University of Houston campus
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University of Houston

Houston, TX · Public · 38,380 students

A vibrant campus with diverse events and academic resources.

Acceptance rate

73.9%

SAT (mid 50%)

1160–1340

Avg net price

$14,276

after aid

Next deadline

Jun 1

RD

Testing

Optional

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of Houston admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

University of Houston admitted 73.9% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1160–1340 on the SAT and 23–29 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of Houston actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Opportunity-Driven Research and Learning

At the University of Houston, you have access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities and a wealth of resources to help you succeed.

The university offers over 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, with options for pre-professional tracks and specialized college-based curricula.

  • Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture + DesignArchitecture, Industrial Design, Interior Architecture
  • Kathrine G. McGovern College of the ArtsPainting, Dance, Music, Theatre, Graphic Design
  • C.T. Bauer College of BusinessAccounting, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing

Verified from uh.edu and uh.edu and uh.edu and uh.edu and uh.edu and uh.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineJune 1, 2027 (RD)
  • Regular decisionJune 1, 2027
  • TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations0 letters
  • Personal essayNot required
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from https://www.uh.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Submit a literary analysis with a central thesis and strong supporting arguments, 3-5 pages, analyzing a book, play, short story, speech or poem. Do not submit a personal essay or research paper; an essay previously written for an English class that meets these criteria is recommended.

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.uh.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $26,185. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $14,276.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $62,377.

Verified from https://www.uh.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Psychology, General9% of degrees
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations7% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services5% of degrees
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness5% of degrees
  • Computer and Information Sciences, General4% of degrees
  • Biology, General4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Grab a free shake, explore the Maker's Market, and attend a FYE Mixer, a typical day on campus.”

Students gather for events like the Maker's Market, enjoy Free Shake Day at Shake Smart, and celebrate milestones like the MD Anderson Library's 75th Anniversary.

EntrepreneurialUrbanDiverse

Quick answers

What do people ask about University of Houston?

Is University of Houston test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Houston is optional.
How hard is it to get into University of Houston?
Very hard. University of Houston admits 73.9% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1160 to 1340 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the University of Houston application deadline?
The next deadline is June 1, 2027 (RD). Regular Decision closes June 1, 2027.
How much does University of Houston cost?
The list price is about $26,185. After aid, families pay $14,276 on average.
Is University of Houston worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $62,377 ten years after enrolling. 65% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about University of Houston.

Spike answers from University of Houston’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.