The University Honors Scholar designation represents the most comprehensive honors experience at Arkansas Tech University. Designed for high-achieving incoming freshmen, this four-year program combines 21 hours of Honors coursework, leadership development, community engagement, and a culminating senior project. Students admitted as a University Honors Scholar also receive the Honors Stipend, supporting their engagement in this enriched academic experience.

Deadline December 1

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Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the ATU University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a graduating high school senior admitted as a first-time, entering undergraduate student on ATU's main campus.
  • Have a minimum high school cumulative GPA of 3.50.
  • Have a minimum ACT Composite score of 27 (or equivalent SAT score).
  • Important: To be considered as a University Honors Scholar, you must apply for Admission to Arkansas Tech University by the Priority Deadline (December 1). You will indicate your interest in Honors as part of the ATU application and submit the required essay with your admission documents.

Application Information

Students who meet the eligibility requirements may apply to join the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar. Admission is highly competitive and seeks students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, passion for learning, and a clear sense of purpose—those eager to contribute to and benefit from an active community of scholars.

How to Apply:

To be considered for the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar at Arkansas Tech University, complete the following steps as part of your Admission application by the Priority Deadline (December 1):

  1. Apply for Admission to ATU by the Priority Deadline (December 1)
    Submit your undergraduate admission application along with:
    • A current high school transcript showing a minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA.
    • An ACT composite score of 27 or higher (or equivalent SAT score).
    • If using class rank to qualify, it must be documented on your transcript (top 10%).
  2. Indicate Your Interest in Honors
    During the application process, select that you would like to apply for the University Honors Program.
  3. Submit Your Honors Essay
    Upload an original essay (300–500 words) responding to one of the designated prompts. Essays must be your own work and not previously submitted for scholarships or competitions.

Note: All Documents must be on file by the Priority Deadline of December 1.

 

Essay Prompts: 

As part of your University Honors Scholar application, you will complete the “Honors Application: Essay” form in your ATU Application Portal (Slate).

This is your opportunity to showcase your critical thinking, creativity, and unique perspective. Your essay should reflect your own ideas and writing style. Please do not submit an essay previously used for scholarships or competitions—we’re looking for fresh, authentic responses.

Choose one of the following prompts:

  1. The Power of Perspective – Describe a time when your perspective on something significant changed. What led to that shift, and how did it impact you?
  2. Rewriting the Rules – If you could challenge a rule, tradition, or norm in society, what would it be and why?
  3. Unlikely Inspiration – What is something unexpected (a song, a moment, a person, a book, an experience) that has inspired or shaped you? How?

Submission Instructions:

To complete this requirement, fill out the “Honors Application: Essay” form in your ATU application portal. The form will ask you to:

  • List your academic honors and awards (including the years received)
  • List your most important extracurricular projects or programs
  • Copy and paste your 300–500 word original essay in the text box provided

Before submitting, make sure your essay is:

  • Well-organized and clearly written
  • Carefully proofread for spelling and grammar
  • Entirely your own original work

We're excited to read your response and learn more about you through your writing!

Application Review Process:

Once the Admissions Priority Deadline (December 1) has passed:

  • Completed applications (including essays) will be reviewed.
  • Interview invitations will be sent to your ATU email account, so check it regularly.
  • Interviews are held shortly after the Priority Deadline passes (specific dates will be posted when available, typically in January).

Honors Stipend Consideration:

Admission to the University Honors Program as a University Honors Scholar is highly competitive and space is limited. Students who are admitted may be eligible to receive a University Honors Stipend. This stipend is awarded in addition to any scholarships that may be offered by Arkansas Tech University or other sources.

Important Notes:

  • Late applications will not be considered.
  • To be eligible as a University Honors Scholar, you must meet the Admissions Priority Deadline of December 1.

 

 

Graduation requirements

To graduate as a University Honors Scholar, students must complete all academic and engagement requirements outlined below while maintaining high academic and ethical standards.

Academic Requirements

    • Complete 21 hours of Honors coursework, including:
      • HONR 1003: Honors Dialogue and Inquiry
      • HONR 4093: Senior Honors Project
      • 15 additional hours of Honors-designated coursework

    • Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 each semester

In addition to coursework, University Honors Scholars complete developmental experiences that foster leadership, service, and mentorship throughout their academic journey.

Explore the requirements for each year below:

Graduation Distinction

Students who complete all academic and engagement requirements graduate with the designation of University Honors Scholar, an achievement recognized on both the transcript and diploma. Graduates also receive an Honors medallion to wear during commencement, and their names are included in the Honors section of the commencement program.