Application Process for First-Time Freshmen

First-year applicants to the University of Maryland are automatically considered for admission to the Honors College when they submit a completed undergraduate application to the University by the preferred November 1 deadline and are admitted. There is no separate addendum or special application for the Honors College.

Invitations to the Honors College are extended to new first-year students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and promise. Students’ applications are carefully evaluated on the basis of academic achievement in high school, rigor of high school program, application essays, letters of recommendation, participation in extracurricular activities (including work and home responsibilities), and standardized test scores. There are no numerical thresholds (such as a minimum SAT/ACT or GPA) to be considered for Honors College admission although most successful applicants are among the most academically motivated and talented students in our pool by these measures. The Honors College welcomes a nationally and internationally diverse group of students each year. There is no quota for in-state versus out-of-state students.

Once students are admitted to the Honors College (in late January), students are then asked which of the Living-Learning Programs capture their interest. There are six to choose from: Digital Cultures and Creativity, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Gemstone, Honors Humanities, Integrated Life Sciences, and University Honors.

In addition to participating in a living-learning program, Honors students may also wish to participate in a Departmental Honors Program in their academic major. Entrance to most Departmental Honors Programs is by application in the sophomore or junior year.