Be A Bearkat

Start Your New Adventure

Become a Bearkat today!

Named for Sam Houston, Texas’ greatest hero, Sam Houston State University (SHSU) continually strives to honor its roots through academic excellence. For more than 140 years, SHSU has been preparing students for meaningful lives of achievement. Its motto, “The Measure of a Life is its Service,” resonates among its 21,000+ students and echoes across eight colleges and beyond.

With over 90+ bachelor's degree programs, more than 60+ master’s degree programs and 10 doctoral programs, including the nation’s first PhD in Forensic Science, SHSU offers an exceptional college experience.


You are considered a freshman student if...

Freshman Requirements

  • recently graduated or soon will graduate from high school OR
  • recently graduated or soon will graduate from high school and has completed transferable college credit while in high school OR
  • is not a recent high school graduate or received a GED but has completed less than 12 transferable credit hours

Completed more than 12 transferable credit hours after graduating high school? Go to transfer students admission instructions.

International students can learn more at shsu.edu/admissions/international.

See all student journeys.

Estimated cost per semester: Tuition & fees: $4480; Books: $285; Residence hall: $2940; Meal plan: $2450; Total: $10155. Based on Fall 2022/Spring 2023 rates and subject to change.

How do I apply to Sam Houston?
What is automatic admission?
What is dual credit?

 FY23AdmissionsApplicationDeadlines.png

Who can you contact with questions?

For assistance, support, and guidance with admissions, financial aid, degree discovery, and more, contact SHSU Admissions at 936.294.1828, admissions@shsu.edu or find your admissions counselor.

Collage of students on campus, football players holding the national championship trophy, mascot Sammy Bearkat, students in downtown Huntsville, and the Sam Houston statue on campus.

Support Your Journey

At SHSU, we have many resources available to help you along your journey to becoming a Bearkat!

Know Your Deadlines

September 1: Scholarship4Kats application opens. October 1: FAFSA opens for following school year and housing application opens to new students. November 1: FAFSA & Scholarships4Kats priority date.

Get To Know SHSU Better...

Check out our Bearkat Blog, watch a quick tour video or sign up for a full in-person tour, see what life is like at SHSU.

Get the Inside Scoop - Bearkat Blog
Video caption: Hear From Students - Testimonials
Stay in the Know - SHSU Terms
Video caption: Here for Your Journey Resources

 


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MAJORS & PROGRAMS
SHSU At A Glance
  • Region
    • US - South
    • Online
  • Type of School
    • 4-Year Public
  • Campus Size
    • Large (>20,000 students)
  • Campus Setting
    • Rural
  • Application Types
    • Regular Decision
    • Rolling Admissions
  • Application Style
    • State-wide College Application
Learn More
Collage of horticulture student and professor looking at a plant, equine science students riding horses, and students working together around a table as a professor looks on.

Accepted, Now What?

Congratulations on your acceptance to Sam Houston State University! Your transition to SHSU should be easy and our office is here to help as you continue your Bearkat journey.