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How to apply

The University Honors Program offers exceptional academic and co-curricular opportunities designed to enhance your undergraduate education, regardless of your major or career goals. If you’re eager to learn and want to get the most out of your college experience, challenge yourself, and benefit from a supportive community of friends and mentors, the Honors Program might be the place for you!

a group image of the honors students

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This application category is for students who are in their senior year of high school or have graduated but not taken any college classes other than dual credit through their high schools. New freshmen are eligible to receive a renewable 4-year Distinguished Merit Scholarship, which provides an annual stipend and covers tuition and fees.
All applicants must meet at least ONE of the standards listed below and provide evidence of academic achievement and potential.
  • High School grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 in all college-level coursework is expected of applicants with more than fifteen hours of college credit earned through dual credit courses.
  • Graduation rank in the top 25%
  • Standardized Test Scores: SAT 1200+ or ACT 25+

Transfer students from other honors programs at other institutions, including San Jacinto Community College District, Houston Community College, or Lone Star College, are invited to continue their Honors Experience as members of the University Honors Program.

Transfer students need to complete the Honors application and provide the following documents:

  • Recommendation letter from Honors Director or Advisor affirming that the applicant is in Good Standing with their current institution.
  • Copies of transcripts documenting previously earned Honors credit.

Letters of recommendation and other documentation from community college Honors Programs should be sent via email to honors@uhd.edu and include the applicant's name in the subject line.

Students in all majors who are currently enrolled at UHD or who are joining as new transfer students are invited to apply to the University Honors Program.

Applicant criteria are as follows:

  • UHD or Incoming transfer GPA 3.2+
  • Credit for ENG 1301/1302
  • Will not have earned more than 36 hours of college credit prior to start of the next Fall semester

Application Process

The University Honors Program requires a separate application for admission beyond the UHD application. Any highly motivated student may apply to the Honors Program, but preference will be given to students who meet the eligibility criteria and whose applications demonstrates a history of sustained academic success and ongoing intellectual potential.

Applicants are encouraged to take advantage of the application process as an opportunity to elaborate on goals, highlight past achievements, and demonstrate future potential. The application typically requires an hour to complete. There is now a unified application portal found to the left of this page, for any further questions, e-mail the director for help.

Note: Students in the College of Sciences and Technology may participate in both the University Honors Program and the Scholars Academy; however, application processes are separate.

Students who have more than 36 hours of college credit, including dual credit, should contact the Honors Program Director to discuss options for application to the program.