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Honors College Essay: Tips, Prompt Examples and How to Write

Writing honors college essay

An honors college essay is an academic paper that students typically complete to establish entrance into an honors college, program, or division. An honors paper seeks to test students’ research skills and focus their analytical abilities on a subject of academic interest. 

Due to the specialized focus of the paper, students benefit from serious attention to the college essay topics, which are vital in developing the essay.

An Honors College essay is unique in terms of its requirements, structure, and background. The purpose of this article is to provide advice on writing and structuring an Honors College essay.

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Which Universities do Ask for Honors College Essay

1. uci (university of california irvine) .

The UCI has two programs, the Academic Honors Program and the Honors Program. Both are popular with many members. They are not mutually exclusive, but they have different requirements and different goals.

The Academic Honors Program is for students who want to get recognized by their professors for academic achievement. It does not require an essay but several letters of recommendation from faculty members.

You should not apply to either program if you are only interested in one or the other because there is no guarantee that either program will accept your application or that you will gain acceptance into either program.

2. VCU (Virginia Commonwealth University)

The applicants must complete the 500-word Essay on Honors. The essay should address the following topics:

• Your interests and goals, especially as they pertain to your intended major(s) and career path(s). How do you feel about being a lifelong learner?
• Your ideas about leadership, including h
• How you would define leadership, what your leadership style is, how you would use your abilities as a leader to positively impact your community in and out of college, and how you would lead if given the opportunity.

3. NJT (New Jersey Institute of Technology)

NJT requires you to write an essay and submit it along with your application.

These honors college essays usually focus on your intellectual interests and experiences, using specific examples to illustrate your points. It’s essential to select an area you are interested in and know about. 

You should also pick something that you can write about easily; it will be evident if you are writing a research paper or other academic work instead of an honors college essay, so don’t try to fake it!

4. Purdue University

Purdue University’s Honors College focuses on scholarship, leadership, research, and engagement by integrating residential and co-curricular learning opportunities with academic classroom experiences.

Your college application essay needs to breathe life into your application. It should capture your genuine personality, explaining who you are beyond a series of grades, test scores, and after-school activities. 

Take a minute and think about the college or university admission officers who will be reading your essay.

5. Stony Brook University

The Stony Brook Honors College provides an exceptional opportunity for students who want to pursue a challenging course of study in the company of talented peers. Your essay should be no longer than three double-spaced pages and should address certain questions.

It is an opportunity to explain an event that took place on any day in history; what would that event be? Discuss why you chose this particular day. Also, as this question, what do you hope to learn/experience by being present?

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How to Write a Good Honors College Essay

Honors college essays follow a formal style with a clear structure. To get your honors college essay, follow these tips:

• Think about the prompt and what you want to say.
• Brainstorm.
• Organize your thoughts into a logical outline.
• Write your introduction.
• End with a conclusion that sums up the main points of your argument and connects those points back to the prompt.

Technically, the honors college essay can be a five-paragraph essay, but it should be more than that.

It should be closer to a 10-paragraph essay, with an introduction and conclusion paragraph that are each about four or five sentences long.

The introduction and conclusion paragraphs should be about the same size. The middle of the essay should be about three paragraphs long, and each of them should be about four to five sentences long.

1. Introduction 

The introduction should have a hook which is a catchy sentence or two that gets the reader interested in reading your essay. Furthermore, it should have an explanation of why you want to go to Honors College: This is usually possible in one sentence. 

Also, there should be a thesis statement. This is usually evident in one sentence at the end of the paragraph. The thesis statement tells the reader what you plan to write about in your essay. For example: “I want to attend honors college because of their strong pre-med program.”

Write the body of your paper using transition words to connect your ideas and explain the connections between them.

The middle paragraphs should include an explanation of why you have chosen your career path and why you are interested. 

3. Conclusion

End with a strong conclusion that ties together everything you discussed within your paper, providing important takeaways for readers as well as leaving them feeling satisfied with what they just read.

Takeaways 

• You are writing an essay, not a text message. In other words, please use complete sentences and correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. If proper English is not your strong suit, enlist someone proficient at it to help edit your essay.
• Be specific about what you want to study and why. Do not just say that you want an education; tell the reader what kind of education you want and why. This is particularly important if you plan to study something that you did not find at your high school. 
• The readers do not expect you to know everything about the field you plan to enter. They expect that you give serious consideration to it and explain why you want to pursue it beyond the fact that “it sounds interesting” or “it pays well.”
• Proofread your essays before sending them in. Errors will distract from whatever else is in those essays and may give us a negative impression of your abilities.

Things to Remember about Honor Essays

The honors essay is one of your best chances to stand out in a meaningful way from other applicants, so be sure to invest time in crafting a great response.

The admission office is looking for the following:

• The office wants to know that you understand what makes the honors program special. We have a diverse group of students and faculty who are passionate about learning and interacting across disciplines.
• What do you think this will mean for you? How will you take advantage of being in an environment that values interdisciplinary thinking?
• Your accomplishments. Let the audience know your talents. Have you excelled academically? What leadership roles have you taken on, or awards have you won? They want to discover what drives your passion for learning, leadership, and service.
• Your plans for the future. The honors program will prepare you for success beyond your skills, whether that’s graduate school or medical school, or a career in a completely different field. 

People Also Read: NJHS Essay: How to Write a Winning Piece from Ideas to end

Examples of Honors College Essay Topics

• Considering your lifetime goals, explain how your present and future academic activities will assist you in achieving your goals. 
• Settle for an issue of importance to you, whether it is political, personal, local, or international related. Then, craft an essay to explain the significance of that issue to yourself, your community, and your generation. 

When not handling complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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How to Write the University at Buffalo Honors Essay 2023-2024

The State University of New York at Buffalo (University at Buffalo) is a public university located in Buffalo, New York. It boasts a large, suburban campus and consistently ranks in the top 100 national universities. 

When it comes to admissions, UB is moderately competitive. While there’s no supplement for all applicants, there is one for the Honors College. Here’s how to write a standout response to their prompt.

Want to know your chances at UB? Calculate your chances for free right now . 

UB Honors Supplemental Essay Prompt

Ub honors scholars are characterized by intellectual curiosity, a broad range of interests, and a commitment to a diverse and inclusive society. what experiences have helped to broaden your perspectives academically, socially and culturally what experiences do you hope to have that will enlarge your understanding of the cultural richness of america and the world please be as specific as possible in your answer. (650 words), understanding the prompt.

This prompt allows the admissions committee to get a sense of your values–and what you will contribute to the UB community. A prompt like this has no one “right answer”; your aim should be to find detailed, compelling examples that show : 

• Your understanding and appreciation of intellectual curiosity, diversity, and inclusivity
• What you will contribute to the UB Honors college community’s intellectually curious, diverse, and inclusive community

This means that the only “wrong” answer would be one that shows a lack of understanding of the values that the UB Honors College expressly prioritizes.

With this in mind, let’s take a minute to understand what each of these values means:

1. Intellectual curiosity

Most basically, intellectual curiosity means a desire to ask and answer questions—to learn. “Intellectual curiosity” is a broad enough term that it can fit many different kinds of people. For example:

• You can be intellectually curious by always having questions about everything you encounter in the world around you. Maybe you’re the person who is always eager to ask “why,” whether at a theater performance or in biology class.
• Or you can be intellectually curious by being passionate about a particular set of issues or questions. Maybe you care deeply about how humans can improve the standard of living of the poorest among us, and you are passionate about asking questions in many disciplines—economics, politics, agricultural sciences, sociology—to begin to solve this problem.

2. A broad range of interests

Though many programs encourage specialization (academically and professionally), the UB Honors College is not one such program. The honors college sees itself as a small liberal arts college within the large UB university. A liberal arts education fundamentally is centered on the idea of giving students a varied educational experience, exposing them to different areas of knowledge and inquiry. “A broad range of interests” does not have to mean that you’re interested in everything; it should, however, involve interests that go beyond one set professional or academic path. Consider these two cases:

• Narrow interests: Imagine that you are passionate about math and want to take as many math courses as possible and do as many math-related activities as possible, with the long-term goal of being an academic mathematician. If this is the case, you might not be a good fit for the Honors Program’s “broad range of interests.”
• Broad interests: Imagine that you are passionate about math (and plan to become a mathematician) but also want to understand history, economics, and the arts in order to be a more informed citizen. If you have these interests—and, ideally, a track record of participating in and exploring these non-math areas—then you might be a great fit for the Honors Program.

3. A diverse and inclusive society 

Diversity and inclusivity have become buzzwords; we all think that we know what they mean—and, to an extent, your understanding of these terms is probably right. Fundamentally, diversity and inclusivity have to do with valuing and celebrating the different backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences that come with being part of a multicultural, multi-religious, multiethnic society. Inclusivity places particular emphasis on finding ways to draw in and celebrate those who have historically been excluded from or oppressed by society. 

However, keep in mind that diversity and inclusivity can also have to do with:

• Economic diversity: Including students from different economic backgrounds in an intellectual community.
• Intellectual diversity: Including students with varied political or ideological beliefs in an intellectual community. 
• Geographic diversity within the US: Though international students provide the most vibrant and obvious diversity at many US Universities, students from under-represented areas of the US can also contribute to a school’s diversity. 

Choosing Past Experiences to Write About

The key part of the prompt asks: 

What experiences have helped to broaden your perspectives academically, socially and culturally? 

In an essay like this, it can be tempting to go for quantity over quantity—if you have many experiences that seem to fit the prompt, including as many of them as possible can seem like the right way to go. However, the strongest responses to a prompt like this will focus on just one or two (three at the most) related experience to weave a detailed, compelling picture of how your values fit with those of UB.

When writing about your experiences, your aim should be to show not tell . This means picking specific “moments” from each experience to bring the experience to life. Here’s a mini example:

Telling: During my exchange trip to Italy, I spent as much time as I could talking with the locals and learning about their cultural practices. 

Note that this is a very general summary of the writer’s experience; vivid details do not shine through, and the reader does not get much of a sense of what the writer saw, felt, or did. 

Showing: One morning, I looked up from my customary espresso to find a friendly, wrinkled face across the table from me. My new friend, patient with my imperfect Italian comprehension, told me stories about her farm where she had lived as a child, before poor economic conditions forced her family to sell their land and move to the city.

This little anecdote puts the reader “in the moment”; it clearly conveys that the writer spoke with locals and learned their stories, but it does so through one engaging story, rather than through general summary.

With this point in mind (about “showing not telling”), consider these examples of experiences someone might write about. They demonstrate the variety of experiences that could fit this part of the essay prompt:

A student who did an exchange trip to Japan and also worked at a Mexican restaurant could write about these two very different experiences. 

• The student could pick a “moment” from their experience in Japan that shows how they encountered different academic and social norms in Japan.
• Then, they could describe different specific aspects of their work in a Mexican restaurant, showing what they learned about food and culture. 
• Zooming out, the student could give examples of how these experiences have helped them connect with those who are different from them in their daily life. 

A student whose parents got divorced while she was in middle school could write about this experience and about how, around the same time, she began volunteering at a nursing home in her community. 

• Using vivid, detailed “moments” (for example, a specific moment when she could not focus), the student could explain how her parents’ divorce was socially and academically difficult for her, since it distracted her from friends and school. 
• Then, she could show how this experience motivated her to develop specific new study habits and social skills, and to volunteer at the local nursing home. 
• Next, the student could describe how this volunteering experience exposed her to elderly people of varied cultural and economic backgrounds, allowing her to put aside her own personal turmoil and focus on listening and learning. The writer could pick one or two specific friends from the nursing home to write about in detail.

Choosing Future Experience to Write About

The second part of the prompt asks:

What experiences do you hope to have that will enlarge your understanding of the cultural richness of America and the world? 

This is what we call a “forward-looking” question. By asking both this question and one about your past experiences, the admissions committee is trying to understand not only who you are now, but how your past experiences have shaped your future goals. 

This part of the prompt is a key place to pivot to think specifically about the Honors College and your goals for college. In other words, college is a great time to enlarge your understanding of the country or world’s cultural richness. Here, your goal should be to still stay specific and to create continuity between the past- and forward-looking parts of your essay. 

