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Frequently Asked Questions
- Am I a transfer student or a current student?
- What if I don’t get into the Honors Program? Can I apply at a later time?
- Will all my courses be honors courses?
- Won't being in Honors lower my grades and make it more difficult to get into graduate school?
- Will being in Honors restrict my study in any way?
- I've been invited to join UHP. Shouldn't I wait until I see how I do at the University before I join Honors?
- Are honors courses more difficult than non-honors courses?
- Does being in Honors cost more?
- How do I get an application to the University of Minnesota?
- How can I get more information?
Am I a transfer student or a current student?
A transfer student is anyone whose first semester on the U of M—Twin Cities campus is fall 2010. Students who have been accepted to the U of M and will be on campus during spring semester 2010 should apply as Current U of M—students.
What if I don’t get into the Honors Program? Can I apply at a later time?
Yes. You may apply to UHP each spring for fall entrance as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and have four semesters left at the University upon entering the program. For more information see Admission for Current UMTC Students.
Will all my courses be Honors courses?
No. Although you are encouraged to take full advantage of the honors curriculum, most students take two to four honors courses per year, out of a total of eight to ten courses. All students must participate in a minimum number of honors courses per year in order to continue in the program. For more information on how honors courses count toward graduation with Latin honors, see Honors Requirements.
Won't being in Honors lower my grades and make it more difficult to get into graduate school?
No. The instructors who teach Honors courses are aware of the level of work required in Honors courses and grade accordingly. When reviewing transcripts most graduate and professional schools take the quality of coursework into consideration, not just grade point average. Admissions officers view honors courses as evidence that students are highly motivated and willing to work harder to get the most from their undergraduate education.
Will being in Honors restrict my undergraduate education in any way?
No. Honors advisors work closely with staff and faculty from across the University to make sure that the honors curriculum fits seamlessly into the rest of your undergraduate educational experience.
Shouldn't I wait until I see how I do at the University before I join Honors?
Absolutely not! Every year we talk to students who are sorry they waited to participate. Most new students find that UHP provides them with extra help, not extra pressure. We’re here to help you succeed!
Are honors courses more difficult than non-honors courses?
The nature of honors courses varies depending on the subject matter, but all honors courses engage you to think and learn in different and exciting ways. In many cases, the major difference between honors and non-honors courses is not the amount of work they require, but the kind of work they require. Some move at a quicker pace and cover material in greater depth. Others take a step back and look at material from a broader perspective. The total workload of honors courses is well calibrated to the ability of honors students. All honors courses offer challenges and rewards that students find beneficial. To learn more about honors courses, see the honors curriculum page.
Does being in Honors cost more?
No. There are no extra costs whatsoever. In the long run, graduating with Latin honors may even help you win merit-based aid if you choose to continue onto graduate or professional school.
How do I get an application to the University of Minnesota?
The online application is available at the U of M Office of Admissions Web site. You may also call them at 612-625-2008 (toll-free at 1-800-752-1000) or write to 240 Williamson Hall, 231 Pillsbury Drive S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455 to request a paper application.
How can I get more information?
The University Honors Program staff is here to answer your questions. Feel free to contact us:
612-624-5522;
20 Nicholson Hall
216 Pillsbury Drive SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Come visit us!
Make the University Honors Program part of your campus visit itinerary. The University of Minnesota Office of Admissions can arrange for you to talk to current honors students, meet with a UHP staff member, or sit in on an honors course. To arrange your visit, call the U of M Visit Office, 612-625-0000 or 1-800-752-100, or schedule online at admissionts.tc.umn.edu.