Howard University for Nigerian Students
Entry Requirements by Level
Academic Requirements
Direct entry available. Apply via Common App or Howard's portal. WAEC accepted. Strong programmes in Business, Law, Medicine, Engineering, and Communications. DC location provides exceptional internship and career opportunities.
English Language
IELTS: 6.5+ overall. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: $39,178. Application deadline: November 1–15 (Early Action/Decision); January 1–15 (Regular Decision).
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3/4. Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required. Graduate school offers strong programmes in Social Work, Business, Communications, Public Administration, and Engineering. ISFAA need-based aid available for international graduate students.
English Language
IELTS: 6.5+ overall. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: $39,178. Application deadline: December 1 – February 1 (varies by programme). Decision time: 8–16 weeks.
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3/4. Master's degree required (or Bachelor's with First Class Honours for some programmes). Fully funded positions available. PhD programmes available in STEM and humanities. Research assistantships available. Strong connections to federal agencies and international organisations in DC.
Specific Requirements
Research proposal required. Identify and contact a potential supervisor before applying. References from two academic supervisors.
Deadline
December 1 – January 15
Documents Required
Available Scholarships
Howard University International Student Financial Aid (ISFAA)
by Howard University · Undergraduate, Masters
Learn more →Fulbright Foreign Student Program
by US Government (Department of State) · Masters, Phd
Learn more →Graduate Assistantship (Teaching/Research)
by University Department · Masters, Phd
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Howard University accept WAEC/NECO for undergraduate admission?
Yes — WAEC/NECO is accepted as the secondary school qualification for undergraduate admission to Howard University. WES credential evaluation is recommended for graduate applications. No foundation year is required.
What GPA is required for a Masters degree at Howard University?
The minimum GPA for Masters admission at Howard University is 3.0/4.0. Competitive programmes may require 3.5+. Your undergraduate transcript from a recognised Nigerian university is the primary academic credential.
What scholarships are available for Nigerian students at Howard University?
The main scholarships for Nigerian students at Howard University are: the ISFAA (International Student Financial Aid — need-based, apply with CSS Profile), the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (US government, full funding for Masters/PhD — apply through the US Embassy in Nigeria), and departmental Graduate Assistantships (tuition waiver + $15,000–$34,000/year stipend).
Tips for Applying to Howard
Howard University is an iconic HBCU (Historically Black College/University) in Washington, DC, with one of the largest Nigerian and West African student communities of any US university. Located steps away from the World Bank, IMF, and dozens of international organisations and embassies, Howard offers unparalleled networking and internship opportunities for students in Business, Law, Public Policy, and International Development. The ISFAA need-based financial aid programme is available to international students.
Official source: Howard University ↗Plan Your United States Student Visa
Check visa requirements, documents and costs for Nigerian passport holders applying to United States.
Cost of Living in Washington, DC
Washington DC is an expensive city. Howard's campus is in NW DC — explore nearby Maryland suburbs for more affordable housing.
Cook at home for savings. DC has excellent international food markets.
DC Metro SmarTrip card. Howard is near several Metro stations. Student discounts available.