What to Avoid

Writing about very vague or generic experiences (meeting other students, talking with your peers)

Engaging with other students in college is a critical and fruitful part of the college experience; however, you should do your best to identify a forum for engagement that will show the specificity and sincerity of your hopes. This could mean extracurriculars, discussion groups, or even just shared, informal activities like cooking or game nights.

Writing about the exact same experiences that you’ve already had

If you’ve done an exchange in Japan in high school, writing that you want to go back through a similar program in college will likely not show growth or a desire to push your understanding further.

However, you could instead write about how you want to pursue an internship in Japan or go there for research or another experience that is meaningfully different (presumably more in-depth) than the experiences you’ve already had.

Writing about experiences just because they seem “impressive”

Many college applicants feel pressure to express interest in activities that are competitive or come with high prestige. However, a prompt like this one is all about understanding your values and how you connect with other people. This means your priority should be authenticity. 

For example, you have not demonstrated any interest in Model UN or international relations more generally, it would not feel cohesive if you wrote about how you plan to broaden your cultural perspective by joining Model UN in college (unless you are able to come up with a compelling, personal reason for branching out into this entirely new field). 

Aside from these common pitfalls, there is, again, no one “right” way to answer this prompt. However, here are two ways that the examples above could answer the second question in the prompt:

• The student who wrote about his experiences in Japan and working in a Mexican restaurant could write about how he hopes to get involved in the UB Honors College’s international cafe, which exposes students to food and practice from different cultures. 
• He could also write about how he hopes to travel back to Japan to learn more about Japanese culinary traditions, which were not his focus during his first (academically-focused) visit.
• The student who wrote about her parents’ divorce and her work in a nursing home could write about how she hopes to study different models for caring for the aging in different cultures.
• The writer could explain how her experiences have showed her that how a society treats its oldest citizens offers key insight into social and cultural values and norms. 
• She could cite specific UB courses and resources opportunities that would allow her to study this topic, such as the Gerontology minor, which focuses on the study of aging.

Where to Get Your UB Essay Edited

Do you want feedback on your UB essay? After rereading your essays countless times, it can be difficult to evaluate your writing objectively. That’s why we created our free Peer Essay Review tool , where you can get a free review of your essay from another student. You can also improve your own writing skills by reviewing other students’ essays. 

If you want a college admissions expert to review your essay, advisors on CollegeVine have helped students refine their writing and submit successful applications to top schools.  Find the right advisor for you  to improve your chances of getting into your dream school!

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• Essay Guide

Essay: In 500 to 600 words, write about  one  of the topics below.*

*An essay can tell us things about you beyond your academic background of grades, test scores, and courses taken in high school and/or college. Please consider this when choosing your essay prompt.

1) “I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.” – Albert Einstein

Write about an experience or social/political issue that has piqued your curiosity. What questions has this subject inspired you to answer? What actions have you taken to become more knowledgeable about the subject? What strategies have you used to address answers that you find unsatisfying?

2) Writing, painting, performing, debating, and designing solutions to complex equations are only a few of the media through which people convey their thoughts, emotions, and aspirations. How do you express the inner workings of your mind to the larger world? How does the world around you respond?

Tips for Completing Your Honors Essay

• Length: Approximately 500 to 600 words
• Your essay will be assessed on content as well as form (spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure). Take care when writing your essay; be sure to edit and proofread before you submit. It is an important element of your application to Honors.
• Make sure that you have actually answered the essay question. Your essay will be evaluated on your ability to express your thoughts clearly and think creatively and critically. Write your essay in a word processing program (e.g. Microsoft Word) and save it as a PDF document to submit as part of the Honors application.
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70+ Academic Honors Examples for Your College Application

College applications are all about showing off to the admissions committee, and what better way to do so than to lead with your most impressive academic awards.   What are the best academic honors and awards to put on a college application?

In this guide, we give you 7 0+ academic honors examples to give you an idea of what types of achievements colleges like to see most on applications.   In addition, we explain what counts as an academic honor or award, go over different impressive academic honors and awards examples you can get, and give you useful tips for effectively talking about awards on your application.

What Is an Academic Honor or Award?

First things first, what counts as an academic honor or award?

Generally speaking, an academic honor or award is any major achievement you’ve made and been recognized for in some way.   The form of recognition can range from an actual object, such as a trophy or plaque, to prize money, a title, or verbal recognition.

Typically, an academic honor will fall into one of the following categories:

• Distinction, honor, or honorable mention  for which you won’t usually receive a physical object or award—just the title
• A diploma or certificate indicating the completion of a program or recognizing an accomplishment in a program or other activity
• Prize or award won from a contest, competition, or tournament
• Scholarship given in recognition of an outstanding (academic) accomplishment
• Membership in a highly selective and competitive group or society

If you’ve won any awards for specific activities such as a sport you play or a club you’re part of, it’s better to list these in the extracurricular activities section of your application instead of in a separate awards section.

So what are some honors and awards to put on a college application? Up next, we'll take a look at more than 70 academic honors examples.

Academic Honors and Awards Examples

Here, we give you a list of 70+ academic honors and awards examples you could include on your own college application, from prizes won in national and international contests to school-based distinctions and awards.

All the academic honors examples below are grouped by category and listed alphabetically.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of all academic honors and awards you could possibly have, so if you have an achievement that doesn’t exactly match one of the examples below, don’t worry—you can still put it on your college application!

Advanced Placement (AP) Awards

• AP International Diploma (APID)
• AP Scholar with Distinction
• AP Scholar with Honor
• DoDEA AP Scholar
• International AP Scholar
• National AP Scholar
• State AP Scholar
• IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) Certificate

National Awards

• Governor’s Volunteer Award
• National Student Volunteer Award
• President’s Award for Educational Achievement
• President’s Award for Educational Excellence
• President’s National Service Award

PSAT Awards

• National Hispanic Scholar
• National Merit Commended Student
• National Merit Finalist
• National Merit Scholar
• National Merit Semifinalist
• School-based National Merit Scholarship winner

School-Based Awards

• Foreign language award
• High class rank (e.g., top 10%)
• Honor roll/GPA award
• National Honor Society membership
• Perfect Attendance Award
• School-specific award
• School subject-specific award
• Student of the Month/Term/Year
• Subject-specific Honor Society membership (e.g., Science Honor Society)

Competitions and Contests

• AAN Neuroscience Research Prize
• Academic Decathlon
• Academic Triathlon
• American Regions Mathematics League (ARML)
• B.E.S.T. Robotics Design contest
• Conrad Spirit of Innovation Challenge
• Davidson Fellows Scholarship
• Doodle 4 Google
• Google Science Fair
• Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
• International BioGENEius Challenge
• International Chemistry Olympiad
• International Mathematical Olympiad
• International Photography Awards (IPA)
• Kids Philosophy Slam
• Microsoft Imagine Cup
• MIT INSPIRE
• MIT THINK Scholars Program
• National Academic League
• National Academic Quiz Tournament
• National Economics Challenge by CEE
• National Geographic Bee
• National Geographic Student Photo Contest
• National High School Mock Trial Championship
• National Science Bowl
• National Science Olympiad
• PhysicsBowl
• Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)
• Regional/National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
• Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
• Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Awards
• University Interscholastic League (UIL)

Miscellaneous Awards

• Boy Scouts/Eagle Scouts awards
• Employee of the Month
• Girl Scouts awards
• Merit scholarships for college
• Musical performance award
• National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) winner
• National Poetry Writing Month (NaPoWriMo) winner
• Publications (such as short stories, art pieces, essays, etc.)
• Volunteer award
• Work award or promotion

The Best Honors and Awards to Put on a College Application

Of the dozens of academic honors examples above, which ones will look the most impressive on a college application?  Here, we explain the top four qualities a truly impressive academic honor will have. 

Note that an honor doesn’t need to have all  these qualities, though if it does, then it is definitely an excellent one to put on your application!

#1: It’s Highly Selective

One quality you want to highlight on your application is the selectivity of the award or honor you’ve won.  In other words, the academic award will be one that a lot of students try to win, making it difficult to achieve.

For example, because national and international contests and competitions draw so many student competitors, winning an award like these would certainly impress the admissions committee.

The more selective an academic honor or award is, the more impressive it’ll look on your college application.

Academic Honors Examples of Highly Selective Awards

• Google Science Fair winner

#2: It’s Unique

Admissions committees see a lot of honor roll and National Society honors on college applications (not that these are bad — they’re just fairly common). So if you've won a particularly unique or rare award, definitely include it on your application, as this will  help you stand out from the crowd.

A unique award can be highly selective; it can also be one that is less well known or that highlights something creative, surprising, or impressive about you.

For instance, maybe you won the Most Innovative Employee award at your part-time job after you pitched the idea to create and manage a social media page for the company.

Academic Honors Examples of Unique Awards

• Specific school-based awards (e.g., Most Confident Speaker in Chinese Class)
• Local or community-based awards 

#3: It’s Relevant to Your Academic Interests and Strengths

Another academic award or honor that's  great to include on your college application is one that’s relevant to your academic interests and strengths.  These are typically subject- or field-specific awards, such as English or writing awards, math awards, etc.

For example, if you’re planning to major in engineering, you'd want to detail any awards you might have won in science, math, or engineering contests.

Relevant awards indicate to the admissions committee not only that you’re truly committed to the field you want to study, but also that you’re one of the most promising students in your field.

Academic Honors Examples of Relevant Awards

• Writing award or publication (if you’re an English or creative writing major, for example)
• STEM award (if you’re a STEM major)
• Model UN (if you’re a political science or IR major, for example)

#4: It Highlights Your Leadership Potential

An impressive academic honor or award will also emphasize your leadership potential.  These are typically   awards that involve group or collaborative work.  S o if you ever led others to success — as a captain or president, for instance — this kind of honor would look great to potential colleges.

Just make sure that you explain on your application what kind of role you had and how your leadership specifically led your team to success.

Academic Honors Examples of Leadership/Group Awards

• Volunteer awards
• Girl Scouts or Eagle Scouts awards

How to Talk About Honors on Your College Application: 4 Tips

Since you likely won’t have a lot of room to write about academic honors and awards on your application, it's important that   you present your academic achievements in an effective, impressive way.  Here are some tips on how to talk about the awards you've won.

Tip 1: Open With Your Most Impressive Awards

Admissions officers don’t usually spend a lot of time with each application they get, so you want to make sure that you’re catching their eyes right away by starting with your most impressive honors and awards.  These will generally be awards that are highly competitive and required a lot of work and commitment on your end.

Tip 2: Focus on Your Spike

A "spike" is a particular academic passion you have.   For example, if you’re a science buff who plans to major in chemistry, you'd want to emphasize your spike on your application by focusing primarily on your chemistry- and science-related activities and awards.

Having a spike will ultimately help you stand out from other applicants.  To learn more about how you can develop a spike, check out our guide on how to get into Harvard and the Ivy League .

Tip 3: Describe Awards That Are Vague or Unclear

Not all academic awards and honors are well known or obvious, especially if they’re unique to your school or area. Therefore, m ake sure that you’re using the space you have in the awards section of your application to describe any academic honors that the admissions committee is probably unfamiliar with.

The last thing you want an award to do is confuse admissions officers, so be clear about what it is, how you won it, and what makes it impressive.

Tip 4: Explain the Competitiveness of the Award

For each academic award or honor you’ve won, you want to clarify its level of competitiveness by explaining the scope of the competition.  For example, was the science tournament you won a national one? A local one? A school-based one?

Note that if the award has the word "national" or "international" in it, you shouldn’t have to add much explanation to its description since it'll be obvious that the award is fairly selective.

The overall point here is to show off!

Recap: Honors and Awards to Put on a College Application

As you can see, there's a huge variety in the types of academic honors and awards examples you can put on your college application. The 70+ academic honors examples listed above are just some of the possible honors you could include.

In general, the best academic honors to include on your application will have some or all of the following qualities:

• They’re highly selective/competitive
• They’re unique
• They highlight your academic interests and strengths (your "spike," that is)
• They emphasize your leadership skills/potential

You won’t have a ton of space on your application to explain the academic awards you’ve won, so it’s important to use the room you have wisely. To reiterate, h ere are our four best tips for how to talk about your academic awards and honors on your application:

• Open with your most impressive awards and honors
• Focus on your spike —i.e.,  your biggest academic passion and commitment
• Describe any vague, unclear, or lesser-known awards/honors you've received
• Explain the competitiveness of the award

Now get out there and win some awards!

What’s Next?

Lots of colleges use the Common App . If you're going to be using this platform to apply to college, make sure you know what to expect with the Common App honors section .

Planning to take AP tests in the spring? If you're hoping to snag a distinguished AP award , read our guide to get tips on how you can do this.

Honors can prove that you're a serious and ambitious college applicant.  Check out our expert guide to learn what high school honors is and how you can achieve honors status at your own high school.

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Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.

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Clark honors college menu, clark honors college, how to apply.

Thank you for your interest in the Clark Honors College! Applying is simple. Here's a  checklist to stay on track and you can also follow the application timeline .

Essay Tips & Prompt

AP, IB & Transfer Credits

Transfer Students

What We Look For

We seek bright, thoughtful, and academically motivated individuals to bring diversity to our community of scholars.

There are no minimum requirements for admission to the Clark Honors College. We do not believe that your past success, and potential future accomplishments, can be embodied in a test score—which is why we conduct a holistic portfolio review for each applicant. 

Each application is evaluated to establish its strength with respect to:

• Creative Potential : Creativity and critical thinking
• Academic Performance : The extent to which you have challenged yourself by taking diverse and rigorous courses in high school
• Potential Contribution : The ways in which you have contributed to your family and your community

Typical Clark Honors College Incoming Students

Application checklist.

Apply to the University of Oregon.

Choose either the Oregon Application  or the Common Application . The requirements are the same, and your application will be treated no differently regardless of which option you choose. Official transcripts are required only when a student is admitted to the UO and accepts admission. On your application, you will self-report your high school academic record.

Write your Clark Honors College Essay.

The formal essay is an important component of your application to the Clark Honors College. Think ahead on this one. Read our Essay Tips & Prompt .  

Optional: Send test scores.

Test scores, including SAT and ACT, are optional. If you choose to submit, send these directly to the UO as part of your application.  

Application Timeline

Early action: application due.

This deadline is universal, whether you choose the Oregon Application or the Common Application.

november 15

EARLY ACTION: Supporting Documents Due

If you choose to send test scores or an official high school transcript prior to acceptance, those are considered supporting documents. 

December 15

EARLY ACTION: Notifications Sent

To check the status of your application, visit your  Application Status Portal .

REGULAR DECISION: Application Due

February 15

REGULAR DECISION: Supporting Documents Due

Regular decision: notifications sent.

Have Questions?

We've got answers. Read the Frequently Asked Questions about admission to Clark Honors College. You can also email us at  [email protected]  or call 541-346-7600.

Admissions FAQ

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Questions & Tips

Access the application.

To access the Honors College application, log into your  goBAYLOR account . Scroll towards the bottom of the page. Under "Academic Program Information," click "Apply to the Honors College" and follow the instructions.

Honors College Application Questions

After you apply to Baylor, you may submit responses to these Honors College supplement questions in your goBAYLOR account. Consider preparing your answers to these questions ahead of time. Departments will thoroughly review your responses, with emphasis placed on question number one below.

• A highlight of the University Scholars program is the opportunity to design your own course of study. If you could create your own curriculum, what areas of study would be included and why?  Suggested Length: 100 Words
• Describe a cultural experience you have had and explain how it impacted you. This could be through travel, class, relationships, etc.  Suggested length: 250-300 words  
• Describe any important honors or awards you earned in high school; focus especially on any that relate to your interest in research and/or in study connecting different academic subjects.  150 word limit

Application Tips

The Honors College seeks academically driven and ambitious students, utilizing a holistic student review process and considering all application materials that are available. Students are welcome to apply test-optional to Baylor University and the Honors College. The Honors College welcomes all applicants, regardless of whether or not students submit test scores.  Learn more about Baylor's test-optional process via Baylor admissions.

Remember to select “Save for Later” if you have not completed your application. Otherwise, the information will be lost. To ensure that you are prepared to complete the application,  review the essay questions below. You can compose your answers ahead of time and copy and paste them into the application later.

• You can apply to and participate in more than one Honors College program/major. In the Honors College portion of the goBAYLOR application, students should select all programs/majors of interest.  If, at a later time, the student wishes to apply to another program, simply login to  goBAYLOR  to select the additional programs/majors of interest. The Great Text major does not require an application; you may simply select this as your major in your goBAYLOR account.
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Purdue Supplemental Essay 2022-2023

Purdue supplemental essay: quick facts.

• Purdue University acceptance rate: 67%— U.S. News ranks Purdue as a more selective school.
• Purdue application: Purdue only accepts the Common Application , not the Coalition Application.
• 2 (100-word) required essays
• 2 (500-word) Purdue Honors College essays (required if applying to the Honors College)
• Purdue Essay Tip: We recommend answering both Purdue University supplemental essays comprehensively and thoughtfully, highlighting in each of your Purdue essays why Purdue is the perfect school for you.

What are Purdue University’s essays?

In addition to the Common App essay , students must also complete the Purdue supplemental essay prompts. 

Required Purdue supplemental essay prompts:

• How will opportunities at Purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom? (100 words)
• Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (100 words)

Required Purdue supplemental essay prompts for Honors College applicants are:

• One Purdue supplemental essay about your vision for your honors experience at Purdue (500 words)
• An additional Purdue supplemental essay about the interdisciplinary nature of your chosen field of study (500 words)

These Purdue application essays represent the final step in the Purdue application process. Strong responses to the Purdue supplemental essays can help your Purdue application stand out among the almost 60,000 applications the university receives each year.

So, if you want to get into Purdue, it’s important to spend time on your responses to the Purdue essay prompts. A solid set of Purdue application essays can make a major difference in the Purdue admissions process.

In this guide, we’ll break down each of the Purdue essay prompts and provide expert tips on how to make sure your Purdue application essays shine. Keep reading to learn how to approach your Purdue University supplemental essays!

Purdue application essay requirements

Many selective colleges require supplemental essays beyond the standard Common App essay, also known as the Personal Statement . The Purdue application requirements are no exception to this. 

There are two Purdue essay prompts required of all applicants. Additionally, Honors College applicants must complete two additional Purdue University supplemental essays. Pay close attention to which Purdue supplemental essays you should complete, as it varies by program. 

So, if you are applying to Purdue University, you must complete at least two 100-word Purdue essay prompts. Each Purdue supplemental essay is designed to give you a chance to show Purdue admissions officers who you are, beyond the rest of your application. You should treat each Purdue supplemental essay as an opportunity to showcase a part of yourself that isn’t highlighted elsewhere within the Purdue application requirements.

Honors College essay requirements

Like many schools, Purdue has additional requirements for the Purdue Honors College. If you apply to the Purdue John Martinson Honors College, you must complete two more 500-word Purdue Honors College essays. These additional prompts help Purdue Admissions ensure that Purdue Honors College applicants go above and beyond the typical Purdue application requirements. 

You should be sure to set aside more than enough time to craft strong Purdue Honors College essays and Purdue supplemental essays.

Purdue Supplemental Essay- Prompt 1 ( Required )

How will opportunities at purdue support your interests, both in and out of the classroom (100 words maximum).

The first Purdue essay asks applicants to reflect on their academic and personal interests. Then, it asks them to explain how Purdue will help them pursue those interests. In other words, the first of the Purdue essay prompts asks why you want to attend Purdue over any other school. 

You’ve probably encountered similar “why this college?” essay prompts on other applications. So, as you might expect, this Purdue application essay must be specific to Purdue. You won’t be able to copy and paste another school’s essay to answer this Purdue supplemental essay. 

Brainstorming your topic

Before starting to write this Purdue supplemental essay, think about your interest in Purdue. Write down a list of reasons why Purdue made your college list. Does Purdue offer a particular program that interests you? Or does Purdue’s campus culture fit your vision for your college experience? The best responses to the Purdue essay prompts will include specific details.

Building your narrative

Once you have created your list of interests, identify several that you would like to write about in your Purdue supplemental essays. This Purdue supplemental essay doesn’t give you much space; picking one or two interests, therefore, will help you stay within the word count and give your essay some structure. 

When deciding which interests to focus on, remember your other Purdue essay. You can discuss your intended major in the second of the required Purdue essay prompts. With this in mind, make sure you don’t delve into topics better suited for other Purdue essay prompts. Instead, use this Purdue supplemental essay to talk about interests that you have not discussed in other areas of your application. After all, you want each Purdue supplemental essay to showcase a different part of your identity.

Making it specific

Next, research Purdue to see how your interests overlap with opportunities Purdue offers. The Purdue essay prompts are a chance to show off the research you’ve done; for example, talking to Purdue admissions representatives or visiting campus. If any of these interactions relate to one of your chosen themes, mention them in this Purdue supplemental essay. This shows your knowledge of Purdue’s strengths as a university. 

For example, a prospective student could use this Purdue application essay to discuss the state-of-the-art kinesiology labs she visited and how they would help her pursue her interest in physical therapy. Make sure you discuss what you experienced along with how it relates to your interests. Once again, the best Purdue University supplemental essays will use specific details to show why you belong at Purdue.

Writing your essay

Now that you’ve done the brainstorming and research for this Purdue supplemental essay, you can start writing. Because you only have 100 words for this Purdue supplemental essay, you need to make each one count. Avoid unrelated topics, vague wording, and forms of “to be.” Instead, use clear language and strong action verbs in each Purdue essay. Compare these two sentences below:

“There is no school that is a better fit to support my interests than Purdue University.” (16 words)

“Purdue possesses the resources to support my interests.” (8 words)

The second sentence conveys the same message as the first, but it uses much stronger language and fewer words. Specific details and short, powerful sentences will help your Purdue essay stand out. 

Purdue Supplemental Essay Reflection Questions:

• Does your Purdue essay refer to 2-3 strong interests from your list?
• Do you present information not found in other areas of your application?
• Does your Purdue supplemental essay contain specific information about Purdue based on your research?
• Do you clearly explain to Purdue admissions how Purdue will help you pursue your interests?

Purdue Supplemental Essay — Prompt 2 ( Required )

Briefly discuss your reasons for pursuing the major you have selected. (100 words maximum).

The second of the Purdue supplemental essays is the typical “why major essay.” The “why major essay” is a common supplemental essay question that many schools require. Purdue is no different—they want to understand why you aim to pursue the field you’ve indicated on your application. 

The reality of the “why major essay” question is that schools want to know you’ve done your research on their programs. As a result of this, your “why major essay” for each school must relate to that school’s unique offerings. While you can include some general details, you should make sure this essay remains school-specific. 

Not all students know what they plan to major in. Choosing your college major is a big decision, and it requires plenty of forethought. This Purdue supplemental essay can be especially daunting if you’re unsure of your major, so let’s explore how to get around that. 

Brainstorming your major

Before starting to write this “why major essay,” think about the school subjects you enjoy. You may already identify as a lover of math or know you have the most fun in English class. However, Purdue University offers more than 200 different undergraduate majors across their 11 different colleges, so check the full list for options. This research will also help you show demonstrated interest in this Purdue supplemental essay.

When selecting a major for this Purdue application essay, think about the career you might want to pursue. You might consider the topics you have liked learning about, both inside and outside the classroom. If you’re having trouble selecting one major for this Purdue supplemental essay, choose the major you have the most compelling reasons to pursue.

Selecting a field of study for this Purdue supplemental essay might feel daunting. However, don’t be stressed about choosing a major. Instead, as you write your Purdue supplemental essay, focus on showing your intellectual curiosity and engagement with your studies. You can always change your major once you arrive on campus.

Using details

In order to write the best essay possible, include experiences that have made the biggest impact on your academic career. Have you had a teacher who drove you to explore more about their subject? Have you had work or volunteer experience that inspired you to pursue a particular major? Do you have a burning passion to support a specific cause? 

Your Purdue application essay should tell a story. So, highlight stories where you’ve engaged deeply with your chosen subject, whether directly or indirectly. In doing so, you’ll help readers understand why your chosen major excites you. This can help your Purdue supplemental essay showcase your intellectual curiosity.

