Howard University
The Vibe Check
Howard University pulses with a dynamic energy rooted in Black excellence and a profound sense of purpose. The campus feels like a vibrant, tight-knit community where students are driven by a shared mission to lead and innovate. It's a place where intellectual curiosity meets cultural pride, creating an atmosphere that is both academically rigorous and deeply supportive.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
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
Howard is a national leader in educating African American students, with top-tier programs in business, communications, and the social sciences. The faculty are known for being accessible mentors who are experts in their fields, often involving undergraduates in high-level research. Students benefit from unique opportunities like the Howard University Research Centers and proximity to D.C.'s vast resources for internships and academic collaboration.
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 Washington
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., students have unparalleled access to world-class museums, monuments, and government agencies. The city offers vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like U Street and a rich music and arts scene that students often explore on weekends. Many students also take advantage of D.C.'s extensive public transit system for internships and cultural events.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($63,066):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Howard has its own dedicated campus police force and a well-lit campus with security protocols in place. As with any urban university, students are advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling off-campus into the broader D.C. area.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Prestigious reputation as a top HBCU with a powerful alumni network.
- ✓ Prime location in Washington, D.C. offers unmatched internship and career opportunities.
- ✓ Strong, supportive campus community and cultural environment.
- ✓ Excellent programs in business, communications, and the social sciences.
Cons
- ✗ High net price can be a financial burden despite aid.
- ✗ Urban setting requires students to be street-smart and aware of their surroundings.
- ✗ Campus facilities are historic and some may be in need of renovation.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Howard University is renowned as a leading private research university and a premier institution for African American higher education. It is known for its historic legacy, strong academic programs in business, communications, and the social sciences, and its production of leaders in law, medicine, politics, and the arts. Often called 'The Mecca,' it is a cultural and intellectual hub.
Howard is a selective university with an acceptance rate of 34.89%. While the average SAT score is around 1205, admissions are holistic, placing significant weight on your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars. A strong academic record combined with a demonstrated alignment with Howard's mission will make your application more competitive.
Campus life at Howard is vibrant and deeply communal, with a strong emphasis on cultural pride and student engagement. Students can choose from over 200 student organizations, including renowned marching bands, cultural groups, and professional societies. The campus is alive with events, lectures, and performances, set against the backdrop of the nation's capital.
For many students, Howard is a worthwhile investment due to its strong alumni network and the high earning potential of its graduates. With a 10-year median earnings of $63,066 and access to top-tier internships in D.C., the degree can provide a significant return on investment. The value is also found in the unique cultural and professional experience that a top HBCU offers.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 10,531
- In-State Tuition $33,344
- Zip Code 20059
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
While the sticker price is high, the average net price of $47,919 is significantly lower for many students due to robust financial aid, with over 40% receiving Pell Grants. The 10-year median earnings of $63,066 for graduates suggest a strong return on investment, especially for those in top majors like business and health professions. For students committed to their field, the degree from a prestigious HBCU like Howard can be a valuable investment in both career and network.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.