
2400 Sixth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20059-0002, USA


Howard University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which is a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational programs, administration, and student services.
Additionally, several of Howard University's individual schools and programs have received specialized accreditation from professional organizations. These accreditations pertain to specific fields of study, ensuring that the curriculum and training meet industry and academic standards required for professional practice and licensure.
Prospective students seeking admission to Howard University must have completed a secondary education, with a General Educational Development (GED) credential accepted as equivalent. The university requires applicants to present a strong secondary school record and maintain a satisfactory grade point average. Recommendations from educators or professionals are also necessary components of the application.
Howard University mandates proof of competency in English through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for non-native speakers, while additional testing is recommended but not strictly required. Although the institution does not impose an open admission policy, applicants are expected to have completed preparatory college-level programs prior to enrollment.
Standardized admissions testing results, including SAT and ACT scores, are considered, with the university's average SAT score positioned at 1185 and an average ACT score of 24. These scores place admitted students generally in competitive percentiles; however, the acceptance rate remains selective, at approximately 35%, indicating a rigorous admissions environment.
Howard University does accept Advanced Placement (AP) credits but does not offer dual credit or computer leasing programs as part of its admission privileges. Overall, the admissions process is comprehensive, emphasizing academic performance, test results, and recommendations to evaluate the suitability of candidates.
Howard University requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admissions process. The standard application fee is set to cover administrative costs associated with processing applications.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need may be eligible to request a fee waiver. These waivers aim to reduce financial barriers for students who might otherwise be unable to afford the application costs. To obtain a waiver, students typically must provide supporting documentation or meet specific criteria established by the university.
It is advisable that prospective students contact the admissions office or consult the university's official resources to confirm current application fees and the procedure for applying for a fee waiver, as these details can change and may vary by program or applicant status.
Howard University offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs that are structured as branch units operating both on-campus and through cooperating host institutions. This setup provides prospective students with options to participate directly within the university's own ROTC branch or engage through affiliated external institutions, depending on their preferences and logistical considerations.
Howard University accepts transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing prospective students with multiple entry points throughout the academic year. The institution permits the transfer of previously earned college credits, which can facilitate a smoother transition for students coming from other colleges.
Gaining admission as a transfer student can be described as moderately difficult, indicating that applicants should ensure their academic records and credentials meet the university's standards. However, specific details regarding acceptance of certain credit types such as CLEP or DANTES are not available. Prospective transfers should prepare accordingly, knowing that the university does accept prior coursework but may evaluate credits on a case-by-case basis.
Howard University offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to provide students with immersive international experiences that complement their academic pursuits. These programs enable students to engage with diverse cultures and global perspectives while earning academic credit toward their degrees.
The university supports multiple formats of study abroad, including faculty-led short-term programs, semester exchanges, and summer sessions abroad. Faculty-led programs allow students to travel together under the guidance of Howard University professors, often focusing on specific disciplines or research interests relevant to the participants.
Additionally, semester or year-long exchanges provide opportunities for students to study at partner institutions around the world. These arrangements facilitate deeper cultural integration and broaden academic horizons by exposing students to different educational systems and environments.
Howard University also encourages participation in international internships, service-learning projects, and research collaborations that take place overseas, offering practical and professionally relevant experiences. The programs emphasize support for students from diverse academic backgrounds and seek to foster global citizenship and leadership skills.
Median composite SAT score
1185Median composite ACT score
24Percent of students submitting ACT scores
16%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
47%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer