FAQ
The college decision is an important one for students and their families. It’s always wise to take time to seek out answers to the questions you have, so that you can make an informed decision. HBU’s admissions counselors are always available to answer questions, but to give you a head start, they have put together a list of their most frequently asked questions about the admission process and life at HBU. If you don’t see the answers you need, please contact your admissions counselor. They’re here to help as you make your college decision.
Is there an application deadline?
No. There is no University application deadline. However, some programs will have specific program deadlines and program entry requirements. In every case, the Admissions Office should receive all credentials at least 60 days prior to the proposed registration date.
Is an application fee required and if so, how much?
There is a $25 application fee for the paper version of the HBU application – however, that fee will be waived if you
apply online or through our E-Z application.
No. Your acceptance to HBU depends on several other factors including your high school or college grade point average, class rank, as well as your overall academic performance.
Does your university combine multiple SAT/ACT scores?
Yes. Currently we combine the SAT Critical Reading and SAT Math scores from multiple test dates to maximize your potential SAT total. We do not recalculate the ACT composite score.
Do I have to submit an essay as part of my application?
No. There is currently no essay required as part of the HBU application. However, we do require applicants to take either the SAT and/or the ACT with the Writing section and essay included.
What if I fail to meet the minimum admissions standards?
A student who has graduated from a regionally-accredited high school but who does not meet the minimum standards may be eligible for admission to HBU on a provisional basis. In addition to the regular application process, an applicant may submit as supporting documentation to their application the following: an essay of no less than 250 words as well as two letters of recommendation, including at least one from a teacher, counselor, or other academic official. We also give provisional admits the opportunity to attend the Summer Academy and improve their chances for admission and/or a scholarship.
Does the University accept students who have completed a home school curriculum?
Will the university accept the General Education Diploma (GED)?
Yes. HBU requires a minimum total average score of at least 50 on the GED.
Does the university accept dual credit?
Yes. Dual credit from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade of C or better is accepted. This credit will be evaluated for
HBU equivalencies towards your desired degree.
HBU welcomes students at any point in their educational career. Transfer students should read our
Transfer Admission Policy for more information on specific application requirements, transfer credit and special on campus events specifically for transfer students.
Yes. Credit hours from a regionally accredited college or university with a grade of C or better are accepted. This credit will be evaluated for
HBU equivalencies towards your desired degree. Every effort will be made to maximize your progress towards degree.
All new students must complete their first registration on the HBU campus during
SOAR. During this initial registration students are instructed on how register online for future terms.
Students are required to
live on campus unless the student is one of the following:
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21 years of age or older prior to September 1 or has completed 96 credit hours prior to the beginning of the fall semester
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Married or a graduate student
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Enrolled for 12 or fewer credits per semester (part-time student)
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Living at home with parents/guardians in the Houston area
No, there is not a difference in tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
How many courses are considered a full load?
Any student taking 12 or more credit hours is considered to be full-time. Students who wish to take more than 18 hours must get approval from their advisor.
Are internships and study-abroad programs available?
Does the university have a graduate school?
Yes. HBU currently offers
masters degrees in a variety of disciplines.
Houston Baptist University, a Texas Baptist institution, is a coeducational, independent university was founded in 1960.
Read more history about HBU.
Our campus is located on roughly 100 acres in southwest Houston - one of the nation's most vibrant and diverse cities. Total enrollment is approximately 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students.
View the Campus Map.
HBU welcomes students of all faiths and denominations. There is no requirement for students to be a Christian. However, all undergraduate students are required to complete 9 semester hours of Christianity coursework as well as 80 Community Life & Worship credits, which can be earned through a variety of activities to graduate. All faculty and staff are required to be of the Christian faith.
What is Community Life and Worship?
The
Community Life and Worship program seeks to promote community, develop student leadership, build moral character and provide an environment for every student to know Christ. A variety of options, including attendance at Convocation, Bible studies, and community and social service opportunities, are provided to help students fulfill this requirement.
HBU sponsors
varsity athletic teams and is a member of the Great West Conference in NCAA-Division I. The Huskies compete in men’s basketball, baseball, golf and soccer, and women’s basketball, volleyball, golf, softball and soccer, as well as in cross country and track and field. Students may also participate in club sports competing against other schools and/or intramural sports for friendly competition with other HBU students.
Beginning in July of 2013, HBU will join the Southland Conference with the addition of football in 2014.
HBU currently has a 15 to 1 student/teacher ratio.
Is there a student health clinic on campus?
The
Student Health Services clinic is located on the first floor of the Lake House. Services are provided to all students who are currently enrolled. An attending family practice physician supports the clinic.
Yes.
Career Services is located in the Brown Administrative Complex, room 149; there you will find a listing of all on campus employment opportunities. Please inquire early in the semester as job postings tend to fill quickly.
No. Overnight housing is only available to prospective students when they attend Winter Preview. Please contact your
admissions counselor for more information.
HBU’s location offers easy access to many of the
city’s attractions. The Galleria shopping area is approximately 10-15 minutes from campus. Other popular sites include Minute Maid Park, Reliant Stadium, the theater district, the museum district, the downtown business district, and the world-renowned Texas Medical Center. HBU is also within easy driving distance of attractions such as NASA or Galveston Island.