Whatever major you choose, don’t just discuss the basic reasons why you enjoy it in this Purdue essay. Instead, go deeper. Think of this Purdue essay as a short narrative where you share moments in your life that have influenced you. A student who wants to major in electrical engineering might talk about getting a circuitry kit for Christmas and watching his dad repair wires around the house. She might then share how she helped the school robotics club win a competition. Find those formative moments in your life and use them as the foundation of your Purdue supplemental essay. Again, the best Purdue supplemental essay will be the most specific!

• Does your Purdue essay focus on the major that most interests you?
• Do you use specific details about how you came to love that major?
• Does your Purdue supplemental essay help your reader learn something new about you?

Purdue Honors College Essay Requirements

The Purdue Honors College is a separate program within Purdue University specifically designed for high-achieving students. Recently, the Purdue Honors College became formally known as the John Martinson Honors College. According to their website , “Martinson supports new programmatic initiatives which promote undergraduate research, scholarship and creative activity, leadership and professional development, global and community engagement, and innovative pedagogies.” 

You should research the Purdue Honors College thoroughly before deciding if you want to apply. Once you make the decision that the Purdue Honors College is right for you, it’s time to crack down on the Purdue Honors College essays.

The Purdue Honors College supplemental essay requirements are:

• 1 (500-word) Purdue supplemental essay about your vision for your honors experience at Purdue
• 1 (500-word) Purdue essay prompt about the interdisciplinary nature of your chosen field of study

Now, let’s break down each of the Purdue supplemental essays for the Purdue Honors College and talk about strategies to tackle each one. 

For more help on writing supplemental essays, click here . For help standing out in the college admissions process, read this article .

Purdue Honors College Essays- Question 1 

Explain your vision, ideas, or goals for how you hope to shape your honors experience while at purdue. please put this in the context of the four pillars which are the foundation of the john martinson honors college. (500 word maximum).

In order to answer the first of the Honors College Purdue essay prompts effectively, you need to reflect on your reasons for applying to the Honors College. Then, you need to connect those reasons to the four pillars that express the Honors College’s values. The best Purdue application essays will directly connect an applicant’s academic goals with the four pillars of the Purdue Honors College.

Understanding Purdue

Before starting this Purdue supplemental essay, you need to have a firm understanding of the four pillars mentioned in the prompt. These pillars are: community and global engagement, undergraduate research, leadership development, and interdisciplinary academics. Reviewing the Honors College mission statement will give you more information about the four pillars. You do not need to reference all four of these pillars in your Purdue essay; instead, focus on whichever ones best fit with your future plans.

Researching the Honors College beyond the four pillars can also help strengthen your Purdue supplemental essay. Start by browsing this year’s Honors College course list . Review some of the research projects done by past Honors students. As you brainstorm for your Purdue admissions essays, look for programs and projects that connect to your interests. You might see a course or research project that lines up with one of your passions. You can use that as evidence in your Purdue essay that the Honors College will provide an ideal learning environment to nurture your interests.

Making it about you

This Purdue essay prompt asks you to imagine how you would spend your time as a Purdue Honors student. That future will likely be rooted in your past experiences. Strong Purdue application essays, therefore, should use the four pillars of Purdue Honors to connect your past experiences to your future at Purdue. 

When you talk about your future, try to be as specific as possible. For instance, saying that you want to travel to India to study their culture is not as powerful as saying that you want to travel to India to research how native fashions have changed due to modern technology in this Purdue essay.

You can begin brainstorming for this Purdue supplemental essay by doing a fr e e-write based on this prompt: “If I could have any academic experience I want in college, what would it be?” Think about the questions you might explore or problems you would like to solve if you had the freedom to choose. Don’t limit yourself—the best way to start writing is to free yourself from any perfectionism. 

Use this Purdue admissions essay to share the subject that you could stay up all night researching or the idea you cannot get out of your head. Let your ambition come across in your writing, using the four pillars of the Honors College as the foundation for achieving your goals. Finally, help your reader envision how you would contribute to the Honors College in this Purdue supplemental essay.

• Does your Purdue essay clearly describe your goals for attending the Honors College?
• Do you include references to at least one of the four pillars of the Honors College?
• Does your Purdue supplemental essay indicate specific projects you might undertake or resources you might use as an Honors student?

Purdue Honors College Essays — Question 2

Please describe the interdisciplinary nature of your chosen field of study and how it complements or supports other fields. (examples: you might describe how your work in a liberal arts career may impact or inform the work of an engineer.) (500 word maximum).

The second of the Purdue application essays asks how your chosen subject connects to other fields. At first, this Purdue essay can seem daunting. After all, most high school classes are separated by subject without much room for interdisciplinary work. However, with a little creative thinking, you can develop relationships between just about any set of subjects and use those relationships to write a strong Purdue essay.

Finding an intersection

To get you started, here are a few examples of interdisciplinary study that would make good material for Purdue application essays:

• Creating a business plan for a health care clinic combines medicine with economics
• Volunteering at a music therapy provider combines Psychology and Music into an interdisciplinary field grounded in helping those with mental illnesses
• A project about the evolution of manufacturing technology combines history with engineering

These example topics for a Purdue supplemental essay represent a tiny fraction of the ways you could answer this prompt. Each of these potential Purdue application essays could also tie in with some of your activities from high school. 

You might also use your Purdue essay to consider what you have learned working with people who have different interests than yours and how you could bring that knowledge to your studies. Strong Purdue admissions essays can come from anywhere, so don’t limit yourself. 

Getting creative

If you struggle to form connections between academic fields based on your personal experience, you can use your imagination to come up with hypothetical situations that might foster collaboration across fields. These imaginary situations can still make for a great Purdue supplemental essay. 

For instance, as a lover of computer science, you might imagine its applications in the world of digital art to create vivid settings for a video game. The best Purdue supplemental essays will be unique and creative. Additionally, strong Purdue application essays will tell a story. The more you can use narratives to illustrate the wide range of uses for your discipline, the more successful your Purdue admissions essay will be.

Essays Reflection Questions for Purdue Honors College :

• Does your Purdue supplemental essay demonstrate your enthusiasm for your chosen field?
• Do you include a variety of possible connections between your chosen fields and other fields?
• Does your Purdue admissions essay use stories and examples to illustrate the connections between fields?

Want more helpful tips on how to approach your Purdue supplemental essays and other aspects of Purdue University’s application process? Check out this video below from Purdue’s senior assistant director of admissions! 

What does Purdue University look for in essays?

Your Purdue supplemental essays help the admissions team get to know you beyond your demographics, transcript, and activities list. Each Purdue essay also provides valuable insight into what kind of student you would be.

These specific Purdue essay prompts help the Purdue admissions committee understand how you will use your education at Purdue. Purdue looks for students who can articulate their interests and describe how Purdue’s resources will help them pursue these interests. Your Purdue application essays, then, should show the Purdue admissions team how Purdue would help you meet your goals.

Demonstrated Interest

The committee wants to see you show demonstrated interest (DI) in Purdue. DI is a gauge that universities use to determine how interested a student is in attending their school. To take advantage of this, use your Purdue application essays to explain exactly what about Purdue interests you. You don’t need to physically visit the campus to write strong Purdue supplemental essays. However, if you don’t visit , it helps to find other ways of showing your interest. These include contacting admissions officers, reviewing the school’s website, or attending a virtual information session/webinar.

The Purdue admissions team also wants to know if you can write clearly and concisely—an important skill for succeeding in college. So, ensure your writing is strong, clear, and free of any errors. Your Purdue application essays also show your attention to detail and passion for learning. Students who use the Purdue essay prompts to showcase their passions will definitely impress the admissions team.

How do I get into Purdue University?

Getting accepted into Purdue starts with filling out the Common Application and meeting the Purdue application requirements. On the Common Application, you will report your GPA, list your high school activities, and write a 250-650 word Common App essay. 

For the fall and spring of 2023, Purdue is test flexible . This means if you have the opportunity to take the SAT or ACT, Purdue admissions would prefer you do. This is different from test optional because test optional schools truly have no preference for test scores. Purdue, however, makes it clear that they would like to review test scores as part of your application if possible. Strong scores will only enhance your application . 

Purdue application requirements

Your GPA , course schedule, test scores, Common App essay, letters of recommendation , supplemental essays, and extracurricular activities comprise the Purdue application requirements and will all factor into the committee’s decision.

Last year, approximately 60,000 students applied to Purdue University. The median GPA range of accepted applicants was 3.5-3.9, the median SAT was 119-1410, and the median ACT was 26-33. As you can see, Purdue admits students with high scores, which contributes to the U.S. News Purdue University ranking.

Purdue University Application

In 2022, U.S. News assigned its Purdue University ranking among national universities at #51 overall. US News also named Purdue as one of the Top 10 most innovative universities in the last four years. Among public universities , the Purdue University ranking is #18 in the country. Purdue University’s top academic programs include Aerospace Engineering (where the Purdue University ranking is #5) and Biological/Agricultural Engineering (where the Purdue University ranking is #2). This makes Purdue a great fit for students specifically interested in those fields.

Finally, the Purdue University ranking attracts many applicants who view Purdue’s rankings as a sign of prestige. This means that Purdue supplemental essays will be used to determine which students are interested in attending for reasons beyond the Purdue University ranking. Remember, your Purdue supplemental essays are your chance to show the admissions team your genuine interest in the school. 

Looking to put your best foot forward when filling out the Common Application and writing the Common App essay? Check out this guide for helpful tips.

Top 5 Purdue Supplemental Essay Tips

How to write an outstanding purdue supplemental essay:, #1 – start early.

Be sure to leave yourself time to edit and revise each of your Purdue University supplemental essays. You don’t want to be drafting and editing a Purdue supplemental essay down to the wire.

#2 – Look at the big picture

When writing your Purdue supplemental essays, consider your application as a whole. Make sure that each Purdue supplemental essay explores something new about you. 

#3 – Be authentic

Don’t lie or exaggerate on your Purdue University supplemental essays. Each Purdue application essay is a chance for you to showcase who you are.

#4 – Show your unique self

These Purdue supplemental essays are an opportunity for you to stand out to Purdue admissions. Don’t generalize in your responses to the Purdue essay prompts. Instead, get specific about your experiences. Use the opportunity to not only demonstrate who you are, but also to show off your writing style.

#5 – Proofread, proofread, proofread!

Edit your essays . You don’t want to craft a stellar Purdue supplemental essay, only to have it marred by poor grammar or a spelling mistake. Have another person look over each Purdue supplemental essay before you submit it. 

Purdue Supplemental Essay — Final Thoughts

Although each Purdue supplemental essay is short, they are also incredibly important. Don’t think that a short essay will take you less time to write—often, short essays are the hardest to write. Given the Purdue University ranking, you should use every chance you get to stand out. This includes crafting strong Purdue supplemental essays.

Be yourself

The Purdue essay prompts help the admissions committee get to know the person behind the grades and test scores. Make sure that your Purdue supplemental essays are full of anecdotes and stories that show why you will succeed as a Purdue student! Let your readers know in each Purdue supplemental essay that you have done your research and thought about why you want to attend Purdue.

Ask for help!

And finally, seek help from trusted sources with editing your Purdue supplemental essays; sometimes a second opinion can help you improve your Purdue essays in unexpected ways.

This Purdue supplemental essays guide was written by Laura Frustaci.   Looking for more admissions support? Click  here  to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how  CollegeAdvisor.com  can support you in the college application process.

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Below, please find answers to the questions we most frequently hear from prospective students and their families who are considering the Barrett Honors College experience at any of the following ASU locations: Downtown, Polytechnic, Tempe, West or Online. Information shared here addresses ASU and Barrett requirements, ASU Barrett deadline and specific ASU honors college requirements.

Don't see the answer to your question? Contact us .

General FAQs

What is barrett.

Barrett, The Honors College is an umbrella college within ASU, meaning undergraduate students in any of ASU’s 400+ degree programs across the four Phoenix metropolitan campuses and ASU Online can potentially join the honors college.

Barrett is designed to complement and enhance, not replace, the overall ASU experience. Students complete a portion of the credits required for their university bachelor’s degree as honors credits, which can be earned in the classroom through required major courses or electives, and outside of the classroom through internships, research and study abroad. 

