Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are institutions founded primarily for the education of African Americans, although their charters were not exclusionary. In 1907, African Americans rarely had other options for higher education except a historically black college or university. In 2008, HBCUs are still predominantly African American and thriving because these institutions are successfully educating and graduating African-American students. Although sometimes overlooked, HBCUs are an important option for high school students in the college search. These colleges offer benefits minority students may otherwise not receive. This article discusses the benefits offered by HBCUs for students who attend them. (Contains 4 tables.)