Non-Profit Private
Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Brownwood, Texas
67.7% Acceptance Rate
Howard Payne University — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
67.7%Acceptance Rate
3.3Avg GPA
1019Avg SAT
22Avg ACT
$44,579Annual Cost
$48,376Grad Salary
42.2%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
67.7%
Avg GPA
3.3
Avg SAT
1019
Avg ACT
22
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
880–1100
ACT Middle 50%
18–25
Need-Based Aid
42.2% receive Pell
Howard Payne University, established in 1889 in Brownwood, Texas, is a Baptist-affiliated institution known for its Christian studies, music, and criminal justice programs.
The historic 80-acre campus features the Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom museum, the Paul and Jane Meyer Christian Studies Center, and modern science facilities. The university's close-knit community fosters spiritual and academic growth.
Howard Payne University Acceptance Rate
Howard Payne University is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Howard Payne University is 67.7%. This means that 68 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 — 67.7% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.30 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.10 – 3.29
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.85
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.
Howard Payne University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at Howard Payne University is 3.3. 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 3.50-3.70 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.00 and 3.3, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
Howard Payne University GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.
Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).
Admissions at Howard Payne University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.3, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.30 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.10 – 3.29
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.90 – 3.09
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.89
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Howard Payne University, 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 Howard Payne University
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Howard Payne University'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.
Howard Payne University 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 Howard Payne University Without SAT or ACT?
Howard Payne University 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.
Howard Payne University Average SAT Score: 1019
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Howard Payne University is 1019 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1019 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1019 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1100 SAT or 25 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Howard Payne University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 880, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Howard Payne University. 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 | 480 | 430 | 530 |
| SAT Reading | 510 | 450 | 570 |
| SAT Composite | 1019 | 880 | 1100 |
It means that if you have scored less than 880 then you are below most of the admitted students at Howard Payne University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1100 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 1000
Can I get into Howard Payne University with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Howard Payne University are good but the admission staff at Howard Payne University 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.
Howard Payne University ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Howard Payne University is 22.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 22 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes Howard Payne University slightly Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 22 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 21 | 17 | 25 |
| ACT English | 21 | 17 | 25 |
| ACT Composite | 22 | 18 | 25 |
Can I get into Howard Payne University with a 25 ACT?
A 25 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Howard Payne University — 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 Howard Payne University 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 Howard Payne University — 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 Howard Payne University 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 25 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 Howard Payne University
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
Howard Payne University 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 Howard Payne University to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
Howard Payne University Profile
Full Name
Howard Payne University
City
Brownwood
State
Texas
ZIP Code
76801-2794
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Is a Howard Payne University Degree Worth It?
Getting into Howard Payne University 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. Howard Payne University 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 Howard Payne University is $55,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.47%.
How much does a degree from Howard Payne University Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Howard Payne University is $44,579. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Howard Payne University is much less than this.
42.2% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 66.1 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Howard Payne University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Howard Payne University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Howard Payne University as your choice in the form.
How much does a Howard Payne University Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $48,376. An average Howard Payne University 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 Howard Payne University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama State University | Montgomery, AL | 977 | 18 |
| Baptist Health College Little Rock | Little Rock, AR | 980 | 20 |
| Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo, CO | 1005 | 22 |
| University of Bridgeport | Bridgeport, CT | 985 | NA |
| Delaware State University | Dover, DE | 984 | 24 |
| Trinity Baptist College | Jacksonville, FL | 1007 | 20 |
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Tifton, GA | 994 | 19 |
| College of Coastal Georgia | Brunswick, GA | 1001 | 18 |
| Clayton State University | Morrow, GA | 973 | 18 |
| Columbus State University | Columbus, GA | 994 | 21 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Howard Payne University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faulkner University | Montgomery, AL | 1016 | 20 |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston, AL | 1015 | 20 |
| Central Baptist College | Conway, AR | 1022 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
| Williams Baptist University | Walnut Ridge, AR | 1018 | 19 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Howard Payne University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville, AL | 1055 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
Degree Programs at Howard Payne University
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by Howard Payne University →
Frequently Asked Questions About Howard Payne University Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $48,376 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $44,579 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
42.2% 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 Howard Payne University is 67.7% 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 3.3. 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, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 2.9 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 3.3, 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 Howard Payne University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1019 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 880–1100.
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.