Additionally, Barrett offers three-tiered advising support, dedicated faculty mentorship, unique honors opportunities, and distinctive honors residential communities at each of ASU’s four Phoenix metropolitan campuses (Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe and West).

How will Barrett benefit me?

Barrett students get the best of both worlds - access to the massive resources and opportunities of ASU, while enjoying the close, personal attention of the dedicated Barrett faculty and staff. The customizable honors college curriculum allows students to delve deeper into their interests and helps our graduates stand out when applying for jobs, graduate programs, medical, or law school.

It is impossible to list every benefit students with different goals for college who are in various majors will find with Barrett. Therefore, we encourage prospective students and their families to spend some time exploring this website, including the Benefits of Barrett page, and join us for an in-person visit  or virtual session  visit to learn about the nuanced and many benefits our students receive.

When can I join Barrett?

For students who plan to attend Barrett in person at one of ASU’s four Phoenix metropolitan campuses (Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe or West):

• Entry Point 1: High school seniors apply for Barrett Lower Division consideration. Lower Division is a four-year honors college experience. Students who took time off after high school, did not attend another college or university, and are entering ASU for the first time are also eligible for this entry point.
• Entry Point 2: Students in their first semester at ASU (or at another college or university) may join Barrett for their second semester via Lower Division application. Students must have at least three and a half academic years remaining in their ASU undergraduate degree program to be eligible for Barrett Lower Division consideration.
• Entry Point 3: Students who have completed approximately half of their undergraduate degree at ASU (or at another college or university) apply for Barrett Upper Division consideration. Students must have at least two academic years remaining in their ASU undergraduate degree program - approximately 60 credits - to be eligible for Barrett Upper Division consideration.

For students who plan to attend Barrett in person at one of ASU’s four Phoenix metropolitan campuses (Downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe, or West), find application information for your student type:

• First-year student
• Current ASU student
• Transfer student

For students who plan to attend Barrett as an ASU Online student:

• Barrett Online is for students in an ASU Online undergraduate degree who have completed at least 24 college credits after high school graduation, have met ASU’s first-year composition requirement , and have at least 60 credits remaining until intended ASU graduation.
• Find application information on the Barrett Online Student  page.

How can I schedule a visit?

Prospective students can visit Barrett, The Honors College in person or virtually. First, determine which campus houses your intended major . Then register for a visit that works with your schedule at that campus.

In-person visits are scheduled through the ASU visit site . Students are encouraged to include both a general ASU tour and Barrett-specific session in their campus visit.

Live-hosted virtual Barrett visits are offered periodically each month. Register for a virtual session .

Is Barrett extra work?

Barrett strives for its students to be challenged in ways that enrich the ASU experience, as opposed to simply adding more work and calling it rigor. Rather than just adding classes, honors college students take honors options in place of other classes required for their ASU degree program.

Honors credits still count as ASU credits toward the undergraduate degree(s) a student is pursuing. Students can earn honors credits by opting for honors versions of classes, working closely with professors on special projects, participating in research, holding internships, studying abroad, and more. Attend a Barrett Information Session and explore the Academics tab of our website to learn about the ways Barrett students customize their academic experience.

How are honors classes different from regular ASU courses?

Honors classes encourage faculty mentorship and a deeper investigation into the topics of the course. There are many different types of honors classes with varying structures. Some honors classes are smaller than their regular counterparts, others are discussion-based rather than lecture-style, and some will incorporate elevated topics into the curriculum. Learn more about the various types of honors classes in a Barrett Information Session .

As a Barrett student, can I double major or add a minor?

Absolutely! It is common for Barrett students to pursue multiple majors, minors, and/or certificates at ASU. Priority class registration for all Barrett students makes it easier to create the perfect class schedule each semester. Students select their primary major when applying to ASU and can add a second major, minor or certificate through their academic advisor.

When should I meet with my academic advisors?

First-year ASU students  First-year students first meet with their academic advisors during New Student Orientation Experience , and will then meet with their Honors Academic Advisor during their first semester of enrollment. Throughout their time at ASU, Barrett students will be contacted by major and Barrett advisors to schedule appointments appropriate to their progress towards degree completion. Prior to arriving on-campus, any questions should be directed to your ASU Admissions Representative or the Barrett Recruitment Office ( [email protected] ).

Transfer students Transfer students to ASU are expected to complete the New Transfer Student Orientation Experience. The program guides new university students through their enrollment steps, essential tasks, and includes academic advising. Transfer students also attend a special Barrett orientation and welcome, with information about the program provided in their honors college admission materials.

ASU Online students ASU Online students receive a Success Coach – part personal advisor and part motivator. Your Success Coach provides a one-to-one coaching experience to guide you through balancing life, work and school. There is a special honors college orientation and welcome for Barrett Online students, with information about the program provided in their honors college admission materials.

What are the Barrett graduation requirements?

There are three Barrett enrollment options, each with a specific set of graduation requirements.

Lower Division Curriculum  Barrett students at one of the four ASU campuses in the Phoenix metropolitan area, who are pursuing the 4-year (Lower Division) honors experience, must successfully complete:

• 36 honors credits
• The Human Event sequence of courses
• An honors thesis
• And have a 3.25+ cumulative GPA at the time of graduation

Upper Division Curriculum  Barrett students at one of the four ASU campuses in the Phoenix metropolitan area, who are pursuing the 2-year (Upper Division) honors experience, must successfully complete:

• 21 honors credits
• The History of Ideas course

Online Curriculum  While the eligibility requirements are different for ASU Online students interested in Barrett enrollment, for those who apply and are accepted the graduation requirements currently mirror those of our physical campus Upper Division students.

Even if a student does not graduate from Barrett, they can still graduate from ASU.

How do I apply to Barrett?

First, students must apply to ASU . After receiving and activating their ASURITE ID, students can then access the separate and free Barrett application. ASU admission is not necessary to start the Barrett application, but a student’s Barrett application will not be considered complete until ASU admission is conferred. For this reason, we strongly encourage prospective students to apply to ASU 4 - 6 weeks before their preferred Barrett deadline. All complete Barrett applications will move into review at the next available deadline. Application deadlines vary based on fall or spring semester interest and student type:

• Incoming first-year students
• Current ASU students
• Transfer Students
• ASU Online students

What does Barrett look for in an application?

With each incoming class, the Barrett admissions committee strives to create a dynamic and well-rounded group of students who will contribute to every aspect of the honors college experience and benefit from this strong community.

In addition to the academic record, the admissions committee looks for students who exhibit leadership qualities, have special talents (e.g. musical, athletic, scientific, artistic), pursue interesting hobbies or avocations, enjoy unique personal achievements, have unusual life experiences and/or display community involvement.

We also have a deep interest in knowing why each applicant is interested in Barrett, The Honors College, including the ways they will both benefit from and contribute to the honors college community.

May an applicant appeal their decision?

Only high school seniors with a complete honors college application in the Early Action or Regular Decision pools may request a re-review of their released Barrett decision. (Many students refer to a re-review request as an “appeal.”)

Successful re-review requests - those that result in the change of the original Barrett admissions committee decision - are rare and almost always present substantive new information that was not a part of a student's initial application materials. For example: since applying, you have improved your grades, seriously committed to a new activity you plan to continue into college, received recognition for a noteworthy achievement, etc.

Additional information regarding the fall 2024 request for re-review process is provided in the student's decision letter.

Does Barrett require a minimum GPA or standardized test scores for admission?

There is no minimum GPA requirement for admission. The Barrett application is quite comprehensive, allowing many different facets of each individual to be considered. The average GPA for transfer or continuing ASU students admitted to Barrett is a 3.60. For high school seniors, the average unweighted high school GPA is 3.81. The Barrett admissions committee always considers GPAs in the context of the program of study in which they were earned. Applicants should take great care to articulate their educational background on the application. The numbers provided above are averages. A GPA or test score at or above the average is not a guarantee of admission, nor does a GPA or test score below the average necessarily preclude a student from receiving an admission offer.

Barrett will continue to be ACT and SAT "test blind" for spring 2024 and fall 2024. This means Barrett will not consider ACT or SAT scores for 2024 honors college applications even for students who may wish to submit exam results to ASU .

Students share their Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) test results on the Barrett application, as well as indicate instances where test-sitting cancellations impacted their plans to complete an AP or IB examination.

International students whose native language is not English and who did not attend a high school where the language of instruction was English must self-report the results of an English Proficiency examination on their Barrett application. The TOEFL , IELTS , PTE and the Duolingo English test all satisfy this requirement.

What is the primary Barrett application essay for 2025?

The Barrett application essay allows you to address our admissions committee in your own voice. We have a deep interest in knowing why you are considering Barrett, The Honors College, and your essay will let us better see you as a future scholar in our community.

Keep the following in mind:

• Your essay may take creative and intellectual risks, but be sure to address and integrate all elements of the prompt.
• Your essay should give the admissions committee insight into how you reason and what you value.  

The essay will also contribute to our assessment of your ability to write effectively and think critically, key skills for success in the honors curriculum.  Essays that are general or impersonal are less successful.  There is never a correct answer nor a preferred response to a prompt.

Applicants choose from one of three essay prompts to compose a 300 - 500 word essay.

• Barrett's core values are Community and Belonging, Leadership and Agency, and Courage and Curiosity.  All three pairs are important to who we are, but which of these couplings most resonate with you and why?  In answering the why, be specific by reflecting on both your lived experiences and the ways Barrett will be foundational to your time at ASU and beyond.
• Briefly tell us about something you enjoy and why.  This can be an organized activity or something you informally pursue in your free time.  The bulk of your essay should then be spent speaking to how this interest makes you a good fit for Barrett (not college in general, but specifically the honors experience at ASU).
• Identify a local, national, or global challenge – big or small – that you intend to play an active role in resolving.  Be specific in explaining why this challenge is important to you, how it informed your selection of a field of study at ASU, and in what ways joining Barrett will prepare you to address this issue.

Note: Barrett Upper Division and Barrett Online applicants write one and two additional 250-word essays, respectively.  These are posted to the application itself.  You may also email [email protected] to request the prompts for the additional Online and Upper Division essays.

Barrett Online

What are the eligibility requirements to apply for barrett online.

To apply for Barrett Online admission, students in an ASU Online undergraduate degree program must meet all three of the following criteria.

• 24 Credit Minimum – Earned a minimum of 24 credits post high school graduation and before Barrett enrollment. These can include in-progress credits at the time of Barrett application submission. The 24 credits can be a combination of ASU and transfer units.
• Composition Requirement – Completed the ASU first-year composition requirement before Barrett enrollment. Students may be currently enrolled in first-year composition classes at the time of their Barrett application. The requirement simply must be satisfied before Barrett enrollment.
• 60 Credits Remaining – Have a minimum of 60 credits remaining until intended ASU graduation at the time of Barrett enrollment. It is also required that applicants have a minimum of four semesters remaining until their intended ASU graduation. This time remaining can include summer semesters.

Are letters of recommendation required to apply?

The Barrett Online application does NOT include letters of recommendation. Instead, Barrett Online applicants compose an additional essay, for a total of three short writing submissions.

Are Barrett Online courses all live, synchronous courses?

There is only one required Barrett Online course called HON 370 History of Ideas. This course is a 15-week, live, synchronous class that requires Zoom attendance during a designated class time and is completed during your first semester in Barrett. All other credits required for Barrett Online can be completed asynchronously.

Can I participate in student events/activities or even attend graduation as a Barrett Online student?

Yes! Barrett Online students are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities specifically designed for our Online community . All Barrett Online students receive a biweekly email newsletter, the Honors Online Digest, with numerous updates and opportunities for Online students. There is also a Barrett Online Canvas page that shares resources, advertises upcoming events and helps you track your Barrett Bucks (the honors college currency you’ll collect by engaging with the Barrett community that can then be spent on Barrett merchandise). Additionally, Barrett Online students created The Forge, an official student organization that provides a relaxed environment for Barrett Online students to come together through conversations, games and virtual gathers.

If you are interested in participating in Barrett events in-person, you are encouraged to do so! Some Barrett Online students choose to participate in Barrett travel programs for immersive learning experiences with peers, attend in-person Barrett activities if they happen to be in Arizona, and walk at graduation ceremonies on campus.

