Howard admission requirements - what's the scoop?

Yo! I've heard a lot of good things about Howard, but I'm having a tricky time figuring out their admission requirements. Can anyone fill me in? What do they look for in an applicant? GPAs, extra curriculars, community services, anything?

Absolutely, let's talk Howard University. When considering your admission, Howard looks at many factors in a student's application.

First, academic performance is an essential criterion. The middle 50% range of accepted students in the 2024-2025 cycle had GPAs between 3.47 and 3.98 on a 4.0 scale, showcasing strong academic performance.

Secondly, Howard considers the course rigor, i.e., the types and level of classes you've taken in high school. They appreciate students who have challenged themselves with harder courses such as APs and Honors, as it demonstrates academic dedication.

As for standardized test scores, Howard is test-optional for fall 2025, meaning you don't need to submit your SAT or ACT scores if you prefer not to. However, if you're confident in your test scores and believe they will strengthen your application, feel free to submit them.

Extracurricular activities are another crucial aspect of your application. Howard, like many other universities, uses the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars. They're going to look for some depth and leadership in your activities: it's less about how many activities you have and more about the level of involvement and achievement in those activities.

Community service is a plus, as it shows commitment to bettering your community. However, remember that consistent involvement in an activity — whether it is music, sports, academic clubs, or community service — where you made a significant impact would often be valued more than just a large number of service hours.

Don't forget about your essays! Your essay is your chance to share more about yourself, your values, and your fit with Howard's mission and culture. Avoid cliches, and instead focus on showing who you are and why Howard is the right university for you.

Furthermore, although not required, letters of recommendation can boost your application. They give the admissions committee another perspective of you as a student and individual.

Lastly, Howard offers an interview process, and while it's optional, it's recommended as it can demonstrate your interest in the university and provides an opportunity for you to better express your fit with the university.

I hope this gives a clear picture! Remember, each application is unique, and these are general things Howard University looks for in an applicant.