Academic Standards
ACU's Honors College follows the democratic "leaven the lump" design rather than the elite "jewel in the academic crown" design. Rather than groom a few superstars, we spread the benefits of honors coursework and fellowship as far as possible. Thus the honors admission standards are flexible enough to attract the creative, unconventional student of high ability as well as the National Merit Scholar. Standards for continuing in the program are modest enough to let Honors students lead well-rounded lives, participating in student government, internships, social clubs, church work, and other activities as well as study and lab work.
How to Apply
Before you can be scheduled for honors classes, submit the Honors College Application including the resume and Honors Application Essay. If possible, submit them as part of the online Honors application on this site, copying and pasting them into it. Otherwise, please request an application by e-mail (bethany.scroggins@acu.edu), by phone (325-674-2728), or in person (100 Zellner Hall) and return it to ACU Honors College, ACU Box 29142, Abilene, Texas 79699-9142 or fax 325-674-6581.
Admission Standards for First-Year Students
For first-year students, Honors College admission is granted on four criteria:
First-year students must meet all four criteria even if they have earned college credit through dual enrollment, credit-by-examination (CLEP, AP, etc.) or summer school.
***If your test scores or grades are slightly lower than these standards, contact the Honors College office. The dean can admit you on probation if you offer other evidence of high aptitude and motivation. Use the Comments box on the online application (or attach a note to a paper application) to explain any extenuating circumstances and to describe ways you can demonstrate your honors capability (e.g., high school transcript, recommendation letter, academic awards). Please mention it if you plan to retake the entrance exam.
Exceptions:
Deadlines
We recommend that new students apply to the Honors College by March 12, 2010 for the fall semester. All applications received before March 12 will receive a response by April 30, 2010. Applications received after March 12th will receive a final decision by our final deadline, which is June 30, 2009. You are eligible to register for honors courses after we confirm your admission into the Honors College. You must send us the application, including your resume, and an application essay. Only after we read the resume and essay and check your scores and grades are you officially admitted. Only then can your request for an Honors course schedule be processed.
Entering the Honors College by March 12 gives you the advantage of Early Registration. If you enter later, there's a greater chance that certain classes will already be full.
Admission Standards for Continuing Students and Second- or Third-Year Transfers
Admission is granted on your academic record in college courses. No test scores or essay are required. Continuing students may apply any time if they fully intend to do honors coursework.
Transfer Students
If you have honors program credit at your first school, you should consult our staff about counting part of it toward ACU Honors requirements. We have articulation agreements with several honors programs at two-year schools.
Continuing ACU Students
To remain in the program, freshmen must maintain a 3.2 cumulative GPA in their ACU courses. Sophomores must maintain a 3.3, and juniors a 3.4. Graduating seniors must have a 3.5 to receive University Honors or Departmental Honors.
Students who slip below the level for their classification have a one-semester grace period called "Honors grade probation." This status is confidential between the student and the Honors office staff and lets the student keep all entitlements to honors classes, social events, and benefits.
