Top 5 by Enrollment in 2025

Last Updated on September 15, 2025

HBCUs aren’t just schools—they’re family reunions with history, resilience, and unapologetic Black excellence at the core. While other colleges are seeing numbers dip, the Largest HBCUs are doing the exact opposite—growing, thriving, and leveling up. For 2025, we’re spotlighting the five campuses leading the pack in enrollment and impact. These schools aren’t just big in numbers; they’re big in culture, innovation, and community.

How We Ranked the Largest HBCUs

This list is based on the latest data from the 2024–2025 academic year (or the most recent year available). We pulled from official university sources, common data sets, and trusted education databases. Rankings are all about total headcount—undergrad plus grad students combined.

1. North Carolina A&T State University — The Largest HBCU Overall

Enrollment: 15,275 students (Fall 2025)
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
Undergraduate Tuition: $3,540 in‑state | $17,200 out‑of‑state

Aggie Pride is undefeated. North Carolina A&T State University, aka Aggie Nation, is holding down the #1 spot as the Largest HBCU for the twelfth straight year. In fall 2025, they broke past 15K students for the first time—a 6.7% jump from the year before. That’s not just growth, that’s dominance.

With powerhouse programs in engineering and agriculture, plus booming grad enrollment and research, A&T is proving that when Aggies win, the future wins too.

2. Howard University — “The Mecca” Keeps Growing

Enrollment: 14,890 students (Fall 2024)
Location: Washington, D.C.
Undergraduate Tuition: ~$35,344 (same for all, private institution)

Howard University isn’t just another school—it’s “The Mecca,” the cultural heartbeat of Black excellence. With 14,890 students in 2024–25, Howard remains one of the Largest HBCUs in the nation.

From attracting top-tier talent to expanding housing and research facilities, HU is showing why it’s a global brand in higher ed. The Bison are building on legacy while making space for the next generation to shine.

3. Morgan State University — The Fastest Growing Among the Largest HBCUs

Enrollment: 10,739 students (Fall 2024)
Location: Baltimore, Maryland
Undergraduate Tuition: $2,849 per semester in‑state | $8,296.50 per semester out‑of‑state

Morgan State is making major moves. With 10,739 students, 2024 marked the biggest surge in its history—up 9.4% year-over-year. First-years, grad students, you name it—every lane is up.

Baltimore’s own MSU is pushing toward that R1 research designation while expanding campus space to match the vision. The Bears are letting the world know: the Morgan renaissance isn’t coming—it’s here.

4. Prairie View A&M University — Texas’ Largest HBCU

Enrollment: 9,893 students (Fall 2024)
Location: Prairie View, Texas
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,299 in‑state | $26,874 out‑of‑state

Everything’s bigger in Texas—including PVAMU’s growth. The Panthers set a new record with 9,893 students, cementing their spot as the Largest HBCU in Texas.

With standout programs in engineering, nursing, and agriculture, plus a strong focus on student success and retention, PV is proving why its influence stretches far beyond the Lone Star State.

5. Florida A&M University — Leading in the South

Enrollment: ~9,265 students (Academic Year 2023–24)
Undergraduate Tuition: $5,785 in‑state | $17,725 out‑of‑state
Location: Tallahassee, Florida

From the Marching 100 to producing the highest number of Black pharmacists in the nation, FAMU is iconic. With around 9,265 students in the most recent verified year, FAMU closes out our top five. New numbers are expected soon, but with fresh investments in facilities and academics, the Rattlers are only trending upward.

The Bigger Picture: Growth of the Largest HBCUs

Here’s the headline: while many colleges nationwide are shrinking, the Largest HBCUs are growing stronger. NC A&T and Morgan are smashing records, while Prairie View and FAMU keep building national momentum. The message is clear—when resources meet opportunity, greatness follows.

And let’s be real—this top five list doesn’t take away from the impact of other campuses. Schools like North Carolina Central, Texas Southern, Southern University, Jackson State, and Tennessee State continue to hold it down for their communities. We’ll keep celebrating as more schools drop their 2025 numbers.

Bottom line: the Largest HBCUs are rising higher than ever. From Greensboro to DC, Baltimore to Prairie View, and Tallahassee, these black colleges are shaping futures, shifting narratives, and keeping our culture thriving. One thing about the HBCU family—we celebrate each other’s wins. Because when one shines, we all shine. ✊🏾

References:

1. North Carolina A&T Achieves Record Enrollment with Historic 15,000+ Students | Diverse: Issues In Higher Education
2. Howard University – Common Data Set (2025)
3. Morgan State University Hits Historic Enrollment Milestone: 10,739 | HBCU Buzz
4. PVAMU Shatters Enrollment Record with New Student Support Initiative | PVAMU
5. Florida A&M University – Student Population and Demographics

Jessica Fraser used to dream of becoming a journalist, and when she studied communication in college she realized that her passion for writing could become her career. As a full time freelance writer, Jessica enjoys helping other teenagers, college students, and young adults pursue their passions and follow their dreams.