Can a veteran or active member of the military be a part of Barrett Online? How about the Barrett fee?

The Barrett fee is covered by military benefits for veterans and their dependents. Active members of the military are responsible for paying the Barrett fee, it is not covered by military benefits. All applicants affiliated with the military are encourage to connect with the Pat Tillman Veterans Center to discuss your individual benefits and what they covers.

I’m a part of SCAP, Uber or another of ASU’s corporate partners, is my Barrett fee covered?

The Barrett fee is currently covered by SCAP and Uber. Although no other corporate partners presently address the Barrett fee, you are encouraged to continue checking on fee coverage since this could change in the future.

Cost and aid

Does barrett cost more.

ASU tuition is the same for Barrett students. Like most colleges at the university, Barrett charges a fee which goes directly toward developing and supporting the unique honors experience of each student. Currently, the Barrett fee is $1,000 per semester. Your housing and meal plan costs may differ as a Barrett student, depending on which options you select. Barrett offers a variety of scholarships , most of which have deadlines on March 1 for the following academic year (e.g. March 1, 2024 for 2024 - 2025). We do not want the additional cost of the Barrett fee to be a hindrance to any student with financial need, so be sure to carefully review all available funding opportunities and contact us for questions.

When can I apply for scholarships?

There are essentially three types of scholarships:

• Offered by the university
• Offered by the academic colleges at ASU which house each student’s degree programs
• Barrett scholarships

The Barrett scholarship applications for most 2024-2025 Barrett awards will open on Nov. 1, 2023, and close on Mar. 1, 2024. In addition to submitting the appropriate scholarship applications, students must be admitted to Barrett by March 8, 2024 for their 2024-2025 Barrett scholarship applications to be considered. Be sure to apply to Barrett accordingly to ensure a decision by March 8.

Does my ASU scholarship apply to Barrett?

Yes! ASU automatically awards many incoming students merit scholarships through the New American University ( NAMU ) scholarship program. These awards are available to students regardless of their participation in Barrett.

What is the FAFSA and should I submit it?

The FAFSA is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid , a tool that assesses a student’s financial need. ASU will offer students a combination of grants, work-study funding, and loans each year based on demonstrated need from the FAFSA. The FAFSA opens on October 1 and ASU’s priority filing date is January 15 each year. Aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis so students are encouraged to apply early.

Barrett recommends all students to submit a FAFSA for each academic year. Some ASU scholarships require that a FAFSA is on file with the university for scholarship consideration. Students can always choose to decline funding offers.

Am I required to live on campus?

Unless they receive a housing exception to live at home for a unique circumstance (financial, health, etc.), ASU first-year students live on campus regardless of whether they are in the honors college or not. Barrett offers a distinctive four-year residential experience. Barrett students live in the honors community at the ASU campus of their major for their first two years, and many choose to stay all four years to take advantage of the world-class amenities and on-campus convenience. 

Barrett students who enroll in the honors college through the Upper Division pathway (2-year honors experience) or who are ASU Online students have the option to live in the honors college community, space permitting. 

Is housing guaranteed?

ASU guarantees housing for all incoming first-year students and for all second-year Barrett students, so long as the housing application is submitted by the posted priority deadline. On-campus housing is available on a first-come, first-served basis for Barrett students after their second year of college.

Where do Barrett students live?

There is a unique Barrett residential community at all four of ASU’s Phoenix metropolitan campuses. Incoming first-year Barrett students live in the honors community at the ASU campus of their major for their first two years:

• Polytechnic
• West  

Does Barrett housing cost more?

There are several housing options for Barrett students at each campus. Your housing and meal plan costs may be different as a Barrett student, depending on which option you select within Barrett compared to the non-honors options available to your major.

Student life

Can i still participate in student organizations, sports, multiple academic programs, etc. if i’m in barrett.

Yes! Barrett does not prevent students from participating in other opportunities on or off campus. It is common for honors college students to be involved in student organizations, work part-time jobs, hold leadership positions and pursue multiple academic programs. You can participate in any of the larger ASU extracurricular activities, choose to be a part of the smaller Barrett organizations or both.

Fun fact: Over 60 Barrett students participate on Sun Devil Division I athletic teams, which represents roughly 10% of the university’s student-athletes, and the same percentage of Barrett students as non-honors ASU students participate in social, business, and service fraternities and sororities.

How do off-campus students stay connected to the Barrett community?

Off-campus Barrett students are encouraged to enjoy the unique honors college communities across all four ASU campuses. Deans, staff and faculty offices are conveniently located to promote student success through advising, mentoring, engagement and support services. With the exception of the residential space where students live, off-campus students have access to all of the available Barrett amenities during business hours. We invite you to visit the “Life at Barrett” area of this website to learn more about these distinctive and welcoming spaces constructed specifically for honors students.

Barrett also builds a strong community of support and connection for honors college students pursuing their ASU degrees virtually. The Barrett Online experience features exciting virtual events, special opportunities for travel and global engagement, service, and student organizations such as The Forge and the Barrett Honors College Council. View these and other student groups on Sun Devil Sync .

Off-campus Barrett students, whether Online or at a physical campus, will also receive the Honors-L email digest and should join the Barrett social media platforms to stay on top of all the exciting things happening!

How do I meet other students and get involved?

There are all sorts of ways to engage with the Barrett community. There is not just one type of student in Barrett, so the college mindfully offers a wide array of honors-only resources and opportunities. For example, Barrett supports over 30 student organizations. Whatever your interests might be, you will find other honors college students who share your passions!

The Barrett community is also rich with events centered on wellness, arts, culture, academic success, building connections, and community action. As just one example, through the Barrett Explores travel program students can travel with classmates to Great American Cities, National Parks, and unique parts of Arizona. Challenge yourself to attend an event, join a club, or travel with Barrett to create unforgettable memories and forge new friendships.

Albert Dorman Honors College

The Albert Dorman Honors College welcomes applications from students who have a strong academic record and a history of leadership and service to the community.

High School Students

The Albert Dorman Honors College welcomes applications from high school students who have excellent grades (B+ average), rank in the top 90+ percentile of test takers on the SAT or ACT exam, and participate in service activities. Please note, first-year students applying to New Jersey Institute of Technology for entry in the Fall of 2023 can choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores. This does not apply to Albert Dorman Honors College or accelerated program applicants.

• Accelerated programs: November 1st
• For Fall admission: February 1st

How to Apply:

• Visit the  Common Application .
• Apply to NJIT.
• Indicate your interest in the Honors College.
• Answer all the questions pertaining to the Honors College.
• Write an essay (max. 400 words) on the exact topic specified on the application; a general essay is not acceptable.  See  Tips For Writing an Honors College Essay .
• Upload a resume (optional)
• Submit one letter of recommendation  

Decision Dates, for both Dorman Honors College and the Dean's Scholars Program (decisions are posted on the applicant status portal):

Transfer Students

Current NJIT students and incoming transfer students are welcome to apply if they have outstanding records. A GPA of 3.6+ in a rigorous college-level curriculum is required. Learn more about how to apply here .

Additional Information:

Current College Students at NJIT or Elsewhere

Questions and Answers about the Honors College

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How to Format a College Essay

In the Fall of 2022, an estimated  17.9 million students  were enrolled in degree-granting colleges across the United States. With Summer here at last, this means it's time for a new batch of college students to begin writing their college essays for their college admissions process. 

College admission applications are on the rise. Between 2019-2020 and 2021-2022, the number of college admission submissions  increased by 21.3% . With more potential competition, it's important to craft an essay that will help you stand out and get noticed by your school of choice.

But writing the perfect college admission essay isn't always easy. You need to know how to format a college essay properly. You also need to understand some common dos and don'ts associated with writing an essay. 

If you're a college student looking for help with writing and formatting college essays, this guide can help. Keep reading below for more information and advice about essay formatting.

Focus on Your Personal Experience

College essays are a chance to share your personal life experiences with potential colleagues. You're putting your essence on the page. So it is vital that you tap into this when writing an essay. 

At the top 250 schools in America, your essay alone is  worth 25%  of your total application, so you don't want to leave anything to chance. That's why infusing your personal story of your upbringing and why you want to attend a specific university is so important.

Don't use premade templates to simply fill in the blanks. While they are helpful outlines for how to format a college essay, they are not a substitute for a well-written and personal essay. Doing this could come off as stale and formulaic and cause admissions to pass on your essay altogether.

Appropriate Font Styles and Sizes

Remember, your college essay is a reflection of you and your merits as a student. It must look professional and well-formatted. You need to follow the same font formatting structure as you would if you were  creating a resume . 

Using the right font styles and sizes will help you get the right kind of attention. Avoid using cutesy and overly ornate fonts at all costs as they are hard to read and come off as unprofessional. Customary professional font styles include:

• Times New Roman

The recommended font size for how to format a college essay properly is 12pt. This makes it large enough to read without being too overpowering.

Properly Utilized Margins and Paragraph Idents

Nothing is more frustrating for college admissions members to read than an essay where the text runs over into the margins. It looks messy and amateurish. 

Always maintain clean margins in your college essays. It is recommended that you keep 1-inch margins all around your essay format at the top, bottom, left, and right of the page.

This is a standard and highly recommended tip for how to format a college essay cleanly. It will keep your essay visually pleasing and easy to read for the college admissions boards who will be looking at your essays.

For paragraph indents, simply use the Tab key to easily indent the start of each new paragraph set. Remember that 3-5 sentences is the recommended grouping for paragraph clusters.

Suitable Line Spacing

Line spacing is another factor in how to format a college essay that will add to your essay's overall appeal. While most universities are accepting essays done in a single-spaced format, you can use other spacing options.

It is recommended you use at least a 1.5 spacing when you write an essay for college admissions. This will make it easier for college admissions personnel to read. At most, you can use double spacing as long as this doesn't make your essay too lengthy page-wise.

However, if your college admissions application specifies a preferred line spacing method, always go with what they request.

Tips for Copy/Pasting Essays into a Text Box 

Some universities may still allow you to print out and mail in paper essays. However, a majority of universities are modernizing to either email or text-box essay forms for digital submissions.

If you can attach a Word document to an email for submission, your original essay formatting should stay intact. In a text box, though, your formatting may not stay consistent if you copy and paste your content. It may be necessary to go back through the content in the text box and ensure that the paragraphs and spacing are correct.

With a copy/paste text box, you may not have as much control over the font style and text size aspects. Some universities may have the option to let you adjust the font and text size. It will depend on their submission preferences. 

Dos and Don'ts of How to Format a College Essay

Before you submit your college essays, there are some things you need to verify and double-check. There are also some best practices you should engage in when it comes to the quality and consistency of your essay content. Here are some important dos and don'ts to follow for how to format a college essay that you can be proud of.

DO Verify That You Understood and Adequately Answered the Essay Prompt

You may have a beautifully written essay, but does it meet the main objective of the prompt? If your essay does not make a clear connection between your experience and the specific essay prompt chosen, you will need to rework it.

DO Use Your Unique Voice

You may think you have to sound like some stuffy tenured professor when writing an essay for college admissions, but this is not the case.

It's okay to use your natural voice in your writing, as long as you avoid using too much slang or abbreviations. You should also be sure to maintain the proper spelling and grammar structures.

DO Talk About Specific College Attributes and How They Apply to You

It's okay to briefly mention a few aspects of the particular university you are applying to as long as you mention how they relate to you. It shows you've done your research.

For example, you can mention a professor you've heard about or a particular class you are looking forward to taking. You may even want to mention an on-campus club you're interested in joining.

DO Paint a Descriptive Short Narrative of Your Life

You may not have a ton of space to go into every detail of your life, but you can let admissions see a short but poignant part of it. The goal is to make them feel like they are there with you. That's the beauty of good storytelling.

Include details like certain tastes and smells you remember (i.e., the salty sea air, fresh buttered popcorn, etc.). You should also include emotions and senses, like touch, that you remember to help impact your story.

DO Ask for Help and Guidance if Needed

Your college essay is about you, your personal life experience, and your decision to go to college. But it's okay to ask if you need some help with it. Parents, trusted friends, and school guidance counselors can give you a fresh set of eyes on your essay and offer you some helpful feedback.

