$47 million
scholarships & grants awarded in 2024-25
97%
students who receive financial aid
17
NCAA Division I sports teams

At a Glance

Houston Christian University offers an intimate college environment in the heart of one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the United States. Coming to HCU as a student is about more than books, tests, and lectures. It is about stepping into a community where each person is recognized as a distinct individual. HCU strives to not only develop each student academically but spiritually, physically, and relationally as well.

Counselor Update

Join representatives from Houston Christian, Lamar, Stephen F. Austin, and Sam Houston State for Fall 2025 updates. Bring your questions about admissions, test-optional policies, and financial aid. Counselor Update session details coming soon—stay tuned!

Choosing HCU

Established in 1960 as envisioned by its founders and constituents, Houston Christian University integrates faith and learning with a strong liberal arts foundation. The beautiful 100-acre campus is located just minutes from the city’s thriving downtown district, and the opportunities for jobs, internships, and fun surround it. We also provide generous merit aid opportunities for students who show promise in many areas.

Houston Christian University at a Glance

Admissions
Core Convictions
News and Events

Husky Women’s Athletics

Husky Men’s Athletics

21
Average ACT score
1090
Average SAT score
10th
in best-value schools among Regional Universities U.S. News & World Report

Admission Requirements & Test Optional Information

Test Optional

In an effort to accommodate those students who have been (or will be) unable to take the SAT &/or ACT exams, Houston Christian University is waiving the standardized test score requirement.

Applicants who choose to opt out from submitting a standardized test score will be considered holistically for admission to HCU, with the majority of the weight on the high school transcript.  However, all applicants will still be considered for scholarships whether they submit a test score, or not.

General Admissions Guidelines

Generally speaking, HCU is looking for students in the top half of their high school class with a 1070 or higher on the SAT (Math and EBRW sections combined) or a 21 composite score on the ACT.*

Here are some stats on the incoming freshman class of Fall 2019:

  • 51% were in the top quarter of their high school class
  • The average SAT score (Math and EBRW combined) was 1114
  • The average ACT composite score was 23

*These qualifications do not guarantee acceptance to HCU.

Application Process and Instructions

The Application Process

    1. Complete and submit online application
    2. Official High School/College Transcripts
      Submit online: Send.edu code: 6282 | TREX code: 6282
      Clearinghouse (college transcripts only): 6282
    3.  Submit official copies of SAT/or ACT scores
      HCU’s SAT code: 6282
      HCU’s ACT code: 4101Please note: students may submit official test scores on an SAT/ACT score report form completed by their counselor.Test Optional Requirements:
      1) HCU Essay: Please tell us why you believe HCU would help you reach your academic goals. We highly recommend that student spend time writing the essay
      2) Recommendation letter (optional but highly encouraged)Transfer Student Web page
      International Student Web page

Counselor Support

For questions or school materials, contact your admissions counselor. While we don’t mail catalogs, you can view course details online. Counselors can also add you to our database for HCU visit updates in your area.