Howard University, a historically black university in the nation's capital, Washington D.C., prides itself in leadership, social justice, and academic excellence. While SAT Exam or ACT exam normally take precedence, Howard has offered a test-optional policy in which applicants are allowed to determine whether or not to submit the scores. When applying, prospective students should focus on three key factors: standardized test scores, the university’s acceptance rate, and their overall fit with Howard’s values. Admission as a freshman offers opportunities for academic achievement, personal growth, and involvement in a community dedicated to producing leaders who contribute to society.

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Did You Know Facts About Howard University?

• Founded: It was founded in 1867 when Howard University offered a rich legacy of academic excellence and leadership in higher education.
• Enrollment: With more than 10,000 students, the university has an enrollment that allows for a diversified and dynamic academic community.
• Campus: Howard's is located on a campus in Washington, D.C. State-of-the-art facilities include research labs, student centers, and performance spaces.
• Programs: It offers a large number of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, covering fields such as business, law, medicine, engineering, and social sciences.

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Howard University Admissions Requirements

A strong application to Howard University, however, shows more than SAT scores and GPA: it should reveal unique qualities, experiences, and a clear connection to the university. It would involve a personal statement, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities. Applicants need to have a GPA, competitive test scores, and a challenging high school curriculum, as well as a well-rounded profile. The admissions process emphasizes both academic and personal achievements. Moreover, knowing these requirements will enable students to gear up with well-rounded applications that will feature your strengths and potential.

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Howard University SAT Scores Requirements

Does Howard University require SAT? The answer is yes, it requires SAT scores for admissions. The SAT test is scored using a standardized scale to evaluate the Evidenced Based Reading and Writing and Math capability of students. Howard University leans almost entirely on the use of SAT scores for admitted applicants as an indicator of readiness for college level. Find out more about Howard University SAT scores below.

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Howard University Average SAT Scores of the Average Students Admitted

A competitive required average SAT score for Howard University is 1184. However, the school admits students with scores outside that range if other features of the application stand out. Below is the distribution of SAT scores of admitted students: 

Howard University SAT Scores Distribution 

The SAT Composite Score Table gives a summary of the average SAT scores that prospective students should target for higher chances of getting admitted into Howard University. In addition, Howard University does not have a SAT superscoring policy. If your score is below the 25th percentile, then you will rely on other great aspects of your application to make up for it. Being at 25th to 75th percentile puts you in a competitive class, and above the 75th percentile can put you in a very good place. 

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What SAT Score is Required for Howard University?

The SAT scores required for Howard University admissions is listed below in the table: 

Howard University Colleges that Accept SAT Scores 

At Howard University, several colleges and schools use SAT scores as part of their admissions criteria. Each of these colleges uses SAT scores to assess applicants' readiness for academic challenges, among other factors such as GPA, personal statements, and extracurricular involvement.

• College of Arts and Sciences
• School of Business
• College of Engineering and Architecture
• School of Communications
• College of Medicine (Undergraduate Pre-Med)

Howard University ACT Score Requirements 

When applying to Howard University, the ACT scores play a significant role in the admissions process, but they are just one of many factors considered. While submitting your ACT score is optional, competitive applicants typically have strong results. For students who choose to submit their ACT scores, here's what you can expect:

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Howard University ACT Scores Distribution 

Students who are admitted into Howard University normally have an average ACT score that is around 24. The university is characterized by a rigorous academic standard. It prefers applicants who have performed well in areas tested by the ACT. Keep in mind, while these scores give you a good idea of the academic strength of admitted students, Howard University takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, considering your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation alongside standardized test scores. 

Middle 50% Range for Admitted Students:

• ACT Composite Score: 24
• This means half of admitted students fall within this score range, while the other half scored above or below.

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Howard University GPA Requirements

Howard University typically seeks out students having an unweighted GPA of 3.66. Thai minimum GPA was recorded for the Class of 2025. Academic courses can also play a role in the application process, so excellent grades and a good GPA evidence consistent student excellence across high school.

GPA Ranges for Admitted Students

Howard University considers GPA along with the rigor of courses like AP, honors, and dual enrollment. The middle 50% GPA range is typically between 3.4 and 3.8, with an average of around 3.66 (unweighted). If your GPA is below this range, strong SAT scores or extracurriculars may offset it. GPAs above 3.8 are exceptional and stand out in the admissions process.

Howard University Acceptance Rate

Howard University has a selective nature of about 35% acceptance. In other words, while so many students may apply, the selective institution is admitting only the competitive portion each year.

These factors that the admissions process for Howard takes into consideration include academic performance, GPA, test scores on standardized tests such as ACT/SAT, extracurricular involvement, and personal statements. For this reason, it is crucial to present an all-rounded application that should show capabilities in academics but also in leadership qualities, experiences, and community contribution.

Also, Get to Know What is ACT Superscore?

Howard University Scholarships 

Howard University provides both merit and need-based scholarships for FTIC students. Merit scholarships are SAT/ACT scores and GPA based, while the awarding of need-based scholarships depends on the SAI; FAFSA is used to determine need for domestic students, while ISFAA is used for international students.

The merit scholarship is not something students have to apply for individually. Eligibility for need-based scholarships is established through the Bison Hub portal, and the students will need to accept the offer and sign the HUFS Acceptance Agreement. The awards at HUFS are applicable for eight semesters or till graduation. Only one of the following scholarships is possible for a student:

• HU Presidential Scholarship
• HU Achievers Scholarship
• HU Founders Scholarship
• HU Capstone Scholarship
• HU Leadership Scholarship
• HU Opportunity Scholarship
• HU Access Scholarship

Therefore, it sums up that admissions at Howard University are competitive but achievable. If you meet all the Howard University SAT requirements, you can be part of this reputable institution. Getting to know about what you can expect in the admission process which is the SAT scores, ACT scores, GPA, developing an effective essay, and highlighting your strengths. A well-rounded application with a compelling personal statement, strong recommendations, and meaningful extracurriculars will increase your chances of admission. 

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