Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University has an acceptance rate of 39.1%, annual tuition of $26,709, average net price of $19,719, and a national rank of #1629 (Grade C), with a 33.9% graduation rate within 150% of normal time, about 1,005 undergraduates, and median earnings of $38,342 four years after graduation. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Huston-Tillotson University is a private nonprofit university in Austin, TX. Students most often pursue creative industries.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, and 58.2% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at 44.1%, roughly 5.8 points below typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Huston-Tillotson University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Huston-Tillotson University graduates 33.9% of students within 150% of normal time (the completion rate used in EDsmart rankings), with an 8-year award rate of 43.2% and keeps 58.2% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Huston-Tillotson University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $26,709 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,200 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $8,469 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $1,700 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $25,384 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 61.2% of Huston-Tillotson University students receive Pell Grants — well above the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $19,219 to $24,418 depending on family income. Use Huston-Tillotson University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $22,757/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $24,418/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- Median Earnings (4 Years After Graduation) $38,342
- 10-Year Median Earnings $42,937
- Average Years to Graduate 4.4 years
- Average Student Debt $30,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 29.4%
- Employment Rate 89.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Huston-Tillotson University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Huston-Tillotson University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Huston-Tillotson University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Huston-Tillotson University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Huston-Tillotson University graduates earn $38,342 median, the 44.1% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 430-590
- SAT Math 370-570
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 16-28
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,005
- Full-Time Students 79.8%
- Part-Time Students 20.2%
- Retention Rate 58.2%
- Grad Rate (150% time) 33.9%
- Grad Rate (8-year) 43.2%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 14:1
How to Get Into Huston-Tillotson University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Huston-Tillotson University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 39.1%, Huston-Tillotson University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Huston-Tillotson University accepts 39.1% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 800 and 1160 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Huston-Tillotson University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Psychology, General, and Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 29.2%
- Psychology, General 19.3%
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods 12.3%
- Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 9.9%
- Criminal Justice and Corrections 7.6%
- Biology, General 6.4%
See more majors
- Communication and Media Studies 4.7%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 2.3%
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Huston-Tillotson University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 50 graduates)
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities (Associate's Degree, 33 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 33 graduates)
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods (Bachelor's Degree, 21 graduates)
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 17 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (17 programs)▼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Psychology, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Biology, General
- Communication and Media Studies
- Political Science and Government
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- History
- Computer Science
- English Language and Literature, General
- Sociology
- Mathematics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Music
- Chemistry
Online Master's Degrees (2 programs)▼
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,005
- Full-Time Students 79.8%
- Part-Time Students 20.2%
- Male Students 46.0%
- Female Students 54.0%
- Caucasian 7.2%
- Asian 0.2%
- Hispanic 10.5%
- Black 61.1%
- Pell Grant Recipients 61.2%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Huston-Tillotson University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Huston-Tillotson University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Huston-Tillotson University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Huston-Tillotson University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Huston-Tillotson University has a diverse student body, with 7.2% identifying as White. 61.2% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Huston-Tillotson University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a different rate as higher-income students, indicating varying levels of institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Huston-Tillotson University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Huston-Tillotson University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with 44.1% ROI. Ranked #1629 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $19,719 annual net price is moderately higher than state schools, offset somewhat by $38,342 median earnings. With 33.9% graduating within 150% of normal time and 58.2% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Huston-Tillotson University's Positioning
With a C grade and #1629 ranking, Huston-Tillotson University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $19,719 annually, Huston-Tillotson University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 58.2% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $13,803 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The 44.1% ROI and $38,342 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $9,719+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Huston-Tillotson University ranks #1629 of 1947 institutions, with 1502 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 33.9% graduation rate sits 28.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 58.2% first-year retention is 18.6 points below the national norm of 76.8%.
- 44.1% return on investment is 5.8 points below the national 49.9% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $38,342 run about 36% lower than national outcomes four years after graduation.
- Average net price of $19,719 is roughly $360 lower than the national median of $20,079.
Helpfulness for Students
- 14:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 58.2% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 89.1% employment rate within three years sits 20.9 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Huston-Tillotson University, a private nonprofit university in Austin, TX, secures a C grade in our latest review. It appears at #1629 in EDsmart's national list Category results include Completion (C), Support (C+), Career Outcomes (C+), and Affordability (B+).
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 58.2% of first-year students return; 33.9% graduate within 150% of normal time, with an 8-year award rate of 43.2%. The reported ROI is 44.1%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $19,719 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $25,384.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $5,665 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $30,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 61.2% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Six years in, alumni earn roughly $38,342 at the median. That sits about 36% below the national median.
Employment outcomes report about 89.1% of alumni working within three years.
Plan around an ROI of about 44.1% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
39.1% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Huston-Tillotson University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Huston-Tillotson University's acceptance rate?
Huston-Tillotson University's acceptance rate is 39.1%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Huston-Tillotson University cost?
At Huston-Tillotson University, listed tuition and fees are $26,709 per year, and the average net price after aid is $19,719. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Huston-Tillotson University's ranking?
Huston-Tillotson University ranks #1629 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Huston-Tillotson University's graduation rate?
At Huston-Tillotson University, the graduation rate within 150% of normal time is 33.9% (the rate used in EDsmart rankings), College Scorecard 8-year award rate is 43.2%, and first-year retention is 58.2%.
What are Huston-Tillotson University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Huston-Tillotson University report median earnings of $38,342 four years after graduation, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Huston-Tillotson University's student population?
Huston-Tillotson University enrolls about 1,005 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Austin, TX 78702-2795
- Website www.htu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$12.8M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate4.6%