Which is better - Howard University or Harvard University?

Harvard University has an acceptance rate of around 3.5% which shows that the university is selective for international admissions. Comparatively, Howard University has an acceptance rate of around 35% which means that it is moderately selective for admissions. However, both universities have different student environment. Harvard offers many extracurricular activities, from drama clubs to intramural sports. Howard University has some courses in Social Sciences, Health Sciences, and Communications, whereas, Harvard University is known for its academic excellence in Law, Business, and the Humanities.

What does Howard University look for in a student?

Howard University acceptance rate is 35% which shows that the admissions at the university is very competitive for international students. It is known for academic excellence through a highly selective admission process. So, some of the things that Howard University look for in the applicants are: Who demonstrates strong personal motivation along with backgrounds of consistent academic growth and achievement The minimum GPA for the class profile of 2025 is 3.66

Does Howard University accept IELTS?

Yes, IELTS is accepted by Howard University. TOEFL scores can also be submitted. The minimum scores required in both of these English language proficiency tests for admission to graduate courses are given below: Tests Minimum Score for UG Courses Minimum Score for Graduate Courses TOEFL iBT 79 90 IELTS 6.5 6.5

How much is the application fee for a Howard University MBA student?

Howard University application fee for its MBA course is USD 123 (Around INR 10.6k). To apply to the MBA course, the applicants are required to submit the following: Online application Official academic transcripts GMAT / GRE score IELTS / TOEFL score Personal statement 2 Letters of Recommendation Current resume

Is Howard University public or private?

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university. It comprises 14 schools and colleges. The university offers 140+ programs leading to UG, Graduate, and Professional degrees. The university is known to be a leader in STEM fields. Furthermore, the university also boasts nationally ranked courses in Social Work, Business, and Communications, etc. There are more than 12,000 students at the university.

How to get admission to Howard University from India?

Howard University acceptance rate is around 35%. The university promotes academic excellence through a highly selective admission process and students who get admitted to the university showcase strong personal motivation along with backgrounds of consistent academic growth and achievement. As an international student, here are some of Howard University requirements that have to be met: The applicants must have passed high school. Academic records from Class 9 - 12 have to be submitted Recommended coursework for students SAT/ACT scores (optional) English language proficiency test score Two letters of recommendation Application essays Graduate applicants have to submit an academic record that show the record of a 4-year equivalent degree. English language proficiency test score have to be submitted too. Standardized test scores may also be required.

Is Howard a top college?

Howard University leaped by 29 spots into the category of Top 100 Universities in the US in 2025 according to a top ranking publisher and it ranks at #86 in the National Universities category. In 2024 this university ranked at #115 and this rank further cements the institution's for groundbreaking research, through leadership, innovative academic programs and faculty who push the boundaries of knowledge to create discoveries that are having a transformative effect in Science, Technology, Medical, Business, Education and Humanities fields among others.

What is Howard University known for?

Howard University is known for its STEM programs. The National Science foundation has ranked this university as the top producer of African-American Undergraduates who earn Science and Engineering Doctoral degrees. Also, this university boasts nationally-ranked programs in Social Work, Business and Communications. Howard University School of Social Work ranks at #12 in U.S. News and World Report in the 204 rankings. This makes this university ranks among the Top 5% of Best Schools of Social Work nationwide.

Which famous people graduated from Howard University?

Howard University has many famous personalities who have studied there. A few of these names are Kamala Harris, Sean Combs, Chadwick Boseman, Taraji. P Henson, Toni Morrison, etc. The designations of these famous celebrities are given below: Names Profession Kamala Harris Politician and Attorney Chadwick Boseman Actor Sean Combs Rapper, Producer, Record Producer, etc. Taraji. P Henson Actress Lazaro Alonso Actor Debbie Allen Actress, Dancer, Singer, etc. Toni Morrison Novelist Thurgood Marshall Civil Rights Lawyer and Jurist

Which famous personalities have graduated from Howard University?

A few of the famous personalities who have studied at Howard University are: Kamala Harris: 49th Vice President of the U.S. Toni Morrison: Famous Author Shirley Franklin: Former Mayor of Atlanta Chadwick Boseman: Actor Taraji P. Henson: Actress Thurgood Marshall: Civil Rights Lawyer and Jurist Sekhar Kammula: Indian Film Director, Screenwriter, and Producer

Can I work part-time as an international student at Howard University?

Yes international students of Howard University are eligible to work on campus and off campus also for on campus employment Howard University students can work up to 20 hours per week maximum however when classes are out of session international students may work up to a maximum of 40 hours per week.

Who are the top recruiters of Howard University?

The top recruiters of Howard University alumni are: Deloitte Amazon Google Microsoft U.S. Department of the State Apple Goldman Sachs JP MorganChase

How much is Howard University application fee?

Given below is the application fee: UG applicants: USD 45 (Around INR 3,700) PG applicants: USD 75 (Around INR 6,200)

How to get admission to Howard University from India?

Indian applicants who want to take admission to Howard University must meet the below-given entry requirements: UG: The applicants must have passed high school. Make sure to meet the recommended coursework such as 4 years of English, 3 years of Mathematics, 2 years of Social Science, 2 years of Science, and 2 years of foreign language PG: The applicants are also required to have a 4-year bachelor’s degree English Language Proficiency Tests: TOEFL / IELTS scores are accepted from international students

Does Howard's MBA require GMAT?

Yes, to get admission to Howard University MBA course, the applicants require GMAT / GRE score. To apply for this course, the applicants are required to have a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Two years of work experience is also required. GPA of 3.0 is required for bachelor’s degree. Documents that have to be submitted are: Academic transcripts English language proficiency score Personal Statement Two Letters of Recommendation Current Resume

Does Howard University give financial aid to international students?

Howard University offers financial aid to international students through the International Student Financial Aid Application which includes the following: The applicant must apply through the questionnaire that includes age, degree type, legal dependents, marital status, and parents status. The student will receive an aid offer package or scheduled financial aid. The application should have a file that includes their signature, Income or Wages and Tax Data

How much does it cost to attend Howard University for 1 year?

Howard University tuition for 4 years is USD 37,996 (Around INR 32.4 lakh). For a UG course, the estimated total cost for studying at Howard University for the academic year 2025-26 is: Particulars Expenses for UG courses Housing USD 12,380 (Around INR 10.5 L) Food USD 6,602 (Around INR 5.6 L) Books & supplies USD 1,220 (Around INR 1 L) Transportation USD 1,154 (Around INR 98k) Personal / Misc. expenses USD 2,494 (Around INR 2.13 L)

How much is tuition at Howard LLM?

According to the cost of attendance for Howard University LLM course, the tuition is USD 39,780 for 2025-26 (Around INR 34 lakh) and the university mandatory fee is USD 1,632. Other indirect fees are given below: Particulars Expenses Housing USD 19,494 (Around INR 16.6 L) Food USD 6,700 (Around INR 5.7 L) Transportation USD 3,355 (Around INR 2.8 L) Personal / Misc. expenses USD 3,986 (Around INR 3.4 L) Books / Supplies USD 1,900 (Around INR 1.62 L)

What are the English requirements for international student to get admission at Howard University?

International students whose native language is not English must meet the Howard University English requirements to get admission to UG and PG programs. The table below includes the list of English language tests and their minimum score for UG and PG admissions: English Language Test UG Score PG Score IELTS an overall score of a 6.5 an overall score of a 6.5 TOEFL iBT an overall score of a 79 an overall score of a 90 Also read: Study in the USA Without IELTS and TOEFL

What programs is Howard University known for?

Howard is a leader in STEM fields. The university boasts nationally ranked programs in Business, Communications and Social Work. Popular majors at Howard University are: Business and Management Studies Health and Medicine Engineering Psychology Social Sciences Visual and Performing Arts Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services Biological and Biomedical Sciences

What are the courses offered at Howard University?

More than 130 courses are offered by Howard University. The courses are offered at the Undergraduate and Graduate levels. A few Professional programs are also offered. Over 50 UG programs and more than 100 PG programs are offered. Study fields at the undergraduate level are Arts, Sciences, Humanities, Engineering, Business, etc. Study areas at the PG level are Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Sociology, etc. The university has 13 schools and colleges namely: Arts & Sciences Business Dentistry Communications Education Engineering Divinity Architecture & Computer Sciences Law Graduate School Medicine Nursing & Allied Health Sciences Pharmacy and Social Work

Does Howard have a good MBA program?

Fortune names Howard University among the Best MBA programs for 2025. It has been ranked at No. 44 in Fortune’s Best MBA programs for 2025. This programme of Howard is well known for its ability to prepare students for leadership careers in Business, Government, and Non-Profit Organizations. Howard’s MBA course is accredited by the AACSB. The reasons to pursue this course are: Competitive salary after graduation Student-to-faculty access: 3:1 ratio Concentration variety Classroom diversity Scholarship & Graduate Assistantship Opportunities

What rank is Howard University in the world?

Howard University ranking is #1093 in the Best Global Universities category by a top-ranking publisher in the 2025 rankings. In other world rankings, Howard ranks at #1001-1200 position in 2025 and 2026. Looking at the world rankings, it can be said that Howard ranks at Top 1500 Universities in the world.

What is Howard University USA ranking?

According to a top-ranking publisher, Howard University USA specific rankings is #86 in 2025 and #115 in the 2024 edition of Best Colleges (National Universities). In 2023, the university was placed at #89 position. Though the ranking of the university has declined, the university still ranks among the Top 100 Universities in the US in 2025. In the context of the Global Universities ranking, the university is placed at 1005 in the Best Global University category in 2024.

How many student organizations are at Howard University?

There are more than 200 registered student organizations at Howard University. The type of student organizations at the university are Geography Clubs, International Clubs, Sports Clubs, Sports & Department Clubs, etc. International clubs at the university provide a social outlet for international students while providing a means to bring US and international students together. Generally, these organizations have an educational function by presenting programs on international topics and seminars concerning the culture of other countries.

What is campus life like at Howard University?

A few of the features of Howard University campus life include the 200+ clubs, 21 Division I athletic teams, fulfilling service opportunities, etc. Some of the student organizations at the university are Geography Clubs, Sports Clubs, International Clubs, etc. International clubs, in particular, provide a social outlet for international students while providing a means to bring U.S. and international students together. These organizations have an educational function by presenting programs on international topics and seminars about the culture of other countries. Since, Howard Uni is located in Washington, DC, students have endless opportunities to experience a wide range of variety of cultural events and activities. While studying at Howard, students can visit the plethora of museums such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Gallery of Art, and National Museum of African Art.

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Howard University: Fees, Rankings, Courses, Reviews

Q: Is it difficult to get into Howard University?

Howard University acceptance rate is 35% for first-year applicants. Looking at this acceptance rate, it can be said that the university is quite selective at the time of admission. The unofficial sources claim that the university’s acceptance rate is 53%. So, to have the upper hand of taking admission at this university, the applicants must aim to have a strong academic profile. Also, they must meet the entry requirements and application requirements. General entry requirements are having passed High school for admission to UG courses and having a bachelor’s degree for admission to PG courses.

Q: Why is Howard University so famous?

Howard University ranks among the the highest producers of the nation's Black professionals in Dentistry, Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering, Architecture, Nursing, Social Work, etc. Also, note that Howard University is a leader in STEM fields. Also, the university's College of Medicine is internationally regarded for its legacy of training students to become competent and compassionate physicians who provide healthcare in medically underserved communities at home and abroad. Furthermore, Howard is the only historically black college (HBCUs) to be ranked in Top 100 as per a top-ranking publisher 2025 ranking. In the 2025 National Universities ranking, Howard ranks at #86.

Washington, Washington, USA

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Private University
258 acre campus
Estd. 1867

Last updated on 10 Oct '25

Howard University
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Howard University application deadline is Nov 1, 2025 (Early Action).

Howard University Overview

Table of content

About Howard University
Howard University Rankings 2025
Howard University Programs
Howard University Admissions 2025
Howard University Scholarships
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About Howard University

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Things to Know

Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private research university located in Northern DC. The main campus of the university is home to 256 acres of land across the District of Columbia and Maryland. Howard Uni is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Howard University is known for its programs in STEM fields, Business, and Communication Sciences. Also, the university is the leading producer of African American students entering medical schools in the U.S. Howard University ranking in the National Universities category is #86 in the 2025 rankings by a top-ranking publisher. Howard University acceptance rate is around 35%. Over 130 courses are offered by this university at the UG and PG levels.

Things to Know about Howard University

A few of the important facts of Howard University are given below:

Particulars	Stats
Acceptance Rate	35%
Type of university	Privately federally chartered historically Black Research University
Founder	General Oliver O. Howard
Campus size	256 acres
Tuition per year	Around INR 27.2 L – INR 63 L
Popular courses	MBA, MSC in CS
Course offerings	130+
Total students	14,000+ (CDS: 2024-25)
Average SAT score	1184
Average ACT score	24
Minimum GPA	3.66
Sporting affiliation	NCAA Division I FCS
Mascot	Bison

History

Howard University was established by Civil War hero General Oliver O. Howard. It has grown from a single-frame building and evolved to more than 89 acres. Since 1974, the university has expanded to include a 22-acre School of Law West Campus, a 22-acre School of Divinity East Campus, and another three-fifths of an acre facility in Northeast Washington. In 1975, Howard University Hospital opened. Also, in 1975, Jeanne Sinkford became the first female dean of any American Dental School when she was appointed as the Dean of Howard University’s School of Dentistry.

Check out the below videos of Howard University for more Information:

Year of establishment

1867

University website

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Student website

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Total foreign students

668

Campus size

258 acres

No. of campus

Endowment value

USD 647 million

Scholarships granted

8131

Scholarship amount granted

USD 168 million

Application fees

USD 45

English proficiency test

Optional

Accepted exams

SAT/ACT accepted

Optional

Total faculty

1151

Faculty/Student ratio

Total criminal offences

Commonly asked questions
On Highlights

Q: As an Indian, how can I get admission to Howard University?

Howard University admission requirements for international students are given below:

Undergraduate: To pursue the undergraduate courses of Howard University, the applicants are required to have completed high school
Graduate: The applicants must have a superior academic record and the equivalent of Howard University’s 4-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited institute

Also, international applicants are also required to submit English language proficiency score.

Also Check: Requirements to Study in USA for International Students

Q: What GPA is required for admission to Howard College?

The table below includes the GPA range with number of students enrolled in the fall of 2023:

High School GPA	Number of Students
3.75-4.0	1,192
3.50-3.74	644
3.25-3.49	315
3.00-3.24	80
2.00-2.99	30
Grand Total	2,261

Also read: How to Convert Percentage to GPA?

Q: Is it difficult to get into Howard University?

Howard University acceptance rate is 35% for first-year applicants. Looking at this acceptance rate, it can be said that the university is quite selective at the time of admission. The unofficial sources claim that the university’s acceptance rate is 53%. So, to have the upper hand of taking admission at this university, the applicants must aim to have a strong academic profile. Also, they must meet the entry requirements and application requirements. General entry requirements are having passed High school for admission to UG courses and having a bachelor’s degree for admission to PG courses.

Howard University Programs

Howard University offers more than 130 programs leading to UG, PG, and Professional degrees. There are 14 schools and colleges of Howard University namely Arts & Sciences, Communications, Business, Dentistry, Engineering & Architecture, Fine Arts, Social Work, Pharmacy, etc. The College of Medicine is internationally regarded for its legacy of training students to become compassionate and competent physicians who provide healthcare.

The popular Howard University courses among Indian students are MBA, MSc in CS, MSc in Medical Physics, etc. A few of the popular majors are Health Professions and Related Programs; Social Sciences; Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, etc. As per the details available on the web, the alumni of Howard University studied courses like Business Administration and Management, Psychology, Marketing, Finance, etc.

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Howard University Admissions 2025

For Howard University admissions, UG applicants can submit the application via Common App. Whereas, for graduate courses, the applicants can apply by accessing the direct course application links. As per the Class Profile of 2025 (first-year applicants), Howard University acceptance rate is 35%.

Application Deadlines

Howard University application deadlines for international UG applicants are given below:

Particulars	UG Application Deadlines
Early Action	1 Nov, 2025
Early Decision	1 Nov, 2025
Regular Decision	1 Feb, 2026

Requirements for Indian Students

Howard University admission requirements are given below:

UG: The applicants should have passed high school. Make sure to meet the recommended coursework of 4 years of English, 3 years of Mathematics, 2 years of Social Science, 2 years of Science, and 2 years of a foreign language
PG: A 4-year bachelor’s degree
English Proficiency Tests: TOEFL / IELTS scores are accepted for admission to Howard

Application Fee

For the UG applicants, Howard University application fee is USD 45 (Around INR 3,700). For the graduate courses, the application fee is INR 6,200.

Eligibility

The entry requirements for Howard University admission vary as per the courses, however, the documents required to apply are:

Academic transcripts
LORs for UG
Standardized test record (as applicable)
English proficiency proof
Any program-specific document
Bank statement

Application fees :No Fees
Type of deadline :Depends on course

Documents

Type of documents	Applicable for
SOP	Needed for few courses
LOR	Needed for few courses
Essays	Needed for few courses
CV	Needed for few courses
Additional documents	Required

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Howard University
Student profile

Quick university statsInsights on student demographics, enrolment, and academic success

UG Race

Black

64%

Others

24%

Hispanic

Asian

American

UG Student residence

Out of state

92%

Foreign

UG Age distribution

24 and under

98%

25 and over

UG Number of Applicant

19188

Overall Graduation Rate

UG Enrollment

9804

PG Enrollment

3076

Howard University
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Education in USA

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3.38LIndian students in USA in 2024

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12 monthsPost-study work permit

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Washington D.C.Capital

347.28M (2025)Total population

2%Economic growth rate in 2025

EnglishPrimary language

Weather

October

Popular LocationsMinMax

Boston817

New York1018

Chicago1017

Los Angeles1626

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