Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HCBUs) are important to the American education system and help make higher education accessible to everyone. According to the U.S. Department of Education, HBCUs are accredited institutions of higher education, established prior to 1964, with the mission of educating black Americans.

 

Today, America has more than 100 HBCUs that admit people of all races and provide students opportunities to pursue different fields of study. HBCUs are increasing their internationalization efforts. Recently, Howard University, a prominent HBCU in Washington, D.C., reported increased international student enrollment.

 

The U.S. Department of State’s U.S.-Brazil Joint Action Plan Access to Education strives to unite HBCUs with their international counterparts by establishing an HBCU network abroad and short-term exchange programs among participating schools. Ranked among some of the top universities in the country, HBCUs have a legacy of international engagement and a desire to build a more multicultural experience for their students.

 

In September, the United States celebrated National HBCU Week to honor and renew the country’s commitment to these institutions. If you want to study at one of America’s HBCUs, we encourage you to first search our Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certification database to ensure the school is certified to enroll international students. Visit our Study Guide to the States for more details about the step by step process on how to study in the United States!