Honors College
For over 65 years, Honors College students have created unique and enriched academic programs within a top global university that offers an abundance of life-changing opportunities.
Honors College membership provides:
- unparalleled flexibility with standard curricular requirements
- the opportunity to major in any area or residential college
- small honors classes that explore topics in depth and encourage student interaction
- comprehensive advising services from both faculty in the chosen major and Honors College staff
- significant involvement in faculty-led and independent scholarly and research opportunities
- enrollment priority after the first year
- a vast range of special programs, international study options, cultural and social activities, and community service opportunities
Criteria
Students in the Honors College first-year class typically have a combination of the following:
- cumulative grade point averages that place students in the top 5% of students in their graduating class (GPA and strength of schedule is used when rank is not available)
- a high number of rigorous courses including AP, IB or dual enrollment, as appropriate given what the school offers
- an average 32 ACT composite
- an average 1410 SAT (ERW +M)
- leadership activities
- research interests
- community service involvement
The Honors College may also request other information, such as seventh semester grades, before extending an invitation for membership.
For more details, including how to send additional information for consideration, please visit the Honors College website.
Honors College fast facts
- Honors College is a community of more than 4,000 academically talented undergraduate students.
- One quarter of first-year students are from outside Michigan.
- Two-thirds of graduates participated in undergraduate research.
- Approximately half of graduates studied abroad at least once.
- Nearly all (97%) of graduates are placed in graduate school or work.
- Approximately 50-65% of Honors College graduates go directly on to graduate or professional schools after graduation.
Academic Scholars Program
The Academic Scholars Program, limited to 200 students, is open by invitation to high-achieving incoming first-year students who may be interested in joining the Honors College after their first semester or year. High-achieving high school students will be invited in March to the Academic Scholars Program following admission to Michigan State University. After being notified of eligibility, students who respond will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Explore the Honors College
Learn more about MSU's Academic Scholars Program