
One Main Street Office of Admissions, Suite GSB308, Houston, TX 77002, USA


University of Houston-Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor's and master's degrees. This regional accreditation ensures that the institution meets rigorous standards for quality in areas such as faculty qualifications, curriculum, student support, and institutional effectiveness.
University of Houston-Downtown requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or its equivalent. Applicants must provide a secondary school record and demonstrate a minimum grade point average as part of the admissions process. Additionally, secondary school class rank is required. Admission to a relevant college program at the university is also compulsory.
English language proficiency must be demonstrated through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for non-native speakers. While the university recommends submission of letters of recommendation and proof of certain competencies, these are not mandatory for admission. Other standardized test scores may be submitted if available but are not strictly required.
The university does not have an open admission policy, meaning it evaluates applications based on its set criteria rather than admitting all applicants. While dual credit programs are not accepted for admission, both college credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are recognized and can contribute to the student's academic progress.
The admissions acceptance rate is notably high at 91%, placing the university among institutions with a lenient acceptance threshold. Of those applicants, a majority are admitted, with a strong enrollment rate following the acceptances. Admissions data indicate a balanced representation between women and men applicants, and the university's selective criteria reflect an average applicant pool.
The University of Houston-Downtown requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of the admissions process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs involved in processing and reviewing applications. However, the exact amount of the application fee is not specified here.
For applicants concerned about the financial burden, the university offers fee waivers under certain conditions. Eligible students may apply for a waiver based on financial hardship or if they participate in designated programs that qualify them for such assistance. These waivers aim to ensure access to higher education is not hindered by the cost of application fees.
Prospective applicants interested in fee waivers should consult the university's admissions office or official website to understand the eligibility criteria and application procedures. It is important to provide any requested documentation promptly to facilitate consideration for a waiver.
University of Houston-Downtown does not have its own ROTC branch unit on campus. However, students interested in participating in ROTC programs may do so through a cooperating host institution that offers these opportunities. This arrangement enables prospective students to pursue military training and education while enrolled at University of Houston-Downtown by coordinating with nearby institutions that maintain active ROTC programs.
University of Houston-Downtown allows transfer students to enroll in multiple terms throughout the academic year, including fall, spring, and summer sessions. Prospective transfers have the option to submit credits earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) for subject exams as well as Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) credits.
The university accepts transfer credits, which can facilitate a smoother transition for students coming from other institutions. Additionally, recommendations from previous academic work are considered during the admission process, supporting a comprehensive evaluation of transfer applicants.
University of Houston-Downtown offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance the academic experience and global perspective of its students. These programs cater to different academic interests and schedules, allowing students to engage in international education through faculty-led trips, semester exchanges, and short-term experiences. Participants have the chance to earn academic credit while immersing themselves in diverse cultural environments.
Some programs focus on specific disciplines, enabling students to apply their studies in real-world contexts abroad. Additionally, the university provides support for prospective study abroad students in the form of advising and preparation resources to ensure they meet academic requirements and can navigate the logistical aspects of international travel. Hands-on learning combined with exposure to global issues helps students develop valuable intercultural competencies.
The flexible nature of these programs accommodates students who may have concerns about committing to long-term travel, with options available during summer terms or breaks. This variety ensures that a wide range of students can participate regardless of their academic calendar or personal circumstances.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
6%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
64%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission 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
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer