Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a long and proud history of providing a quality education to African American students. But many HBCUs have high barriers to entry in the form of low acceptance rates and stringent admissions standards. The most prestigious HBCUs, such as Howard University, admit less than half their applicants.
Other HBCUs, however, are not so difficult to get into. HBCUs with high acceptance rates include Miles College, Selma University, Langston University, and Morris University. All of these schools accept 100% of their applicants. Several additional HBCUs have acceptance rates of 90% or higher.
The following HBCUs have acceptance rates between 90 and 100% but still provide a high-quality education and open the door to an array of career opportunities.
Miles College
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Location: Fairfield, AL
- Undergraduate enrollment: 1,500
- Graduation rate: 23%
- Freshman retention rate: 54%
Miles College, located in Fairfield, Alabama, is a small liberal arts college affiliated with the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church. It is known for its strong academic programs and its quaint campus about 10 miles southwest of downtown Birmingman. It offers more than 30 majors and minors.
At first glance, the low graduation rate and freshman retention rate appear to be a concern. This is a theme you will notice with many of the schools on this list. Colleges with high acceptance rates often have high attrition, particularly the first year. They give students a chance who might not otherwise be accepted to a four-year college, and some, unfortunately, don’t make it.
Selma University
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Location: Selma, AL
- Undergraduate enrollment: 550
- Graduation rate: 24%
- Freshman retention rate: 33%
Selma University is a HBCU located in Selma, Alabama, the site of the famous civil rights march in 1965. It was founded in 1878 as the Selma University Institute. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), Selma offers five degree programs, all centered on religion and theology:
- Theology (A.A.)
- Theology and Christian Education (B.A.)
- Bible and Pastoral Ministry (B.A.)
- Bible and Christian Education (M.A.)
- Bible and Pastoral Ministry (B.A.)
Langston University
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Location: Langston, OK
- Undergraduate enrollment: 1,900
- Graduation rate: 32%
- Freshman retention rate: 51%
Langston University is located in Langston, Oklahoma. The school was founded in 1897 and is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It’s also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Langston offers more than 20 bachelor’s degree programs along with six associate’s programs, four master’s programs, and even a doctorate in physical therapy.
Morris College
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Location: Sumter, SC
- Undergraduate enrollment: 600
- Graduation rate: 30%
- Freshman retention rate: 43%
Morris College is located in Sumter, South Carolina but attracts students from all over the United States, making for a culturally diverse campus community. The college offers a variety of academic programs spread across five academic divisions:
- General studies
- Business administration
- Education
- Religion, humanities, and social sciences
- Natural sciences and mathematics
There are also many opportunities for students to get involved on campus, including a variety of clubs and student organizations, and a vibrant student center featuring pool tables, a lounge, and a snack bar.
Bethune-Cookman University
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Location: Daytona Beach, FL
- Undergraduate enrollment: 3,700
- Graduation rate: 33%
- Freshman retention rate: 65%
Bethune-Cookman University is located in Daytona Beach, Florida. It’s a great fit if you want to enjoy the sun and the beach all year round. The school was founded in 1904 by Mary McLeod Bethune, who later became a member of President Franklin Roosevelt’s famous “Black Cabinet” and the first Black woman to lead a federal agency. Bethune-Cookman offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines, including:
- Arts and humanities
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Science, engineering, and mathematics
- Nursing and health sciences
Grambling State University
- Acceptance rate: 97%
- Location: Grambling, LA
- Undergraduate enrollment: 5,000
- Graduation rate: 37%
- Freshman retention rate: 54%
Grambling State University is located in Grambling, Louisiana. The university was founded in 1901 and houses the Eddie G. Robinson Museum. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in more than 20 disciplines. The university is accredited by the SACSCOC and is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It is known for sending a high percentage of graduates to advanced degree programs, including law school, doctoral programs, and other professional programs such as physician’s assistant, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.
