Honors Program
Challenge yourself to reach beyond your horizons
The Honors Program empowers students to become inquisitive, innovative, and inspirational leaders capable of fruitful careers, effective service and wise citizenship. The rigorous curriculum sharpens students’ ability to question, contemplate, articulate, organize and act. An empowering education to unlock a brighter tomorrow.
Highlights of the Honors Program
- Six free tuition credits per academic year can facilitate double majors or broaden the educational experience with no financial burden.
- AMEX Grants awarded 2X a year to applicants for academic experiences such as study abroad, research and conference or workshop attendance/presentation.
- Merit-based scholarships and other awards available.
- Dedicated residence hall floor for first-year residents.
- A Core Curriculum whose requirements, though rigorous, allow for majors in even the most demanding disciplines.
Admission into Iona University's Honors Program
Invitations to join the Honors Program are based on a student's most recent academic record, SAT (if submitted), rigor of coursework, and application to the University. Honors invitees typically have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and a combined SAT score above 1260 or ACT score of 26 (if submitted).
All Honors Program candidates will be evaluated for Iona University’s most prestigious scholarships. These scholarships are awarded on a highly-competitive basis upon a thorough review of a student's academic record, GPA, rigor of coursework, and application credentials.
Application Process and Timeline
For consideration to the Honors Program, students must adhere to the following admissions application deadlines:
- Early Decision (binding): December 1, 2024
- Early Action I/Health Sciences Priority (non-binding): December 15, 2024
- Early Action II (non-binding): January 15, 2025
- Regular Decision: February 15, 2025
- Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025
The Honors Program definitely made adjusting to college much easier. When we had papers due, we’d stay up late together trying to get our work done. It made me feel like I wasn’t alone because we were all going through the same thing.
KaraBrann Williams ’21
Read More About KaraBrann
Honors Program Benefits
Academics
Honors Program students sharpen their intellectual abilities through a rigorous core curriculum. Other academic benefits include:
- Small class sizes which encourage confident participation and promote close relationships with your Honors peers and faculty.
- Priority course registration to ensure you receive your preferred courses and schedule.
- Exclusive Honors classes throughout one’s years of study.
- Honors Thesis – a substantial research project in an area of scholarship of your choice and completed with the guidance of a thesis adviser.
Scholarships & Grants
Honors Program students have priority access to many prestigious scholarships and grants to help fund tuition costs as well as other academic pursuits. Scholarship and grant opportunities available to you as an Honors student include:
- Iona University merit-based scholarships
- American Express Grant Fund – can provide funding for projects or experiences that enrich your undergraduate education.
Honors Community
As an Honors Program student, you will be welcomed into a community of other students who share your passion for learning and can offer support and a friendly face on campus! You can look forward to:
- Living on an all-honors floor in your residence hall. Residential and commuter Honors students enjoy special programming as part of the Honors floor, including an Honors program Resident Assistant.
- Participating in special events, outings and activities on and off campus with other Honors students because everyone needs a healthy balance of academics and fun!
Learn More about Iona's Honors Program
Explore Iona's Honors Program further. Learn more about the registration process, courses for honors students and more.