Sam Houston State University (SHSU): 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs
This is the go-to guide for getting into Sam Houston State University (SHSU). We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Sam Houston State University (SHSU), but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown Sam Houston State University (SHSU) statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out Sam Houston State University (SHSU) on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. If you're interesting in transferring to Sam Houston State University (SHSU), the read our transfer guide. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at Sam Houston State University (SHSU)
What GPA Do You Need To Get Into Sam Houston State University (SHSU)?
Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s average GPA is 3.3. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) does require GPA. This average GPA means Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is very selective. Often times, schools in this range are trying to increase their selectivity and “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of Sam Houston State University (SHSU) application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.3 to 3.47 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 3.47 GPA.
*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s campus. These Sam Houston State University (SHSU) admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.
What Is Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s Acceptance Rate?
Last year Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s acceptance rate was 72.71. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.
As you can see, Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is getting more and more difficult to get into. If this trend continue it’s likely that Sam Houston State University (SHSU) will be even more competitive by the time you apply.
Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Sam Houston State University (SHSU) - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acceptance Rate | 72.0 % | 74.0 % | 72.71 % |
Will You Get Into Sam Houston State University (SHSU)?
Calculate Your ChancesDoes Sam Houston State University (SHSU) Require Test Scores?
Sam Houston State University (SHSU) requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.
Sam Houston State University (SHSU) SAT Requirements
Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s average SAT score is 970 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether Sam Houston State University (SHSU) is getting more or less competitive.
| 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Math | 430 | 540 | 485 |
| Reading | 440 | 530 | 485 |
| 2019 Total | 870 | 1070 | 970 |
| 2018 Total | - | - | - |
| 2017 Total | - | - | - |
Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s average SAT score is 970. To be a competitive applicant for Sam Houston State University (SHSU) your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 870, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Sam Houston State University (SHSU) a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1070.
Will You Get Into Sam Houston State University (SHSU)?
Calculate Your ChancesSam Houston State University (SHSU) ACT Requirements
Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s average ACT score is 64. To be a competitive applicant for Sam Houston State University (SHSU) your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 55, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Sam Houston State University (SHSU) a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 73.
| 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Math | 17 | 23 | 20 |
| Reading | 19 | 26 | 22 |
| Writing | 19 | 24 | 21 |
| 2019 Total | 55 | 73 | 64 |
| 2018 Total | - | - | - |
| 2017 Total | - | - | - |
Will You Get Into Sam Houston State University (SHSU)?
Calculate Your Chances
Sam Houston State University (SHSU) Requirements
Now you know where you need to be for getting into Sam Houston State University (SHSU) from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.
| Recommendations | Status |
|---|---|
| School Rank | Required |
| GPA | Recommended |
| School Record | Required |
How to get into Sam Houston State University (SHSU)
Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into Sam Houston State University (SHSU). Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.
Main Academic Excellence that is in line with Sam Houston State University (SHSU) admission standards.
- Score at least a 970 on the SAT or 64 on the ACT.
- Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.3.
Join Extracurriculars that Align with Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s Values.
- Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If Sam Houston State University (SHSU) values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
- Volunteer in your hometown. Huntsville has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Huntsville area in general.
- Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. Sam Houston State University (SHSU) needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.
Prepare Your Application
- Write a stellar essay that shows Sam Houston State University (SHSU) something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
- Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your Sam Houston State University (SHSU) app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
- Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that Sam Houston State University (SHSU)’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.
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