University of Houston

Getting in is the hard part. University of Houston admitted 73.9% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what University of Houston actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

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

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• 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 current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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.

The sticker price is about $26,185, but that is not 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.

“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.

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, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $14,276.

Is University of Houston worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $62,377 ten years after enrolling, and 65% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.