Overview
University of Houston is a less selective public four-year institution in Houston, Texas. The school accepts 66.2% of applicants and enrolls 37,175 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 66.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,245
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,160–1,330
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 26
- Total Enrollment
- 37,175
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 operates on rolling admissions, so submit your application early in the fall rather than waiting until deadlines approach. Your application gets reviewed as it arrives, and spots fill up throughout the year.
The Honors College requires a separate application with additional essays and offers smaller classes, priority registration, and research opportunities with faculty. Apply by December 1st if you want consideration for the Honors College and major scholarships. The Honors College looks for students who can handle accelerated coursework and want to participate in undergraduate research from their first year.
Engineering programs dominate the strongest offerings at UH, particularly electrical and industrial engineering. If you're applying to the Cullen College of Engineering, highlight any hands-on technical experience, programming skills, or engineering competitions in your application. The college has strong industry connections in Houston's energy sector, so mention career interests in oil and gas, renewable energy, or petrochemicals if relevant.
The nursing program requires direct admission and fills quickly due to clinical partnerships with the Texas Medical Center. Emphasize healthcare experience, volunteer work in medical settings, and strong science preparation if nursing is your target major.
Campus culture centers around commuter convenience and professional preparation rather than traditional college traditions. Most students work part-time and many live off-campus. You'll fit well here if you prefer focusing on academics and career preparation over campus social life. The student body reflects Houston's diversity, with significant Latino and international populations.
Your essays should connect your goals to Houston's specific opportunities. The city provides internships in energy, healthcare, aerospace, and technology industries. Mention specific companies or organizations where you want to gain experience during college.
Apply to your specific college within the university rather than undeclared if you know your major. Business, engineering, and other competitive programs have separate admission requirements and review processes. Check each college's prerequisites carefully, especially for math and science coursework.
Financial aid applications open in October, well before admission decisions. Complete your FAFSA early since Texas state aid operates on limited funding that runs out during the academic year.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $13,853/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,711
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $22,191
- Students Receiving Aid
- 41%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 64.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $62,377/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 86.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Houston require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
University of Houston is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Submitting test scores may strengthen your application but is not required.
What is the application deadline for University of Houston?
University of Houston has a priority application deadline of December 1 for fall admission. Applications received after this date are reviewed on a space-available basis.
How many credit hours do you need to transfer to University of Houston?
Transfer students need at least 12 college credit hours to apply to University of Houston. Students with fewer than 30 credit hours must also meet freshman admission requirements.
Does University of Houston offer early decision or early action?
University of Houston does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through regular admission with the same December 1 priority deadline.