Specifics about Howard University's GPA requirement?

Hi peeps! I really have my heart set on Howard University. But, I'm not sure if my GPA is competitive enough. Is there a minimum GPA required for admission by Howard University? How stringent are they about it?

Howard University does not officially disclose a minimum GPA, however, being a competitive school, the average GPA of incoming freshmen is around a 3.65. This signals that they value strong academic performance. While stronger GPAs tend to increase your chance of getting accepted, a relatively lower GPA doesn't completely disqualify your application!

The admission decision isn't solely about GPA. It also includes considerations like extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendation, test scores, personal statements, and other factors. If your GPA is slightly lower, you might want to focus on enhancing other aspects of your application. For instance, if you have taken challenging courses that might have lowered your GPA, but demonstrate your academic rigour, make sure that comes across. Similarly, if you have exceptional Tier 1 or Tier 2 extracurriculars, they could offset lower numbers.

Also, if you see a trend of GPA improvement over your high school career, it's a positive signal. If there's a good reason behind lower GPA (like a family event or personal issues), you could potentially discuss it in your personal statement to provide context.

Remember to start prepping your application and essays as early as possible so you can show your passion, dedication, and fit for Howard University! The bottom line is: while GPA is important, it doesn't define your entire application. Maintain a balanced application and showcase your strengths outside of academics as well.