Post-Freshman Admission

Current U of M-Twin Cities and transfer students are accepted into the University Honors Program every fall semester on a space-available basis.

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Eligibility Considerations

In order for your application for Fall 2026 admission, you must have:

  • a planned graduation date of Spring 2028 or later
  • at least two Fall and two Spring semesters remaining
     

A strong application typically includes:

  • a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or higher
  • a demonstrated or expressed interest in a faculty-mentored scholarly or creative project, in detail.
  • a description of academic/co-curricular engagement (e.g., service learning, learning abroad, interdisciplinary interests, leadership, internship, etc.)
  • an essay describing a significant project the student would like to pursue and how the resources and opportunities offered by UHP will support this project, in detail 


In the students' essays, we are looking for compelling and/or inspired content that addresses all of the prompts, including how UHP will help them complete their project. We also evaluate the overall quality of writing (grammar, clarity, organization, and skillful expression) in the essays. 

General Timeline

  • October: Application Opens
  • November-January: Information Sessions
  • February 1: Application Deadline (current students)
    • Transfer student application deadline is June 1
    • Transfer student applicants for CCAPS and Mortuary Science deadline is August 1
  • March: Decisions announced (current students)
    • Transfer student decisions announced mid-June

What To Expect On The Application

Students will be expected to answer questions on research interests or experiences, co-curricular engagement during their time as a college student, and provide an essay outlining their academic goals, objectives, and how they plan to engage with the honors program. Students should answer all questions on the application.

Note: UHP prohibits the use of generative AI when writing application essays or responding to short-answer questions. The application essay scoring rubric favors applications with strong personal voice, perspectives, and experiences. The use of general and cliché language, which is often found in generative AI tools, will likely result in a lower score. We value your authentic thoughts and reflections as they contribute to a more meaningful and insightful application.

If you have any questions regarding your UHP admissions decision, please contact the University Honors Program at [email protected] no later than two weeks following notification of your decision.

Honors Requirements for PFA Students

Post-freshman students admitted to the University Honors Program must complete all of the following Honors requirements during their time in the program to receive Latin Honors:

  • Nova Lecture Series
  • 3 Honors courses (one of which will be an Honors Seminar)
  • 1-3 Honors experiences (2-4 experiences waived based on entry and expected graduation term)
  • Thesis supporting coursework
  • Honors thesis
  • 60 credits over the span of two academic years (including two fall and two spring semesters)
  • Regular and consistent advisor meetings

Questions?