Student Admission Criteria
While all of the expectations listed below are important, the Honors Admissions Council considers each applicant individually and comprehensively. Selection to the program is competitive and applications are considered as they are received. Since there are limited spaces available in our program, early application to ISU and the University Honors Program can significantly improve a student’s chances of admission.
Freshmen Admission
- High school GPA of 3.6 or better
- Minimum ACT composite of 25 (SAT of 1130)
- Letter of reference from a high school teacher, official, or non-related individual (Principal, Assistant Principal, Counselor, or someone who can speak to the applicant's academic abilities)
- Writing sample (preferably 3-5 pages; please supply teacher’s name, class, and date written)
- List of classes taken and grades earned in Mathematics, English, Social Studies, and Natural Sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry)
Sophomore and Junior Admission
Continuing ISU students or transfer students with a 3.5+ GPA and over 26+ credits may apply to the honors program by submitting an application and a writing sample. They may participate in the first or second year options and then complete the upper division program. They must have completed the equivalent of ENGL 101 with a grade of B or better. Juniors must have completed the equivalent courses for general education goals 1, 2, and 3 with grades of B or better in each. Transfer students may apply up to 9 credits of honors work from other institutions towards Honors Distinction, and up to 12 credits of honors work towards the Honors Degree. Students admitted to the UHP should schedule an advising appointment with the UHP Director or Associate Director as soon as admission confirmation is received.
International Students
International students may be considered for freshman admission upon recommendation by the International Admissions Advisor and special consideration by the Honors Director or Associate Director.
Transfer Students
Transfer students who have a deficiency in goal 1, 2, or 3 take a goal course in the first semester at ISU. If it is Goal 1, HONS 101-102 will be allowed, providing the equivalence to ENGL 101 has been met with a grade of B or better. Students with special circumstances will be considered on a case by case basis. If you are interested in special University Honors Program consideration, please contact the University Honors Program Director (Dr. Cynthia Hill, email hillcynt@isu.edu), or Associate Director (Dr. Peter Vik, email vikpete@isu.edu), or call the University Honors Program at 208-282-3662.