Public
Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Houston, Texas
69.5% Acceptance Rate
University of Houston — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
69.5%Acceptance Rate
3.46Avg GPA
1229Avg SAT
26Avg ACT
$25,056Annual Cost
$62,377Grad Salary
40.9%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
69.5%
Avg GPA
3.46
Avg SAT
1229
Avg ACT
26
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
1150–1330
ACT Middle 50%
23–28
Avg Net Price
$13,853
Need-Based Aid
40.9% receive Pell
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 is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of University of Houston is 69.5%. This means that 70 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 69.5% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.46 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.26 – 3.45
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.01
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
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.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.66-3.86 for this same academic profile.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.
Check Your Admission Chances at UH
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Houston's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
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 2026 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.
Can I Get Into UH Without SAT or ACT?
University of Houston considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.
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
SAT 1229 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do 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, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UH. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
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
ACT 26 — Competitive
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?
A 28 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Houston — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at University of Houston use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that University of Houston — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether University of Houston uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 28 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UH
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
UH is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at UH to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
UH Profile
Full Name
University of Houston (UH)
City
Houston
State
Texas
ZIP Code
77204-2018
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Is a UH Degree Worth It?
Getting into UH can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. UH offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at UH is $68,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.82%.
How much does a degree from UH Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Houston is $25,056. 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 $13,853.
40.9% 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 does a UH Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $62,377. 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 $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
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, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| Samford University | Birmingham, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Arkadelphia, AR | 1212 | 25 |
| Dominican University of California | San Rafael, CA | 1194 | 26 |
| Eastern Connecticut State University | Willimantic, CT | 1200 | NA |
| University of Hartford | West Hartford, CT | 1207 | 29 |
| University of New Haven | West Haven, CT | 1190 | NA |
| Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT | 1212 | 27 |
| Howard University | Washington, 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 is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mobile | Mobile, AL | 1220 | 24 |
| John Brown University | Siloam Springs, AR | 1222 | 26 |
| California Lutheran University | Thousand Oaks, CA | 1224 | 26 |
| University of Redlands | Redlands, CA | 1231 | 28 |
| University of South Florida | Tampa, 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 | Tuscaloosa, AL | 1287 | 28 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| University of the Pacific | Stockton, CA | 1303 | 27 |
| Point Loma Nazarene University | San Diego, CA | 1278 | 26 |
| Thomas Aquinas College | Santa Paula, CA | 1277 | 29 |
Degree Programs at UH
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Houston →
Frequently Asked Questions About UH Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $62,377 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $25,056 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
40.9% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.
The acceptance rate of University of Houston is 69.5% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.46. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
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 are 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.
If your GPA is 3.06 or less, it may make 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.