Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played an integral role in American higher education, fostering academic excellence among African American communities for decades. With the ever-evolving college application process, platforms like the Common App make applying to colleges easier by centralizing the process into a single application for multiple schools. If you’re considering applying to an HBCU, knowing which ones accept the Common App can simplify your college application journey.
So, let’s get started on making your life easier!
Why Choose the Common Application?
The Common App is a widely recognized, centralized application platform that allows students to apply to multiple colleges and universities using just one form. This means you can save time and reduce the stress of applying to multiple schools individually. (That’s good news for you!) Plus, for students applying to HBCUs, the Common App makes keeping track of multiple applications much easier than before.
But there’s more! The Common App isn’t just about efficiency. It also takes a holistic approach to evaluating your application. Personal essays, letters of recommendation, and transcripts are all considered alongside your academic scores. This means you can showcase your strengths and achievements beyond just grades and test scores. So, with a solid application strategy, the Common App can be a powerful tool to help you stand out.
Now, let’s dive into the HBCUs that accept the Common App.
Top HBCUs Which Accept the Common App for College 2024
All of the HBCUs listed below are part of the Common App network. This makes it easier for you to apply to several schools with just one application:
Benedict College
Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina, is a private liberal arts college that emphasizes service learning and leadership. With the Common App, prospective students can more easily apply to join Benedict’s mission-driven academic environment.
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
Located in Cheyney, Pennsylvania, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania is the oldest historically Black college in the United States. Known for its strong programs in the liberal arts and sciences, Cheyney’s application simplifies the process, making it easier for students to join the rich history and legacy.
Claflin University
Located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Claflin University is a private institution that emphasizes academic excellence and leadership. Claflin simplifies the application process for students looking to join a school that nurtures both intellect and character.
Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University, located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, is a private HBCU with a strong focus on liberal arts and business education. The college streamlines the application process, making it easier for prospective students to join its vibrant academic community.
Coppin State University
Coppin State University, based in Baltimore, Maryland, is a public HBCU that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. With the Common App, Coppin State makes it easier for students to apply to its diverse and dynamic academic environment.
Delaware State University
Located in Dover, Delaware, Delaware State University is a public HBCU known for its strong programs in agriculture, business, and the sciences. The Common App allows prospective students to apply to Delaware State with greater ease, opening doors to a broad array of academic opportunities.
Dillard University
Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dillard University is a private liberal arts HBCU known for its emphasis on social justice and civic engagement. Dillard simplifies the application process, making it easier for students to apply and join its mission-driven academic community.
Elizabeth City State University
Located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Elizabeth City State University is a public HBCU that offers strong programs in aviation science, business, and education. The university provides prospective students with an easier way to apply and join its diverse and inclusive academic environment.
Fisk University
Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Fisk University is a private HBCU with a strong reputation for its liberal arts programs, particularly in the sciences and humanities. Fisk University streamlines the application process, allowing students to apply more easily to this prestigious institution known for its academic excellence and cultural heritage.
Florida A&M University (FAMU)
Florida A&M University, located in Tallahassee, Florida, is one of the largest HBCUs in the nation. Known for its strong programs in pharmacy, business, and engineering, FAMU’s inclusion in the Common App provides students with an easier way to apply to this prestigious institution.
Florida Memorial University
Florida Memorial University, located in Miami Gardens, Florida, is a private HBCU with a rich history and strong programs in aviation, business, and education. The Common App simplifies the application process for students interested in joining this vibrant and culturally diverse university.
Hampton University
Based in Hampton, Virginia, Hampton University is a private HBCU renowned for its emphasis on technology, business, and liberal arts programs. Hampton University simplifies the application process, making it easier for students to apply and join its esteemed academic programs.
Howard University
Located in Washington, D.C., Howard University is one of the most prestigious HBCUs in the nation. With strong programs in law, medicine, business, and the arts, Howard’s application allows students to easily apply to and join its rich academic and cultural community.
Jackson State University
Jackson State University, based in Jackson, Mississippi, is a public research university known for its strong emphasis on technology, education, and public service. With the Common App, Jackson State makes it easier for students to apply and become part of its vibrant academic community.
Johnson C. Smith University
Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Johnson C. Smith University is a private liberal arts university that offers a range of programs in arts, sciences, and business. The Common App simplifies the application process for students eager to join this institution known for its commitment to fostering leadership and service.
Lincoln University of Pennsylvania
Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, located in Chester County, is a public HBCU and the first degree-granting HBCU in the nation. Known for its programs in arts, sciences, and education, Lincoln University’s inclusion in the Common App makes it easier for students to apply to this historic institution.
Morehouse College
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Morehouse College is a private HBCU renowned for its strong liberal arts programs and commitment to developing leaders. With a focus on African American men, Morehouse’s inclusion in the Common App allows prospective students to easily apply to this institution with a legacy of producing influential graduates.
