Allen University

Private · Moderately Selective · SC

Photo: Van Jones Martin (Public domain)

School data & stats

TypePrivate

LocationSC · South

SettingUrban

Undergrads576

Student:faculty12:1

Outcomes

4-yr grad rate6.8%

6-yr grad rate13.3%

Drop-out rate55%

Study abroad—

Cost

In-state tuition$14k

Out-of-state tuition$14k

Application fee—

Community

Racial diversity99.3%

Gender diversity43.9%

International1.6%

IdentityHBCU · African Methodist Episcopal

Overview

Allen University is a private historically Black university in Columbia, South Carolina, founded in 1870 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church. It holds a distinct place in HBCU history as one of the first colleges founded by African Americans themselves, rather than by white missionary societies or the state, and it remains small, faith-rooted, and closely tied to the AME Church.

Academics

The curriculum centers on the liberal arts alongside business and religion or theology, reflecting the school's AME Church ties. Classes are small, and ministry preparation sits alongside more conventional majors as a genuine academic track rather than an add-on.

Campus & student life

The campus is in Columbia, giving students access to a state capital while keeping a small, tight campus community. Chapel and AME Church-connected traditions are part of student life, and the school's identity as an African American-founded institution is something students and alumni take pride in.

Getting in

Admissions is access-oriented rather than highly selective, consistent with the school's founding mission, and looks for students who will engage with its faith-based, historically Black community.

Worth knowing

Allen's founding by African Americans themselves, rather than by outside missionaries, is a point of institutional identity distinct from many other HBCUs, and its AME Church affiliation remains active in campus religious life.

allenuniversity.edu ↗

Admissions

Acceptance rate72.5%

Enrolled mid-50%—

Test policynot used

Rec letters0

Deadlines (2026–27 cycle)

Applying