
4302 University Dr., Houston, TX 77204, USA


The University of Houston holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, which authorizes it to award bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets established standards of quality and rigor necessary for higher education.
In addition to its regional accreditation, specific programs within the university have received specialized accreditations that affirm their commitment to professional standards. These programmatic accreditations offer prospective students assurance that their chosen fields of study adhere to the quality benchmarks recognized within their disciplines.
Admission to University of Houston requires applicants to have completed a high school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must submit their secondary school transcript, including GPA and class rank, as these are mandatory criteria. While the university does not operate under an open admission policy, it does require evidence of completion of a college-preparatory program.
Applicants whose primary language is not English are required to submit TOEFL scores, and submitting other standardized test results is recommended to strengthen the application. Although computerized testing is not mandatory, computer leasing options are available. Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, but the institution does not offer dual credit or award credit for general college programs prior to enrollment.
Regarding standardized testing scores, University of Houston reports a mean SAT score of 1235, which ranks in the top 30 percent nationally, with particularly strong performance in math at 620 points. The mean ACT score is 26, placing it in the top 40 percent of test takers. Admission rates reveal a moderately selective process, with an acceptance rate of approximately 70 percent. The university receives a very high volume of applications annually, with over 30,000 applicants, and enrolls just under 6,000 students, indicating a competitive environment despite the relatively high acceptance rate.
The University of Houston charges an application fee for prospective students submitting their applications. This fee is a standard part of the admissions process and varies depending on the type of applicant.
Fee waivers are available for certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility criteria. These waivers help reduce barriers for students who might otherwise be deterred by the cost of applying.
Applicants interested in fee waivers must provide appropriate documentation or meet the university's set guidelines to qualify. Such provisions ensure that the application process is accessible and equitable for a diverse range of students.
University of Houston offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs directly on its campus, providing students the opportunity to engage in military leadership training while pursuing their academic studies. Additionally, students at University of Houston may also participate in ROTC through branch units located at cooperating host institutions, expanding access to these programs beyond the university grounds.
University of Houston allows transfer students to enroll in the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the year. The admission process is considered moderately difficult, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity that prospective transfer students should anticipate.
Transfer credit acceptance is a notable feature, as the university recognizes credits from other accredited institutions. This includes acceptance of credits earned through various examination programs such as CLEP subject tests, CLEP general exams, and DANTES exams, which can facilitate a smoother transition and potentially reduce the time needed to complete a degree.
The institution also accepts letters of recommendation as part of the transfer application, which can enhance a candidate's profile by providing additional context on their academic and personal qualifications.
University of Houston offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs range from short-term faculty-led trips to semester-long or year-long exchanges, allowing students to choose options that best fit their schedules and educational goals. Participants can study in numerous countries, gaining exposure to diverse academic environments and global perspectives.
Many programs are integrated with specific majors and disciplines, providing credit transfers that contribute directly to degree requirements. The university emphasizes immersive learning, encouraging students to engage deeply with host cultures through coursework, internships, and community involvement.
Additionally, University of Houston supports students with scholarships and advising services to facilitate access to international education, helping them navigate logistics such as visas, housing, and budgeting. These resources aim to make studying abroad a feasible and rewarding component of the university experience.
Median composite SAT score
1235Median composite ACT score
26Percent of students submitting ACT scores
12.7%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
45.6%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal 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 on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent 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
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer