FAQ

Will all my courses be Honors courses?
No. Most students will take two to four Honors courses each year out of an average of eight to ten semester courses. Some tracks (such as engineering) will require students to take a more significant number of Honors courses due to the sequential nature of their coursework. We encourage all Honors students to take full advantage of the Honors curriculum. All students will be asked to participate in a minimum number of Honors courses and Honors experiences each year in order to continue in the program. Honors Experiences may include significant internships, research, study abroad, and more.

Won't being in Honors lower my grades and make it more difficult to get into graduate school?
No. You should not expect your grades in Honors courses to be lower than your grades in non-Honors courses. Faculty teaching Honors courses are aware of the ability and motivation of Honors students as well as the level of work required in Honors courses and grade accordingly. Moreover, many students find that since they are more motivated in Honors courses, they get better grades in them. Most students earn high grades in Honors courses. Graduate and professional schools (as well as employers) evaluate the quality of courses, not just grade point average. Admissions officers and prospective employers 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 study in any way?
No. All opportunities available to non-Honors students are available to you. UHP enriches your learning experience and offers you more options.

I've been invited to join UHP. 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. Students are admitted to UHP because we recognize their potential to succeed in our curricular and co-curricular opportunities. Most new students find that Honors provides extra help, not extra pressure. Honors advantages begin immediately with admission to the program. We provide our UHP admits with everything they need to know before they arrive on campus. It is important for our students to get to know us and for us to get to know them as soon as possible.

Are Honors courses more difficult than non-Honors courses?
Most Honors courses move at a quicker pace and cover material in greater depth. They might require additional reading or writing. The major difference is not how much you do, but what you do and how the work is approached. Students say Honors courses require less "busy work" and more active involvement, with the total workload being about the same. Moreover, Honors advisors help students select courses appropriate to their needs.

Does being in Honors cost more?
No. Tuition and fees are the same whether you are in Honors or not. There are no extra costs whatsoever. In fact, participation in Honors may help you win additional merit-based aid as a freshman and as a continuing student.

How do I get an application to the University ?
The on line application is availble at: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Admissions site, or call them at 612-625-2008; elsewhere in Minnesota or out of state, call 1-800-752-1000. or write 240 Williamson Hall, 231 Pillsbury Drive S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455 to request a paper application.

How do I apply to Honors?
All outstanding students whose application indicates they are well prepared to excel in their intended area of study will be considered for Honors. UHP Admission is competitive. We carefully review each application and decisions are based on an overall assessment of a student’s application. Some students may be asked to submit supplemental materials such as a letter of recommendation and a goal statement to be considered for Honors.

Students already attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities may apply as early as April 15 for fall of the following year. (This application will become available in January.)

Transfer Students will be admitted based on previous overall performance as well as discipline specific performance. Students must be admitted to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities prior to being considered for Honors admission. However, the application for admission to UHP may be submitted in advance of admission to the University.

How can I get more information?
The University Honors Program staff will be happy to answer your questions. Simply call (612) 624-5522, or write the University Honors Program, 20 Nicholson Hall, 216 Pillsbury Dr. SE, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, honors@umn.edu . We will be glad to meet with you (and your parents) if you want a personal orientation to UHP. Please give us advance notice of your visit. Call the VISITLINE (612) 625-0000 to make reservations for a campus tour and visit with Honors.