Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with record-breaking applications and enrollment in recent years. This surge is driven by a mix of cultural and economic factors, as students increasingly seek institutions that affirm their identities and provide high-quality education.

Applications to HBCUs like Howard University, Spelman College, and Morgan State University have soared since 2020, with many schools reporting record numbers. Howard saw over 36,000 applications for the 2024-2025 academic year, while Spelman expects to surpass its own records. This growth has been fueled by the visibility of HBCUs in national movements like Black Lives Matter and the prominence of alumni such as Vice President Kamala Harris.

However, the boom presents challenges. Many HBCUs face chronic underfunding, smaller endowments, and infrastructure limitations. At Morgan State, enrollment growth has necessitated new housing projects. Similarly, at Alabama A&M University, increased enrollment has pushed some students to live off-campus, creating financial burdens. Howard, which welcomed its largest freshman class this year, is grappling with crowded classes and ongoing construction.

Despite these hurdles, the surge in interest has allowed schools to become more selective and invest in improvements. For example, Spelman College has halved its acceptance rate since 2020, and Fort Valley State University raised its GPA cutoff, improving retention and graduation rates.

The renewed prominence of HBCUs signals a shift in higher education as students seek institutions that align with their values and aspirations. While the growth brings logistical challenges, many leaders view it as an opportunity to enhance their institutions and expand their impact. As Johnson C. Smith University President Valerie Kinloch noted, “It’s a lot, but this is a good problem to have.”