Chances of Getting Into Howard University
Washington, D.C. • Private University • #81 National • Founded 1867
Howard Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Howard SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Howard University
Howard University is the most prestigious historically Black university in America, producing more Black PhDs, doctors, and lawyers than any other institution. Located in Washington, D.C., Howard is known as 'The Mecca' for its cultural significance and elite alumni network.
Top Programs
What Makes Howard Unique
- 'The Mecca' — the most prestigious HBCU in America
- Produces more Black professionals (doctors, lawyers, PhDs) than any other school
- D.C. location provides unmatched access to policy, government, and media
- Alumni include Thurgood Marshall, Kamala Harris, Toni Morrison, Chadwick Boseman
- Homecoming is one of the most iconic college events in the nation
Howard Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Howard Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Howard: Admission Tips
Howard has become significantly more selective (30% now)
ED gives a notable advantage in admissions
Show alignment with Howard's mission of service and excellence
D.C. access for internships should feature in your essays
Communication and political science are standout programs
The Brutal Truth About Howard Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 30% acceptance rate, Howard rejected over 25,900 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Howard, having a 3.7 GPA and 1265 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Howard doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Howard genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 30%-acceptance-rate basket.
Howard Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Howard University?
Howard University has an acceptance rate of 30% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 37,000+ applicants, approximately 2,000 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Howard?
The average GPA of admitted students at Howard University is 3.7. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.55, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Howard?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Howard students is 1180-1350. The average SAT score is 1265. For ACT, the range is 25-30 with an average of 28.
Is Howard hard to get into?
Yes, Howard University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 30%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Howard cost?
Tuition at Howard University is $30,696 per year, with total cost of attendance at $48,400. However, 65% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $18,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Howard?
Your chances of getting into Howard University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 30% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
What Are Your Chances at Howard?
Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.
Trusted by 65+ students. AI-powered. Takes 2 minutes.
Popular Majors at Howard
Explore Your Chances by GPA
See which schools match your academic profile based on GPA alone.