DON'T Falsify Achievements or Write About Things You Have No Knowledge Of

In a college essay, it may be tempting to write about grandiose-sounding topics or accomplishments that make you sound more impressive. This isn't the best way for the university to get the most authentic picture of who you are as a college student. 

Always stay on topic with your college essays and write what you know from personal experience. 

DON'T Use the Same College Essay for Every College Application

If college is important to you, you need to take the time to write an essay that is unique to each university you apply to. College admissions members are trained to detect which essays are half-hearted attempts at copying and pasting instead of genuine efforts.

Besides, you may spend more time trying to figure out how to format a college essay written for a previous university than you do writing a new one from scratch. 

DON'T Use Your Personal Statement Essay as a Duplicate of Activities and Interests

Each part of your college essay and application gives you an opportunity to paint the bigger picture of who you are as a person. When it comes to your personal essay, though, don't become a broken record for things you've already mentioned, like  extracurricular activities .

Instead, use this area to detail a specific story of your upbringing or a life-changing event that inspired you or helped shape you.

DON'T Rely Only on Spelling and Grammar Check Tools

You've put all this effort into writing an essay for college, so don't leave it to spellcheck software to check for any spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

Part of how to format a college essay correctly is to manually re-read it and check for these issues yourself. If you're not certain that you've identified any and all issues properly, let a friend or parent also read it over for additional clarity.

DON'T Repeat Back What You Think the College Admissions Wants to Hear

So many potential applicants fall back on trying to just parrot back university values chapter and verse. College admissions offices see this all the time and have learned that this is an attempt at fluff, not substance.

Your college essay is the opportunity to present the real you and  stand out from the crowd . So write about yourself, not about the merits of the university itself.

Learn More About College Essay Tips at Honor Society Today 

College essays can be intimidating, but they are vital admissions components. Now that you better understand the ins and outs of how to format a college essay, you can be on your way to writing an essay that is sure to wow college admissions boards. 

Honor Society understands the unique needs facing the average college student. That's why we provide information and other resources to help you thrive. Our member benefits include scholarship platforms, discounts on dining, dental, vision, and hearing health discount plans, and so much more.

Join Honor Society  today by filling out an application on our website.

View the discussion thread.

About the Author

Articles you may like

In the Fall of 2022, an estimated  17.9 million students  were enrolled in degree-granting colleges across the United States. With Summer here at last, this means it's time for a new batch of college students to begin writing their college essays for their college admissions process. 

College admission applications are on the rise. Between 2019-2020 and 2021-2022, the number of college admission submissions  increased by 21.3% . With more potential competition, it's important to craft an essay that will help you stand out and get noticed by your school of choice.

But writing the perfect college admission essay isn't always easy. You need to know how to format a college essay properly. You also need to understand some common dos and don'ts associated with writing an essay. 

College essays are a chance to share your personal life experiences with potential colleagues. You're putting your essence on the page. So it is vital that you tap into this when writing an essay. 

At the top 250 schools in America, your essay alone is  worth 25%  of your total application, so you don't want to leave anything to chance. That's why infusing your personal story of your upbringing and why you want to attend a specific university is so important.

Remember, your college essay is a reflection of you and your merits as a student. It must look professional and well-formatted. You need to follow the same font formatting structure as you would if you were  creating a resume . 

• Calibri 

Nothing is more frustrating for college admissions members to read than an essay where the text runs over into the margins. It looks messy and amateurish. 

It is recommended you use at least a 1.5 spacing when you write an essay for college admissions. This will make it easier for college admissions personnel to read. At most, you can use double spacing as long as this doesn't make your essay too lengthy page-wise.

Tips for Copy/Pasting Essays into a Text Box 

With a copy/paste text box, you may not have as much control over the font style and text size aspects. Some universities may have the option to let you adjust the font and text size. It will depend on their submission preferences. 

In a college essay, it may be tempting to write about grandiose-sounding topics or accomplishments that make you sound more impressive. This isn't the best way for the university to get the most authentic picture of who you are as a college student. 

Always stay on topic with your college essays and write what you know from personal experience. 

Besides, you may spend more time trying to figure out how to format a college essay written for a previous university than you do writing a new one from scratch. 

Each part of your college essay and application gives you an opportunity to paint the bigger picture of who you are as a person. When it comes to your personal essay, though, don't become a broken record for things you've already mentioned, like  extracurricular activities .

Your college essay is the opportunity to present the real you and  stand out from the crowd . So write about yourself, not about the merits of the university itself.

Learn More About College Essay Tips at Honor Society Today 

College essays can be intimidating, but they are vital admissions components. Now that you better understand the ins and outs of how to format a college essay, you can be on your way to writing an essay that is sure to wow college admissions boards. 

Join Honor Society  today by filling out an application on our website.

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The Honors College

Apply to the Honors College

Debating between a small college and large university? Why not have both?

The Honors College offers the best of both worlds  — the personal support and attention of a small college combined with the diversity and resources of a large university.  

Honors College students enjoy these benefits:

• Small Classes for all Majors: We offer a range of Honors-designated classes with limited enrollment that encourage stimulating discussions and interactions.
• Priority Registration: Every semester, our students are the first to register for classes, ensuring that they enroll in the classes they want.
• Accessible Faculty/Staff: Honors College faculty and staff are readily available for one-on-one interactions with students. Four academic advisers are available year-round to meet with students.
• Student Community: Club Theater, Movie Night, Coffee House, Retreat, Model Arab League, Mentorship and museum trips are just a few of the many social organizations and activities that build community beyond the classroom. 
• Office of Undergraduate Research and Major Awards: Housed in the Honors College, this program assists students with securing practical research and internship opportunities.
• Distinction: The Honors College curriculum is designed to complement any field of study so that every student has the opportunity to be recognized with special distinction at graduation.

Other Amenities:

• Reserved computer labs, study areas, lounges and residence halls
• Scholarship opportunities
• Access to special study abroad and research opportunities
• Individualized orientation and advising sessions

Consideration Dates

For fall candidates.

November 1 — Priority Scholarship Deadline for admission to the University of Houston

March 1 (Priority Deadline)  — Priority Application deadline for admission to the Honors College. Students admitted to the Honors College by this deadline will be invited to Scholars Invitational, the exclusive Honors College Orientation opportunity for priority enrollment.

June 2 - Deadline for admission to the Honors College. Final decisions for fall semester admissions are made by August 1. Students are highly encouraged to complete their application by March 1.

June 2 — Application and supporting documents deadline for admission to the University of Houston. Visit the University of Houston Admissions website for additional information.  

Freshman applicants seeking University scholarships are advised to apply during the fall semester of their senior year in high school (by Nov. 1), as the University reserves the right to cease awarding scholarships once funds are exhausted.    

For spring candidates

December 2 — Application and supporting documents deadline for spring admissions. Final decisions for spring semester admission are made during the first two weeks of January.   

Application FAQ

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1. Eligibility

Students must be admissible to the University of Houston. For admission to the University, please visit the University of Houston Office of Admissions.

All applicants are evaluated on an individual basis. The Honors College Admissions Committee considers the high school and/or academic record, extracurricular activities, test scores (when provided) and essay of each applicant.

Average Honors students have graduated in the top 10% of their high school class with a score of 1300 or above on the SAT. The committee, however, does not use these numerical norms as required thresholds for admission, and students meeting these criteria are not automatically accepted. All interested students are encouraged to apply. See the Honors Profile for more entering class information.

2. How to Apply

To apply for admission to the Honors College, students must submit the following:

• Honors College Online Application
• A full-length academic essay: a literary analysis with a central thesis and strong supporting arguments, 3–5 pages
• Résumé or list of activities and interests
• High school transcript (high school seniors only)
• Transcript of all college-level work
• SAT or ACT scores (high school seniors only)*

Note: If you have already sent transcripts or test scores to the University, you do not need to re-send them to the Honors College. However, you can expedite the processing of your application to the Honors College by submitting unofficial copies of your transcripts directly to the Honors College. We will verify that your official transcripts have been received by the University Office of Admissions and process your application quicker.

Students may submit their supporting documents via the online application or by email to [email protected] . Please include your UH ID on all submitted documents.

* University of Houston admissions requirements for spring, summer and fall 2025 are "test optional." You will select if you want your UH application to be reviewed with or without a test score. Additional information may be found here. The Honors College will continue to review applicants holistically based on test-optional selections.

3. If I have already sent my transcript and/or test scores to the University of Houston, do I need to send another copy to the Honors College?

No. If you have already sent transcripts or test scores to the University, you do not need to re-send them to the Honors College. However, you can expedite the processing of your application to the Honors College by submitting unofficial copies of your transcripts directly to the Honors College. We will verify that your official transcripts have been received by the University Office of Admissions and process your application quicker.

4. Can transfer students apply to the Honors College?

Yes. The Honors College accepts both students transferring to the University of Houston and students who have completed credit hours at the University of Houston. Please use the mid-career application for admission. Mid-career students are not required to submit test scores or class rank. Instead, the admissions committee will consider college coursework completed to date as the basis for the admission decision. Mid-career students should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 to be considered; the admissions committee will also review closely the student's work in the core courses, such as English, history and mathematics. If interested, view the mid-career application .

5. What is the turnaround time on decisions?

Admission decisions are made within approximately two to three weeks of our receipt of a completed application and all supporting documents. Admission decisions for the following fall semester occur on a rolling basis beginning in October. Admission decisions for the spring semester occur during December, contingent upon receipt of all documents.

Admission decisions are delivered by mail and email and cannot be shared by phone. To confirm contact details, contact the Student Services Office at 713.743.9010 or 888.827.0366 or via email at [email protected] .

6. What are the specific requirements for the application essay?

Applicants must submit a 3-5 page literary analysis that has a central thesis with strong supporting arguments. This can be over a book, play, short story, speech or poem. A personal essay or research paper is not acceptable. We recommend submitting an essay that you've previously written for an English class that meets this criteria.

7. What are the minimum required GPA and test scores?

Every Honors applicant is evaluated on an individual basis. The Honors College Admissions Committee considers the academic record, extracurricular activities, test scores* and the essay of each applicant. Average Honors students have graduated in the top 10% of their high school class with a score of 1300 or above on their SAT. The committee, however, does not use these numerical norms as required thresholds for admission, and students meeting these criteria are not automatically accepted.

Mid-career applicants should have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 to be considered. The admissions committee will also review closely the student's work in their core courses, such as English, history and mathematics.

All interested students are encouraged to apply. See the Honors Profile for more entering class information.

* University of Houston admissions requirements for spring, summer and fall 2025 are "test optional." You will select if you want your UH application to be reviewed with or without a test score. Additional information may be found here. The Honors College will continue to holistically review an applicant's criterion.

8. Are AP/IB/Dual Credits accepted in the Honors College?

Yes. For a full listing of AP and IB tests for credit, please visit the University of Houston admission site. Information on how to apply these credits to your University of Houston degree is also available at this site.

9. What will the Honors College offer me?

The Honors College offers the resources of a major metropolitan state university, while also providing an intimate, challenging and supportive educational environment that fosters the development of intellect and character: the kind of environment that you would ordinarily expect to find at a small liberal arts college.

10. What are some of the benefits for students of the Honors College?

Honors College students enjoy many benefits, including but not limited to: priority registration, eligibility for Honors residence halls and access to Honors private amenities such as the Honors study lounge and computer center. Additionally, Honors students regularly receive invitations to special campus activities and community events, such as the Fall Convocation, Honors Retreat, conversations with visiting scholars and Houston Grand Opera, Alley Theatre and Houston Symphony performances. What's more, Honors College students receive individual assistance and personal academic advising from Honors faculty and staff. Our students tell us that being able to talk to someone who cares and has the power to help is one of the most valuable Honors College benefits.

