The University of Houston (UH), founded in 1927, is a major public research university and the flagship institution of the University of Houston System. Ranked #133 in National Universities by U.S. News, UH is a Tier One research institution known for its business, engineering, and law programs. Its sprawling 667-acre urban campus in Houston, Texas, features state-of-the-art facilities like the Fertitta Center and the Energy Research Park. With a diverse student body and strong ties to the city's industries, UH offers extensive internship and career opportunities. The university is also home to renowned programs like the Bauer College of Business and the Cullen College of Engineering.
UH's dynamic campus life includes over 500 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, and cultural hubs like the Blaffer Art Museum. The university's location in the nation's fourth-largest city provides students with access to Fortune 500 companies, NASA's Johnson Space Center, and a vibrant arts scene. UH is also recognized for its affordability and commitment to student success, with initiatives like the Cougar Promise financial aid program. Its research expenditures exceed $200 million annually, fostering innovation in fields like superconductivity and health sciences.
University of Houston Acceptance Rate
University of Houston (UH) is somewhat selective. With an acceptance rate of 69.53%, the school is accessible to students who demonstrate foundational academic competency and a readiness for college-level work.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
University of Houston Admission Requirements
UH GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at UH is 3.46. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A’s and B’s is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
If your GPA is between 3.16 and 3.46, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
UH GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at UH utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.46, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.46 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.26 – 3.45 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.06 – 3.25 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.05 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At UH, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
University of Houston (UH) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
University of Houston Average SAT Score: 1229
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Houston is 1229 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to well to score 1229 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1330 SAT or 28 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Houston allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1150, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to UH. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 620 | 570 | 670 |
| SAT Reading | 620 | 580 | 660 |
| SAT Composite | 1229 | 1150 | 1330 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1150 then you are below most of the admitted students at UH and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1330 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1250
Can I get into University of Houston (UH) with a 1350 SAT?
With a 1350 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Houston (UH) are good but the admission staff at UH tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
University of Houston (UH) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at UH is 26.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes University of Houston Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 26 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 24 | 20 | 27 |
| ACT English | 26 | 22 | 29 |
| ACT Composite | 26 | 23 | 28 |
Can I get into University of Houston with a 28 ACT?
With a 28 ACT Score, your chances of admission at University of Houston are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 26.UH Profile
Name: University of Houston (UH)
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
How much does a degree from UH Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Houston is USD: 25056. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Houston is USD: 13853
How can I get a scholarship?
40.89% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 31.9 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UH and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of Houston, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UH as your choice in the form.
How much a UH Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 62377. An average UH graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Houston. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham-Southern College, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| Samford University | Samford University, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| Harding University | Harding University, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Ouachita Baptist University, AR | 1212 | 25 |
| Dominican University of California | Dominican University of California, CA | 1194 | 26 |
| Eastern Connecticut State University | Eastern Connecticut State University, CT | 1200 | NA |
| University of Hartford | University of Hartford, CT | 1207 | 29 |
| University of New Haven | University of New Haven, CT | 1190 | NA |
| Quinnipiac University | Quinnipiac University, CT | 1212 | 27 |
| Howard University | Howard University, DC | 1205 | 25 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Houston. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mobile | University of Mobile, AL | 1220 | 24 |
| John Brown University | John Brown University, AR | 1222 | 26 |
| California Lutheran University | California Lutheran University, CA | 1224 | 26 |
| University of Redlands | University of Redlands, CA | 1231 | 28 |
| University of South Florida | University of South Florida, FL | 1235 | 27 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Houston. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Alabama | The University of Alabama, AL | 1287 | 28 |
| University of Arizona | University of Arizona, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| University of the Pacific | University of the Pacific, CA | 1303 | 27 |
| Point Loma Nazarene University | Point Loma Nazarene University, CA | 1278 | 26 |
| Thomas Aquinas College | Thomas Aquinas College, CA | 1277 | 29 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- American Sign Language
- Anthropology
- Applied Mathematics
- Architecture
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Houston Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $62377 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $25056 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of University of Houston is 69.53 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.46. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.16, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.16, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.16 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.06 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
Question: Can I apply to University of Houston if my GPA is below 3.06
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.46, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement
Answer: Admission to University of Houston is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1229 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1150-1330
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by University of Houston.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.