Virginia State University
- Acceptance rate: 96%
- Location: Petersburg, VA
- Undergraduate enrollment: 4,700
- Graduation rate: 38%
- Freshman retention rate: 66%
Virginia State University, located in Petersburg, Virginia, is one of the larger schools on our list, with nearly 5,000 undergraduate students. The school also has one of the largest selections of degree programs, with more than 50 majors offered. Virginia State has a diverse student body and strong athletic programs that help foster school spirit and camaraderie among the students.
West Virginia State University
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Location: Institute, WV
- Undergraduate enrollment: 3,800
- Graduation rate: 53%
- Freshman retention rate: 55%
West Virginia State University is located in Institute, West Virginia, a suburb of Charleston, the state capital. The university offers seven graduate programs and more than 20 undergraduate programs.
WVSU has a strong focus on STEM education and research, featuring programs such as computer science and biotechnology. Its graduates are highly sought after by employers. The campus is small and intimate, and the community is supportive.
Students can get involved in a variety of extracurricular activities, including athletics, music ensembles, student government, and more.
Jackson State University
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Location: Jackson, MS
- Undergraduate enrollment: 5,200
- Graduation rate: 45%
- Freshman retention rate: 53%
Jackson State University is located in Jackson, Mississippi. The school was founded in 1877 and is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its six academic colleges:
- Business
- Science, technology, and engineering
- Lifelong learning
- Public service
- Public health
- Liberal arts
The university is accredited by the SACSCOC. It is also a football powerhouse among HBCUs, and the team is currently coached by “Coach Prime” — Hall of Fame NFL cornerback Deion Sanders.
How to Get Into a Top HBCU
HBCUs offer students a unique and challenging academic experience in a positive, supportive environment. If you’re interested in attending one of these schools, here are a few tips to help you get started.
- Do your research. Find an HBCU that fits your academic interests and goals. Each school has its own strengths and weaknesses, so make sure a school has what you need to succeed before making a decision.
- Understand the admissions requirements. Each HBCU has its own process, and some are more selective than others. This list features schools that accept most or all of their applicants. You might decide to apply to several of them but also shoot for a more selective institution such as Howard or Morehouse.
- Write a dynamic essay. This is your chance to show these schools something unique about you that your high school transcript and test scores can’t convey.
- Visit campus. Many HBCUs prioritize demonstrated interest in the application process. They want to admit students who are “all in” on the school, not ones who just applied on the fly. The best way to show interest is to show your face on campus.
What Schools Are Good Alternatives to HBCUs?
There are a number of schools you can attend if you’re looking for an alternative to HBCUs. Focus on schools with diverse student bodies, highly rated academics, and plenty of opportunities to get involved on campus.
Large state schools — particularly flagship campuses — are good options because they usually have something for everyone, and their student bodies are diverse. These schools also tend to have strong alumni networks and lots of job connections.
What Is Campus Life Like at an HBCU?
Campus life at an HBCU can be a unique and rewarding experience. You can expect to find a close-knit community, where everyone knows each other — or at least greets each other in passing — and is supportive.
HBCUs often have many campus events and activities to get involved in, and you’ll have the opportunity to network with professionals. Additionally, HBCUs often have strong and highly loyal alumni networks that can help you launch your career after graduation. HBCUs grads love to help out other HBCU grads.
What if I Don’t Get Into Any Schools?
First of all, this shouldn’t be a problem as long as you apply to several schools on the list above. Some of them have 100% acceptance rates. If you have a high school diploma, you’re in.
But what happens if none of the colleges you choose to apply to accept you? First, don’t fret. You can still graduate with a college degree in four years. Here are your options:
- Start at a community college. Most have open enrollment policies. All you need is a high school diploma. You can then transfer to a four-year university after one or two years.
- Find a four-year college still accepting applications into the summer. This list is updated daily, and many of the schools on it have high acceptance rates or open admissions policies.
- Attend a trade school or vocational program. They are often far cheaper than college. Some of them, such as electrician and plumber apprenticeships, even pay you to learn. The careers they lead to are in high demand and often can’t be outsourced or automated.
The Bottom Line on HBCUs with High Acceptance Rates
HBCUs can be selective, but as this list demonstrates, many have high acceptance rates while still offering a quality education. If you want to attend an HBCU and ensure you’re granted admission, these are the schools for you.
