How are HBCUs ranked and what should I consider?

I've been looking at rankings for HBCUs and wondering how much weight I should give them. What factors go into these rankings, and how should they influence my decision on where to apply?

Rankings for Historically Back Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) typically take a variety of metrics into account just as they do in ranking non-HBCU institutions. These can include factors like acceptance rates, retention rates, graduation rates, student-to-faculty ratios, financial resources, and alumni giving. However, like with any school's rankings, it's important not to put too much weight on them when making your decision on where to apply.

Here's why: rankings cannot measure the entirety of a college experience or how well a specific institution might align with a student's personal characteristics, needs, goals, and aspirations. Rankings can provide a broad overview of how an institution compares to others in certain aspects, but there's a lot they don't cover.

Instead, I'd encourage you to look deeper into the individual institutions and their offerings. For instance, consider the strength of their departments and programs in areas you're interested in, the resources available to students, the opportunities for internships or cooperative education, and the institution’s location and campus culture. Look at the outcomes for graduates – do they get good jobs or get accepted into top graduate schools? Consider the level of support for undergraduates, such as academic advising, counseling, and other student services.

Discussing with current students or alumni can grant valuable insights into the campus culture and student experience that statistics simply can't capture. Participating in a college visit or virtual tour can also give you a better feel for the campus community.

Additionally, HBCUs often have strong cultural and historical significance, so you might want to consider how much that experience adds value for you. Many HBCUs offer a strong sense of community and pride, and the opportunity to learn and grow in an environment that centers and uplifts the Black experience.

To sum up, while HBCU rankings can provide a useful starting point in your college search, your decision should be influenced by a variety of factors including your personal needs and goals, academic interests, financial considerations, and what sort of campus culture and experience best aligns with your personality and aspirations.