Hampton, Va (August 27, 2025) – While families nationwide face rising tuition costs and delays in financial aid, Hampton University recognizes these challenges and has met them with sympathy and resolve. Despite the national financial aid crisis, through enhanced processes, expanded scholarship opportunities, and a commitment to student support, Hampton found ways to address the problem head on while helping to make fall registration more accessible, seamless, and empowering for students and their families.
Scholarship Momentum: Merit Meets Mission
Nearly half (47%) of incoming freshmen will begin their studies backed by merit-based scholarships—ranging from $10,000 annually to full-ride awards covering tuition, room, board, fees, and books. This increasing emphasis on scholarship investment keeps Hampton competitively positioned in the national landscape, offering significant financial support that attracts top talent and signals institutional generosity.
Here are a few data points that offer a snapshot into Hampton’s incoming class:
Top five states represented in the class:
- Virginia
- Maryland
- New York
- Georgia
- New Jersey
The class is also made up of 67.7% females and 32.3% males. Additionally, Hampton’s world-class appeal has attracted students from across the globe to this “Home by the Sea.” The top countries represented include Belarus, Bermuda, Berma, Botswana, Egypt, Cameroon, France, and more.
Distinctive Standing in Affordability & Outcomes
Hampton’s tuition, at approximately $30,842, sits well below the national private university average of $47,890, offering tangible value to students—without compromising academic quality or reputation. U.S. News
Moreover, LinkedIn’s inaugural “Top Colleges” rankings have placed Hampton at No. 5 among 102 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—a recognition anchored in graduate outcomes, including job placement, internships, career leadership, network strength, and skill breadth. Hampton University Home
While broader U.S. News lists position Hampton at #273 among National Universities, the University also earns high marks in categories such as social mobility and regional value. U.S. NewsHampton University Home
Combined, these designations position Hampton as a best-value institution, delivering both affordability and proven pathways to success.
Proactive Approach Sets Hampton Apart
By working hard and diligently to try to ensure early aid delivery, investing in scholarships, and emphasizing measurable post-graduate success, Hampton has pushed back against a national crisis, striving to set students up for success on day one.
“As our year-over-year gains in aid processing and scholarships demonstrate, Hampton is constantly attempting to meet students where they are,” said President Darrell K. Williams. “We’re building bridges, ensuring students are financially prepared to register, enroll, and flourish.”
Delivering on Access, Outcomes, and Transformation
With strong alumni outcomes, including high rates of employment and graduate school placement, Hampton continues to deliver on its promise: a nationally ranked education that is both accessible and transformative.
Key Highlights:
- 9,914 federal aid applications processed (2025–2026)—marking continued growth in demand
- 94% of aid applicants among continuing students received packages before summer
- Nearly Half of Incoming Freshmen Awarded Merit Scholarships (49%)
- Tuition: $30,842—well below the national average of private institutions U.S. News
- No. 5 among HBCUs in LinkedIn’s Top Colleges for career outcomes Hampton University Home
- Ranked #273 overall among U.S. national universities by U.S. News U.S. News
Hampton University: A National Leader in Research, Innovation, and Opportunity
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution, nationally acclaimed for its pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and aerospace. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the region and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton stands as a powerful engine of innovation, workforce development, and inclusive economic growth.
Consistently recognized for academic excellence and transformative outcomes, Hampton ranks in the Top 10 HBCUs by U.S. News & World Report and was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and honored as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia Magazine.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a close-knit, vibrant community of scholars, representing nearly every state and 32 territories. With a legacy rooted in empowerment and education, the university is dedicated to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship, preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity in a rapidly evolving world. Learn more at: www.hamptonu.edu
For media inquiries, please contact Richelle Payne in the Office of University Relations at 757-727-5253 or richelle.payne@hamptonu.edu.
