940s, Bentley expanded its facilities in Boston and maintained stable enrollment during challenging economic periods. In the early 1960s, the institution moved to a new campus in Waltham, reflecting its transition to collegiate status and broader academic ambitions. Over time, Bentley College expanded its curriculum beyond accounting to include diverse business disciplines and arts and sciences programs. In 2008, Bentley College officially became Bentley University, marking its evolution into a comprehensive business-focused university. Today, Bentley University continues to develop programs that integrate business education with technology and the liberal arts.
Bentley University has a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, providing a balance between personalized instruction and a broader classroom environment. Students can expect opportunities to engage with professors while also benefiting from diverse perspectives in class discussions.
Applying to Bentley University involves submitting an online application, academic transcripts, and supporting materials such as essays and recommendations. As a private university in Waltham, Massachusetts, Bentley University evaluates students for their academic preparation, interest in business and related fields, and overall fit with its programs. Prospective students should review current admissions requirements, deadlines, and optional standardized testing policies directly through Bentley University to ensure accurate and up-to-date information.
Bentley University offers a range of financial aid options, including need-based aid, merit scholarships, and federal and state assistance programs. Students applying to Bentley University typically complete the FAFSA and may be asked for additional documentation to determine eligibility. Understanding tuition costs, scholarship opportunities, and financing options is an important part of the planning process for families considering Bentley University.
Unive helps applicants prepare competitive submissions to Bentley University through AI-powered support for personal essays, extracurricular planning, and strategic application positioning. Students can refine their writing, clarify their academic interests, and identify meaningful activities that align with Bentley University’s programs. Unive also assists with financial aid discovery, helping families identify relevant scholarships and funding opportunities.
Join thousands of students using Unive to craft standout applications for their dream schools.
＋ Add to My College ListIs the information about Bentley University accurate and helpful?
University Selection
Scholarships
Common App Essay
Recommendation Letters
Interview Prep
Admission Consulting