Honors

The Honors program is an opportunity for students who have shown potential for superior academic performance and who desire a highly engaging experience as an undergraduate. After admission to the university, all students who received a score of 2070 or above on the math, writing and critical reading sections of the SAT or a 33 composite score on the ACT are encouraged to apply. Honors program candidates also must have a weighted academic high school grade point average of 4.0 or higher, as computed by the Office of Admissions.

Students who do not have the requisite test scores and/or grade point average may apply via a petition process. Students who are not accepted as incoming freshmen may apply for the program via the lateral admission process after demonstrating their academic capabilities during the fall semester of their first year.

Honors program students are eligible for special honors classes, housing in the Honors Residential College at Hume Hall and participation in honors program student organizations.

Typically honors students enroll in at least one honors class per semester, although this can vary considerably depending upon academic interest. Students often find it more convenient to take honors courses during their first two years; however, they may enroll in honors courses throughout their undergraduate careers. Honors requirements are not in addition to general education requirements, but may be used to satisfy these requirements. The small classes and the academic ability of the students make possible more thorough inquiry into course materials and more independent work. Students enhance their skills through extensive reading, writing and oral presentations.

First- and second-year honors students receive early registration for their first 10 credits each semester. Early registration may be used for honors courses or courses within the major. To be eligible for early registration, students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0.

Students are encouraged to earn at least 14 honors points  during their four-year career at UF. Honors points are earned by completing various academic and enrichment activities. Students who earn 14 honors points and graduate with honors as defined by their college will receive a notation on their official UF transcript and a medallion to wear at commencement.

After reaching upper-division status, students work within their major to graduate with magna cum laude or summa cum laude recognition. Typically this requires the completion of a research or other appropriate project and a specific GPA, as established by the college of the major.