Morgan State University
Morgan State University, based in Baltimore, Maryland, is a public research university with a strong emphasis on engineering, architecture, and the sciences. Additionally, Morgan State provides a streamlined application process for students interested in joining its dynamic academic community.
Norfolk State University
Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia, is a public HBCU that offers a wide variety of programs, including business, education, and the sciences. With its acceptance of the Common App, Norfolk State provides students with a more straightforward application process.
North Carolina A&T State University
Located in Greensboro, North Carolina, North Carolina A&T State University is the largest HBCU in the country. The school is renowned for its engineering, agriculture, and business programs. The Common App makes it easier for students to apply to this prestigious institution.
North Carolina Central University (NCCU)
North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina, offers a range of programs in law, business, and the sciences. By accepting the Common App, NCCU simplifies the application process for students interested in joining its mission-driven academic environment.
Paine College
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Paine College is a private Christian HBCU that offers a variety of liberal arts and science programs. The Common App simplifies the application process for students interested in joining this institution known for its commitment to education, leadership, and service.
Shaw University
Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a private liberal arts university known for its strong emphasis on leadership and service. By accepting the Common App, Shaw University simplifies the application process for students eager to join this historic institution.
South Carolina State University
Located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, South Carolina State University is a public HBCU that offers a variety of programs, with a strong emphasis on education and agriculture. The Common App makes it easier for students to apply to this institution known for its commitment to academic excellence.
Spelman College
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, Spelman College is a private, women’s HBCU with a long history of empowering African American women through education. With strong liberal arts programs and a focus on leadership, Spelman’s application makes it easier for prospective students to apply to this prestigious institution.
Talladega College
Talladega College, located in Talladega, Alabama, is a private liberal arts HBCU with a strong focus on leadership and social responsibility. Further, Talladega College provides a more accessible application process for students seeking to join this historic institution.
Tuskegee University
Based in Tuskegee, Alabama, Tuskegee University is a private HBCU renowned for its programs in engineering, agriculture, and veterinary medicine. Tuskegee University simplifies the application process for students seeking to join its legacy of academic excellence and social responsibility.
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Located in Princess Anne, Maryland, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore is a public HBCU that offers a range of programs, with strong focuses on agriculture, education, and the sciences. The Common App simplifies the application process for students interested in joining this historic institution.
University of the District of Columbia
The University of the District of Columbia, based in Washington, D.C., is a public HBCU and the only public university in the nation’s capital. With strong programs in law, business, and urban sustainability, the university’s acceptance of the Common App makes it easier for students to apply and join its diverse academic community.
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a public HBCU that offers strong programs in health sciences, business, and education. The university simplifies the application process for students interested in joining its diverse and supportive academic environment.
Xavier University of Louisiana
Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, Xavier University of Louisiana is a private Catholic HBCU renowned for its strong programs in medical and pharmacy studies. By accepting the Common App, Xavier University simplifies the application process, making it easier for students to apply and join its esteemed academic community.
Benefits of Applying to HBCUs using the Common App
Here’s a quick summary of the reasons you might want to apply to multiple universities through the Common Application.
- Efficiency: You only need to fill out one application to apply to multiple HBCUs, saving valuable time and effort.
- Holistic Application: The Common App allows you to present a full portrait of your academic and extracurricular accomplishments.
- Fee Waivers: The Common App offers fee waivers for students who qualify, reducing financial barriers.
Common Black College Application: The Alternative
While many HBCUs accept the Common App, it’s also important to note the existence of the Common Black College Application (CBCA). This platform is designed specifically for students applying to HBCUs. What’s more, it allows you to apply to over 65 institutions with a single application fee of $20!
However, not all HBCUs are part of the CBCA, and some institutions accept both the Common App and the CBCA. So, it’s essential to carefully consider your options and choose the platform that best suits your needs and preferences.
Final Thoughts: HBCUs and the Common App
Choosing the right college is a significant decision. Applying to HBCUs through the Common App can make the process easier and more efficient. These institutions offer rich cultural and academic environments that can prepare you for a vibrant and successful future.
As you make your decisions, be sure to do your homework on each institution. If possible, visit the campuses, talk to current students and alumni, and learn more about the opportunities each HBCU offers. Whether you choose the Common App or the CBCA, the most important thing is to find the school that aligns with your goals, values, and aspirations.
If you’re looking for personalized guidance in your college application process, Empowerly can help. Our team of expert counselors provides tailored support to help you craft strong applications, navigate the Common App, and find the perfect fit for your higher education journey. From essay reviews to strategic planning, Empowerly is here to empower you every step of the way. Visit Empowerly to learn more about how we can help you achieve your college dreams.
