What You Need To Know

HBCUs are colleges and universities that were originally created to

 allow African- Americans to go to college.“Prior to the Civil War, there 

were no structured higher education system for black students. Public 

policy and statutory provisions prohibited the education of 

blacks  in various parts of the nation. 

HBCUs are a source of accomplishment and great pride for the 

African American community as well as the entire nation.  

The Higher Education Act  of 1965, as amended, defines an HBCU 

as: “…any historically black college or university that was established prior to 1964, whose principal mission was, and is, the education of black Americans, and that is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association determined by the Secretary [of Education] to be a reliable authority as to the quality of training offered or is, according to such an agency or association, making reasonable progress toward accreditation.” HBCUs offer all students, regardless of race, an opportunity to develop their skills and talents. These institutions train young people who go on to serve domestically and internationally in the professions as entrepreneurs and in the public and private sectors.
 

Attending a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) is a rewarding experience! One of the best decisions many of our Alumni Chapter members has made, includes attending a HBCU. There are 105 HBCUs to choose from, but you have to select 

wisely which is best  for you.  

It is  recommended to visit the college of your choice, if possible, prior to final selection. In the Bay Area there are a few College tours offered through programs, high schools and churches. Aside from participating in a college tour, there are various other methods in selecting a HBCU.
 

"The fact that you are a graduate of a certain institution will say 

something about you to future employers and others."      

Ebony Guide to Historical Black Colleges & Universities
 

Consider location, college size, degrees offered 

and career goals, tuition and fees.
 

LOCATION - Small town or Big City? Both are rich in cultural experiences. Are you ready to venture off far from home? Do you have the discipline

 or will you be easily distracted by the small or big city lifestyle? 

Your parent(s), guardian/Counselor should be included in your decisions. 

Those who know your personality and temperament may assist you in 

making a better decision on your selection of a HBCU. 

COLLEGE SIZE - Why  is college size important? Size will reflect on what is available and what may be of importance to you. A larger university may offer more courses of study, more schools and colleges within the university  system, a greater selection of advanced degree programs and often a more diverse student body as well as faculty. A smaller college may be more personal, may offer smaller class size or moreover offer a family atmosphere in comparison to a large r college. Take some of these       qualities into consideration when selecting a college.
 

DEGREES & CAREER GOALS - Do you know what you want to 

do after graduation? Have you dreamed of becoming a dentist, 

engineer, attorney  or professor? If so, you should select a college

 that offers the courses you need, to become who you want to be. 

There are many fields of interest, find one that suites your character and one that you can visualize yourself  doing for years to come. Also think of a passion, may be this interest will  be your minor. Write your goals down, develop a time line and  discipline yourself. Find others who are also interested in the field or find professionals in the field; the idea is to surround yourself with positive individuals that will serve as support. These are the same individuals that maybe your resource(s), role models and references at a later time.

TUITION AND FEES - You can afford college! Search early for scholarships, financial aid and grants. Research guidelines, 

qualifications and programs.  Local alumni chapters, 

churches and companies offer scholarships. 

Do not let anything get in your way if you want to attend college.