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How do I apply to be in the Honors Program?
The University Honors Program requires a short, but separate, application. The application can be completed online, or you can download a paper application and then mail it to: Honors Program, Chapman University, One University Drive, Orange, CA 92866.

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What is the deadline to apply?
The application review process for fall usually begins at the end of March. Applications received prior to April 15 will be reviewed by May 1.  The entrance process continues after that date, however, until the program is full.

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How many students are accepted into the Honors Program?
The program accepts a limited number of students per year and seeks a balance in the student composition, including majors. The program best serves students who approach their education in a mature and responsible manner. Once accepted, students are expected to be active participants in Honors activities.

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What are the requirements to be accepted into the Honors Program?
A successful candidate for the University Honors Program will exhibit a strong motivation for interdisciplinary studies and an enthusiastic commitment to learning. Applicants typically have a first-rate GPA and highly competitive SAT and ACT scores.  Other criteria may include outstanding leadership and/or creative achievement, community involvement, and a range of interests and experiences.

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Do I have to be accepted into the Honors Program to take Honors classes?
Yes, except on rare occasions. Students not in the Honors Program need prior approval from the instructor of the class and the Honor Program's director. The Honors courses are designed for students who are willing to engage in an intellectually demanding course of studies.

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Can I apply after my freshman year, or if I am a transfer student?
Yes. There is no requirement that you have to be in the program all four years. If you start later but plan to finish the requirements before graduation, you can apply.

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What if I want to study abroad?
Studying abroad for a semester can count as one of the Honors elective courses.

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What requirements do Honors students need to meet?
Students must complete eight Honors courses, including the Honors Capstone, for a minimum of 24 credits. These need to include one course from each of the four main areas of study: Arts and Letters; Mathematics, Science and Technology; Religious and Philosophical Studies; Social and Historical Studies. Transfer students with 60 units or more prior to matriculation take five Honors courses, including the Honors Capstone. In addition, incoming and transfer students must take the 1-credit Honors Forum their first year at Chapman. One course must be taken in each of the four areas; three of the five courses must be at the 300 level or above.

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How does Honors fit into the CU curriculum?
The program satisfies the Inter-Multidisciplinary GE cluster, which every student must complete. Select Honors courses may also satisfy other major, minor or GE requirements.

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Can students create their own courses?
Yes. Students have the option of creating preceptorials, which are student-designed and student-directed courses offered during interterm sessions under the supervision of a faculty preceptor. Planning begins several semesters in advance.

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Do I need to maintain a certain GPA in order to remain in the Honors program?
Yes. To remain in the program, Honors students are expected to hold a 3.3 GPA by the end of their sophomore year and maintain it through their senior year. If a student's GPA drops below 3.3, the student is on probation, with the expectation that the GPA will return to the required level by the end of the next semester. The student should also consult with the director during this period.