Overview
University of Houston-Clear Lake is a less selective public four-year institution in Houston, Texas. The school accepts 69.4% of applicants and enrolls 6,082 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 69.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,082
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 990–1,173
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 6,082
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
University of Houston-Clear Lake operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall to secure your spot and maximize financial aid opportunities. The school particularly values applicants who can articulate clear career goals and connect them to specific UHCL programs.
Your personal statement should highlight how you'll use UHCL's location in the NASA Johnson Space Center area. The university maintains strong industry partnerships with aerospace companies, energy firms, and healthcare systems throughout the Greater Houston region. Mention specific internship opportunities or research projects that appeal to you, especially if you're interested in computer engineering or environmental science programs.
UHCL functions as an upper-level institution, meaning most students transfer in as juniors. If you're applying as a freshman, you'll be part of a smaller cohort in the Freshman and Sophomore Program. This creates tight-knit class sizes but means fewer traditional campus activities compared to other universities.
The Honors College requires a separate application with additional essays and higher academic standards. Apply if your stats exceed the general admission requirements, as honors students receive priority registration and smaller class sizes.
Campus culture centers around working professionals and commuter students. Many students attend part-time while maintaining full-time jobs in Houston's energy or healthcare sectors. Evening and weekend classes accommodate working schedules, but don't expect a traditional college social scene with Greek life or major athletics.
Your application should emphasize professional goals over extracurricular achievements. UHCL admissions officers want to see how your degree connects to Houston's job market. Research faculty members in your intended major and mention specific professors whose work interests you.
Submit transcripts from all previously attended institutions, even if you only took a single course. UHCL's transfer-friendly policies mean they'll evaluate everything for potential credit. The application requires minimal supplemental materials, making it straightforward but leaving little room to stand out beyond your academic record and personal statement.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $11,056/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $7,746
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,330
- Students Receiving Aid
- 44%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 50.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $59,004/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Houston-Clear Lake require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of Houston-Clear Lake has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for University of Houston-Clear Lake?
University of Houston-Clear Lake has rolling admissions with priority deadlines of July 1 for fall semester and December 1 for spring semester. Applications are accepted until classes begin, but earlier submission improves chances for housing and financial aid.
Can I transfer to University of Houston-Clear Lake as a junior-level student?
University of Houston-Clear Lake primarily serves upper-level undergraduate and graduate students. Transfer students must have completed at least 54 credit hours from an accredited institution to be eligible for most bachelor's degree programs.
What GPA do I need to get into University of Houston-Clear Lake?
University of Houston-Clear Lake requires a minimum 2.25 GPA for transfer admission. Students with higher GPAs have better chances for competitive programs like engineering and business.