11. How will my Honors work be recognized?

Students who complete 36 semester hours of the   Honors College curriculum   and are active members in good standing at the time of graduation are eligible to graduate with   University Honors . If a student also completes a   senior honors thesis or project , he or she is eligible to graduate with University Honors with Honors in Major. Students who complete a minimum of 21 semester hours in specified Honors coursework   graduate with   Collegiate Honors . Collegiate Honors students also have the option to complete one of three   Honors minors   to fulfill their Honors course requirements. Collegiate Honors students may also complete a senior honors thesis to graduate with Collegiate Honors with Honors in Major. Students who fulfill the requirements of their major with distinction and write a senior honors thesis graduate with Membership in the Honors College with Honors in Major. Moreover, all Honors courses are designated on a student's transcript. Research and experience have proven that graduate schools, professional schools and prospective employers are impressed by Honors College coursework.

12. Do Honors courses involve extra work?

Honors courses typically encourage independent critical thinking and rely on student participation in the classroom. Such courses may indeed be more demanding than equivalent large-lecture courses, but they also are more rewarding. In most circumstances, the amount of reading, writing and testing required in an Honors course would not be substantially different from that of a comparable University course.

13. Why should I take Honors courses?

Take Honors courses for three important reasons. First, the   coursework   presents challenging texts, ideas and methods whose aim is to add depth and breadth to every student's education and development. Second, Honors faculty members have been specifically chosen for their commitment to undergraduate education and their excellence as teachers, which means that students receive the finest quality of education possible. And third, in Honors courses, students will be among their brightest peers, allowing them to learn, not only from experienced professors, but from each other, both inside and outside the classroom.

14. Will I pay any fees for being a member of the Honors College?

As with most undergraduate colleges, the Honors College does charge fees to pay for various services and events. All   undergraduate college fees can be viewed at the financial aid site .

Calculate for all schools

Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, rutgers honors college essay examples.

Hey everyone, I'm applying to Rutgers Honors College and I'd like some help with the essay. Any examples of successful essays or tips on writing them would be super helpful! I really want my application to be strong. Thanks a lot!

Hi! It's great that you're aiming to make your Honors College application as strong as possible. While I can't share specific examples of successful essays (partly because sharing someone's unique essay may breach their privacy), here are some general tips on writing a stand-out Honors College essay for Rutgers. Keep in mind that the purpose of the essay is to showcase your abilities, accomplishments, and depth of thought in a way that separates you from other applicants.

1. Read the prompt carefully: Ensure you understand what the prompt is asking of you. Address all aspects of the prompt and use it to shape your essay’s narrative.

2. Be genuine: Be honest about your experiences, goals, and passion. Your genuine voice will resonate with the admissions committee, making your essay more memorable.

3. Show, don't tell: Instead of listing your accomplishments, delve into one or two meaningful experiences and describe them in detail—what happened, your role, and how it impacted you. Use descriptive language and examples that paint a vivid picture for the reader.

4. Connect your experiences: Draw connections between your achievements, experiences, or skills, and the values or qualities required for success in the Honors College. Demonstrate how these experiences have prepared you for the challenges and opportunities within the program.

5. Keep it concise: While you may have a lot to share, focus on the most relevant examples and ensure that you maintain a clear structure throughout the essay. You want the reader to easily follow your thoughts and grasp the key points you’re making.

6. Proofread and revise: Allow yourself enough time to revise your draft multiple times. Ask friends, family, or teachers to review your essay, provide feedback, and check for errors. This will not only help you polish your essay, but it will also demonstrate your commitment to submitting a quality application.

Remember to maintain your unique voice while writing and focus on demonstrating your genuine interest in the Honors College at Rutgers. By showcasing what makes you stand out and connecting your experiences to the program, you'll build a compelling essay that will leave a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Good luck!

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How to Apply

The honors college application is closed for fall 2024 entry., the application will reopen in september 2024 for fall 2025 entry., application deadlines & notifications.

Program Applications

• College of Arts + Architecture will first be reviewed by the Arts + Architecture Honors Program (AAHP) .
• Belk College of Business will first be reviewed by the Business Honors Program (BHP) .
• All other majors (including undecided) will be reviewed by the University Honors Program (UHP) .
• Applicants not selected for AAHP or BHP may be considered for UHP admission.
• Please Note: Students may be a member in only one of these honors programs.

Required Application Materials

Prepare the following materials to apply to the Honors College:

1. List of Activities

Please list and briefly describe any honors, awards, accomplishments, leadership positions, paid employment, and/or significant extracurricular activities (e.g., community service, clubs, sports, band, orchestra, etc.) you have earned or held during high school (or college, if applicable). Indicate the organization’s full name rather than the acronym. Add your activities in order of importance to you , with the first activity being the most important. Be sure to include your name at the top of the page.

2. Original Essay

The purpose of this essay is to help us get to know you as a person and understand how you think. You should submit polished writing that demonstrates authenticity, creativity, and analytical reflection. The best essay will give the review committee a clear sense of the unique intellectual and creative contributions you are poised to make to the UNC Charlotte community. Be sure to specifically address the prompt provided in no more than 500 words. Essays over 500 words will not be considered. Please include your name and date of birth at the top of the document.

Honors and merit scholars programs at UNC Charlotte expect you to be intellectually curious. Tell us about an idea that has piqued your intellectual curiosity, describe it, and tell us how you have pursued it in your high school years. Use specific examples of how you have used critical thinking and the inquiry process to deepen your knowledge of this idea.

The best essays will be:

• Polished writing that demonstrates authenticity, creativity, and analytical reflection
• Gives the review committee a clear sense of the unique intellectual and creative contributions you are poised to make to the Charlotte community

Note: The Honors College expects that applicants’ responses to the above prompt are entirely their own and reflect their personal experiences, ideas, and language. While it can be a helpful tool, artificial intelligence (AI) should not be used in the production of this essay.

*It is acceptable for you to use an essay you have submitted for another UNC Charlotte application if you feel it adequately addresses the prompt.

3. Two Academic Letters of Recommendation

An academic reference is defined as a current or former teacher or professor who was your instructor for at least one academic course.

Who Not to Ask

Family members, friends, coaches, current/former employers or co-workers, leaders of a faith-based or community organization, or similar connections should not be used as academic references.

What Recommenders Should Highlight

Recommenders should speak on your academic achievements, level of motivation, work ethic, and potential for continued success in higher education. Recommenders who are able to provide information about your character, personality, and/or leadership skills are beneficial.

When to Ask Recommenders

Select and approach your recommenders early. Writing detailed letters can be a time-consuming process, and you should seek to provide enough time for recommenders to complete and upload their letter.

How Do Recommenders Submit Their Letter

• Recommenders receive an email and must upload their letters to the application portal. (Priority Decision recommendation letters are due no later than Dec. 5, As Space Available recommendation letters are due no later than March 5)
• Applications with incomplete recommendation letters on Dec. 1 will roll over to the As Space Available pool.

*It is acceptable for you to use the same academic recommenders you have used for another UNC Charlotte application.

Joining the Honors College

 fall 2024 applications now closed , first-year students, apply to washington state university, complete two essays using the prompts below,      writing prompt 1:.

Imagine you are putting together a team to work on an issue that is important to you. Briefly describe that issue and what skills, experience, and expertise you would seek in your team members and why.

     Writing Prompt 2:

At the WSU Honors College we realize that applicants cannot be reduced to their academic transcripts. Pick one activity or experience and explain how it illustrates an important aspect of who you are and how it reflects on your own values or those of your community.

Submit Your Essays for Review Here

Transfer students.

Students who are coming to WSU with college credits earned after high school are considered Transfer Students. If you have earned college credits while in high school, you are still considered a first-year student, please follow the instructions above.

Have a Cumulative College GPA of 3.5 or Higher

Schedule an honors advising appointment, current wsu students, frequently asked questions.

How long should my essays be? Each essay should be approximately one page each (400-500 words per essay).

What format should my essays be in? There are no strict guidelines on the format, but when in doubt, Times New Roman size 12pt. We do request that you label your essays “Essay 1” and “Essay 2” and save them as one document or PDF. Please title your final document “Last Name, First Name” (eg. Smith, Mary.pdf or Patel, David.docx).

What is the minimum high school GPA for applicants to be considered? We will consider all applications, regardless of high school GPA.

How are the admission decisions made for The Honors College? Each essay is evaluated by members of our faculty. We use a standardized rubric that assigns a score to your essays as well as your unweighted high school GPA. Decisions are based on the combination of these scores.

What are the evaluators looking for in the essays? Evaluating faculty are looking for the basics, such as spelling, grammar, and continuity of thought. They are also looking for critical thinking and creativity in your problem-solving. Your essays will also be evaluated in how they relate to the prompts, so please read the prompts carefully.

What if I do not hear back within a month of applying? The Honors College receives many applications throughout the year. We kindly ask for your patience, as it can take up to 2 months to receive a response. If you do not receive a response within 60 days, please feel free to email  [email protected] , and we can check the status of your application.

What if I/my student receives a denial letter from the WSU Honors College? Please  schedule an advising appointment  and we would be happy to explain your options to you.

If you have any other questions about the application, please feel welcome to contact us directly at [email protected]  .

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Honors at Auburn

The Honors College is a place where you can honor your dreams. Whether you aspire to enter the workforce, pursue a graduate degree, or help make the world a better place through dedicated service, the Honors College at Auburn University can help you acquire the skills and experiences necessary to make your dreams come true.

Discover the resources, opportunities, and benefits the Honors College offers our students.

If you have received an invitation to apply, or hope to receive one, learn more about our streamlined application process..

Have questions? We have answers. We’ve listed some of the most common questions we hear from prospective students and their families.

Learn more about the Honors College through a one-on-one meeting with our recruitment team! Our Honors Ambassadors will share more about their Honors experience, while covering everything Honors including our flexible curriculum designations, membership benefits, student involvement opportunities, application process, and more.

Visit Us Old

Interior design and business students find an unexpected partner in The Jule Museum when applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios as part of their Auburn academic experience.

July 24, 2024

Victoria Ashley, an Honors College rising senior studying political science, was awarded Hertog Foundation Political Studies Fellow thanks partly to her profound commitment to political studies and a drive to impact public policy.

July 08, 2024

Auburn’s Honors College has been named among the top 50 programs in the nation according to College Transitions. With an overall ranking of 39, Auburn is among a handful of SEC institutions recognized and is the only institution in Alabama included in this year’s rankings.

June 28, 2024

9:30 am - Noon

It's a jungle out there! So stop by Cater Hall on the first day of school to pick up your free Survival Kit! We'll have a bag of goodies for Honors students on the front porch of Cater Hall

Need a pick-me-up? Cup at Cater is back! Stop by Cater Hall on August 21 for a free cup of iced coffee and breakfast snacks! This monthly Honors College tradition is one not to miss!

Stop by Cater Hall to learn more about everything Honors! Meet your advisors, visit with staff, learn about where our study &  travel courses will take us, and find out how you can get involved with our student organization - Honors Congress!

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Honors College

Incoming first-year and transfer students, if you have not yet submitted your university of utah general admission application:.

You can apply to the Honors College through the University of Utah general admissions application. The Honors College has two essay prompts. The prompts are provided within the application and essays should be uploaded to the U application.

General Admission Application

If you have already submitted your University of Utah general admission application:

Please use this form to amend your application of admission to the University of Utah to add intent to apply to the Honors College.

Honors College Application Amendment

This form must be completed by December 1 for priority consideration. The final deadline for consideration is February 1. When completing this form, you will need to upload one PDF with both of the following prompts answered:

• (In no more than 350 words) Intellectual Tradition courses in the Honors College help prepare students to make informed decisions about complex, interdisciplinary problems. Each course asks big or universal questions that transcend historical bounds. You are tasked with creating a new Intellectual Traditions course. Please name your course and describe the topics and questions it would cover. *Please review the Honors College website to get more information about  Intellectual Traditions  courses before responding to the prompts.
• (In no more than 350 words) What is it that interests you about the Liberal Arts and Sciences education (hint: look this term up) offered by the Honors College?

This application should be completed in one sitting. You will not be able to return to the application if you leave before completing it.

Current Students

This application is for current University of Utah students who are interested in applying to the Honors College.

Current Student Application to the Honors College

First-year students may apply as early as the end of their first full semester at the University of Utah, after grades post.

This application should be completed in one sitting. You will not be able to return to the application if you leave before completing it. You should have your essay complete and ready to put in the application, along with an unofficial copy of your University of Utah Transcript.