Howard University has drawn criticism after notifying hundreds of incoming first-time college students that their spots for the upcoming semester would no longer be held. The university stated that these students had not met enrollment and financial obligations by the established deadlines.
In response, other educational institutions are extending admissions deadlines and providing assistance to students who are now scrambling to find alternative college options. The University of the District of Columbia, an HBCU in Washington, has extended its undergraduate application deadline to August 7. Hasanna Tyus, the vice president of enrollment services at UDC, stated that the university understands plans can change unexpectedly and wants students to know they still have options.
In New York, Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the State University of New York and City University of New York systems are expediting late admissions reviews for state residents affected by Howard's decision. Participating campuses within these systems will also offer an $800 credit to students to offset enrollment deposits previously paid to Howard that have not been refunded.
Hochul emphasized New York's commitment to welcoming these students, stating, "New York is home to the nation's finest systems of public higher education, and we are ready to welcome these talented students with the opportunity they deserve."
Among the students impacted is Keana Johnson, a 17-year-old who had been accepted into Howard's nursing program for the fall 2026 semester. Johnson, who resides in a New York City homeless shelter, expressed her disappointment and ongoing hope to still attend Howard. She has been attempting to get clarification from the university but has yet to receive satisfactory answers.
Howard University acknowledged that students who believe their accounts do not accurately reflect their financial standing should contact the financial aid office, as each case will be reviewed individually for potential adjustments or reinstatement. As of the latest reports, the university had not provided the number of students who have been reinstated or the status of ongoing reviews.