ASK THE BISON: FAQ Archives

Here are frequently asked questions and their answers that we have aquired from requests for information from site visitors. To ask a question click on Ask the Bison.

Curriculum & Programs


What are the undergraduate degrees offered by Howard at the School of Engineering?

The School of Engineering offers the Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Systems and Computer Science.

Are the programs in the School of Engineering accredited?

All the undergraduate programs in the School of Engineering are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology and the Computer Sciences Accrediting Board.

Admissions


What are the SAT requirements to get into the School of engineering?

The minimum SAT score required to be considered for admittance to the School of Engineering is 1040. However, while 1040 is the minimum required SAT score, it is possible to be admitted into the School of Engineering with a lower score - but this is based on other academic accomplishments such as GPA, ACT, class rank, etc.

Where can I get an application?

Applications are available from Admission at the University. You also can request an application through the internet. Click on "Application & Admission" on the side menu of this site. You or the prospective student can request an application or print a copy of the application from the internet.

What constitutes a complete application package?

High school transcript showing SAT or ACT test scores cumulative GPA; two letters of recommendation from teachers; one letter of recommendation from a high school counselor; a fully completed and signed Application for Admission and Housing; and payment for the Admission Application ($45) Housing Application ($50) fees.

How can I find out if my application arrived?

Call Admission at 202-806-2763 or 806-2760.

If I do not have the minimum SAT or ACT score for required for the school or college in which I am interested, can I still be considered?

Yes, but the University cannot guarantee that you will be accepted. In addition, we will automatically consider you for schools and colleges for which you are eligible.

What are the required SAT/ACT scores and the courses for the major in which I am interested?

Each school and college establishes it's own requirements. Call the school or college in which you are interested to obtain the individual requirements.

How can I apply if I have not decided on a major?

On the Application for Admission and Housing, indicate major subject as "undetermined." Therefore, select the College of Arts and Sciences with an undetermined major.

How do I place for English, foreign language, and mathematics courses?

The University uses the SAT II to place students at the appropriate level for English. Placement exams in foreign languages and mathematics are administered on campus several times during the summer preceeding the Fall semester and during Orientation week.

Can I review the courses offered before applying?

Yes. Course offerings are available on the Internet at the University's Web site.

Financial-Aid & Scholarships


When should you apply for financial aid?

Apply as soon after January 1, 2000 as possible. (You can't apply before this date.) It's easier to complete the application when you already have your 1998 tax return, so you may want to consider completing your tax return as early as possible. Do not sign, date, or send your application before January 1, 2000. If you apply by mail, send your completed application in the envelope that came with it. It is already addressed, and using it will ensure that your application reaches the correct address.

What are the types of Financial Aid available to undergraduates?

There are basically three types of financial aid available to undergraduate students in the School of Engineering:
  • Grants: financial aid you dont have to pay back.
  • Work-Study: lets you work and earn money to help pay for school.
  • Loans: these are burrowed money that you must repay with interest.

How do students apply for financial aid?

Howard University uses the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as its financial aid application. An applicant must complete the FAFSA by Howard University's February 15 deadline if applying for the upcoming school year. All students are encouraged to complete a FAFSA. FAFSAs must be sent to the Federal Student Aid Programs office (mailing envelepe is provided with the form), not to Howard University. Make sure to use the University's code number, 001448. Timely submission helps to ensure receiving timely notification of aid awarded.


What is an FSEOG?

Federal Supplement Educational Opportunity Grants (FSEOG) are gift aid for undergraduates with exceptional financial need. Federal Pell Grant recipients with the lowest Expected Family Contributions (EFCs)will be the first students to receive a FSEOG.


Academic Life


How large is the typical Freshman class?

The size varies from 1,200 to 2,000. There are 1,259 students in the class of 2001. Our ideal Freshman class size is 1,200.