Apply to the Honors Program

Qualifications — Who we’re looking for

The Honors Program is competitive. Our standards are high. Good grades are important but far from the most important trait. You are a solid candidate for the Honors Program if:

•You are up for an academic challenge — and ready to work hard in a community of bright, determined students and faculty

•You have the courage to explore and take a stand on social and ethical issues regarding justice, race, media, education, crime, law and social change

•You are curious, open-minded, and willing to consider different points of view, listen to others and engage in probing dialogue with professors and peers

•You have potential to be a leader — with a burning desire to shape ideas, influence people and change systems

•You have high aspirations in life — and want to do something important for yourself and to have a positive impact on your community

Eligibility & Requirements

Admission depends on high school GPA (minimum 89), writing sample, letters of recommendation and an interview. Students who meet the requirements below will be invited to apply to the program. Students must apply to the Honors Program through the application on the Honors website.

The application cycle for the entering class of 2026 is now open. Apply

Entering Freshmen (for students who have never attended college)

Minimum high school average of 89. This is computed by our Admissions Office as the “college admission average" (CAA).
One letter of recommendation from a teacher.
A high school transcript
Finalists will be interviewed by representatives of the Honors Program

Currently Enrolled Students (for students who are currently enrolled at John Jay)

A completed application submitted by the listed deadline.
Cumulative GPA: 3.3 or higher
A maximum of 75 credits earned when enrolling in the program.
A minimum of two years (four fall / spring semesters) remaining when enrolling in the program.
One letter of recommendation from a faculty member.
Student transcript
Finalists will be interviewed by a representative of the Honors program.

Transfer Students (students who will begin studying at John Jay in the spring semester)

A completed application submitted by the listed deadline.
Cumulative GPA: 3.3 or higher
A maximum of 75 credits earned when enrolling in the program.
A minimum of two years (four fall / spring semesters) remaining when enrolling in the program.
One letter of recommendation from a faculty member.
Student transcript
Finalists will be interviewed by a representative of the Honors program.