Applications to Historically Black Colleges and Universities are increasing

Enrollment is on the rise at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the United States, reflecting a growing interest among students.

While many colleges have seen a decline in enrollments in recent years, several of the 107 HBCUs are experiencing significant increases in applications and enrollments:

• Howard University received 37,000 applications, marking a 12 percent increase for its incoming class of 2,500 freshmen.
• Florida A&M University (FAMU), recognized as the nation’s top public HBCU, has witnessed applications nearly double over the past two years. By mid-June, it had received 21,939 applications for the incoming freshman class and admitted 3,877 students, resulting in an 18 percent admissions rate.

This trend is not limited to high-profile HBCUs. Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida, an HBCU affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church and with a current enrollment of just 1,175, saw a 161 percent increase in applications since 2019, receiving 10,457 applications for the incoming freshman class.

The surge in applications to HBCUs began after the May 2020 murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. Additionally, the Supreme Court’s June 2023 decision to ban race-conscious admissions and the rapid dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies at state universities in 23 states appear to be further boosting interest in HBCUs.