---
title: Howard University — PickACampus
description: Learn about Howard University in Washington, DC, including its 41% acceptance rate, graduation statistics, tuition costs, and average starting salaries.
url: https://pickacampus.com/college/187
last_updated: 2026-06-03
---

# Howard University

Howard University is a private institution located in an urban setting in Washington, DC, with a total enrollment of 10,108 students. The university maintains a 41% acceptance rate and a 13:1 student-faculty ratio, leading to a 70% graduation rate. Students enter the workforce with a median starting salary of $47,379 and a median student debt of $24,500.

## Overview
- Location: Washington, DC
- Type: Private
- Setting: urban
- Total enrollment: 10,108

## Admissions
- Acceptance rate: 41%
- Average SAT: 1,213
- Average ACT: 24
- Average GPA: 3.58

## Cost
- In-state tuition: $35,810
- Out-of-state tuition: $35,810
- Room and board: $17,322
- Fees: $1,498
- Average financial aid: $16,000
- Average student debt at graduation: $24,500

## Outcomes
- 6-year graduation rate: 70%
- 4-year graduation rate: 60%
- Freshman retention: 90%
- Employment rate: 80%
- Average starting salary: $47,379

## Academics
- Student-faculty ratio: 13:1
- Average class size: 20
- Classes under 20 students: 48%

## Notable
["Howard University is one of the nation's leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).","It boasts the largest percentage of African American Ph.D. recipients in the country.","The university's motto is 'Veritas et Utilitas,' meaning 'Truth and Service.'","Howard University has produced more Black Ph.D.s than any other university in the world."]

## Traditions
[{"name":"Howard Homecoming","description":"A week-long celebration of alumni, students, and the university's legacy."},{"name":"Yardfest","description":"An annual outdoor concert featuring major musical artists during Homecoming."},{"name":"Probate","description":"Public unveiling of new members of Greek letter organizations."},{"name":"The Bison","description":"The university's mascot, symbolizing strength and resilience."}]

## Notable alumni
[{"name":"Chadwick Boseman","description":"Acclaimed actor, known for Black Panther."},{"name":"Kamala Harris","description":"Current Vice President of the United States."},{"name":"Toni Morrison","description":"Nobel Prize-winning author of Beloved."},{"name":"Thurgood Marshall","description":"First African American Supreme Court Justice."},{"name":"Phylicia Rashad","description":"Emmy-winning actress, known for The Cosby Show."}]

## Common questions

Q: What is Howard University's acceptance rate?
A: Howard University's acceptance rate is 41%.

Q: How much does Howard University cost?
A: Tuition at Howard University is $35,810 per year, before room and board and fees.

Q: Where is Howard University located?
A: Howard University is located in Washington, DC.

Q: What SAT score do you need for Howard University?
A: The average SAT score at Howard University is 1,213.

Q: What is the graduation rate at Howard University?
A: Howard University has a 6-year graduation rate of 70%.

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