The Advantages of Applying to 70+ HBCUs Through the Common Black College Application (CBCA)

Helping our students build smart, affordable college lists means looking for tools that reduce stress and widen the door of opportunity. One tool that often flies under the radar—especially for students interested in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—is the Common Black College Application (CBCA).

If you aren’t already familiar with it, the CBCA allows students to apply to 70+ Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) for a single $20 fee. Yep, you read that right. One application. One low payment. Dozens of potential acceptances.

As a test-prep tutor or college counselor, knowing how the CBCA works (and how to help students leverage it effectively) can make a huge difference in your clients’ college options, scholarship access, and financial aid opportunities.

What Is the Common Black College Application (CBCA)?

The CBCA is an online college application platform that allows students to apply to multiple participating HBCUs at once. Instead of juggling multiple college application portals, college essays, and application fees, students complete one application, pay one $20 submission fee, and their information is shared with each participating institution.

After submission, schools then review applications individually and reach out directly to applicants for any supplemental materials, scholarship information, or next steps.

Who Should Consider Using the CBCA?

The CBCA can be helpful for:

• Students exploring several HBCUs

• First-generation college applicants

• Students seeking affordability

• Applicants who prefer a simplified college application process

• Students who are interested in the academic, cultural, or social experience that many HBCUs offer

Even if students ultimately choose only one school to apply to, the CBCA helps most applicants discover schools they might not have considered otherwise.

How the CBCA Works

Here are the steps students need to take to apply through the Common Black College App:

Step 1: Create an online account. After students create their online account, they begin the process by submitting basic academic and demographic information.

Step 2: Select up to 4 HBCUs. While their application is visible to all participating institutions, selecting four top choices helps schools gauge interest and reach out proactively.

Step 3: Coordinate with their high school counselor. This is a crucial step. High school counselors must upload official transcripts and, if applicable, test scores through the CBCA portal. Always encourage your clients to notify their school counselor early to avoid delay.

Step 4: Pay the one-time $20 fee. This fee covers all participating institutions. No hidden costs—seriously.

Step 5: Watch for communication. Schools may reach out via email or through the platform with acceptance decisions, scholarship details, next steps, or supplemental forms. Advise your students to check spam folders and monitor email closely so they don’t miss anything.

Why the CBCA Matters

Let’s be honest: the college application process is growing more overwhelming each year. Navigating different portals, keeping up with deadlines, and paying multiple application fees can be frustrating.

The CBCA cuts through that noise by:

• Saving families money

• Saving students time

• Encouraging school and program exploration

• Supporting access and equity

For many students, the CBCA opens doors to academic opportunities that might otherwise remain closed.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

One major advantage of applying to multiple HBCUs at once is the increased chance of earning financial aid. After submitting the CBCA:

• Students should file the FAFSA as early as possible

• Review scholarship portals at each interested institution

• Look for departmental or merit-based options in target majors

Many HBCUs offer generous aid packages to strong applicants.

Top 5 Participating HBCUs

While all participating schools offer incredible opportunities, here are 5 well-known HBCUs currently using the CBCA. Please note: These 5 schools either require or strongly recommend SAT®/ACT® scores as part of their freshman admission review. Test-optional policies vary, so be sure to check individual school websites for current test requirements. However, strong SAT® or ACT® results can still:

• Boost scholarship potential

• Strengthen borderline GPAs

• Help in competitive majors

1. Alabama A&M University

GPA and ACT®/SAT® scores are combined to create a Composite Predictive Index (CPI). The CPI must be 18 or higher for full admission. 

2. Alabama State University

ASU uses a GPA + ACT®/SAT® sliding scale for certain applicants. Supplemental materials may be requested based on the strength of the applicant’s high school transcript.

3. Alcorn State University

Admissions emphasizes GPA, core courses, and ACT®/SAT® scores for admission. Specific minimum thresholds vary—check admissions requirements for the current year.

4. Morehouse College

Morehouse is currently test-optional; however, ACT®/SAT® score submission is highly recommended. Typical admitted ranges average around SAT® 1050 and ACT® 18–25.

5. Morgan State University

While Morgan State maintains a test-optional policy, ACT®/SAT® scores are strongly recommended. Without ACT®/SAT® scores, applicants must display a strong academic record (GPA, course rigor, and grades).

A complete and current list of participating HBCU institutions can be found directly on the CBCA’s official website:

The CBCA continues to expand its membership—now serving more than 70 HBCUs—and that number will likely keep growing as culturally rich communities, supportive academic environments, and impressive alumni networks draw more students to HBCU campuses nationwide.

How to Support Your Students Using the CBCA

If your client is considering any of the schools on the list of HBCUs, you can help them boost their chance by encouraging students to:

• Prepare a strong academic profile. Strong test scores, solid grades, and quality coursework still matter more than ever.

• Write a memorable essay. Even if a school doesn’t require them, essays can add context and personality.

• Request transcripts ASAP. Students often assume counselors will upload everything automatically—requesting early and keeping tabs with gentle reminders can prevent delays.

• Submit ACT®/SAT® scores regardless of testing policies. Strong scores can significantly strengthen an application and help students stand out in a competitive applicant pool.

The Common Black College Application is one of the most cost-effective and accessible college application tools. For just $20, students can explore more than 70 institutions that offer higher education opportunities combined with rich history, strong academic programs, and supportive communities—all in one platform.

Want some background context? Check out my previous article on the CBCA here: The Value and Importance of the Common Black College Application (CBCA).

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