Application Tips

The essays are important.  We cannot emphasize this fact enough.  A lot of thought and time goes into choosing the essay prompts, and each applicant's essays are read by two people.  These scores carry significant weight in our application review.

List activities that demonstrate superior involvement or commitment.  Leadership positions in school or community organizations are rated highly.  Participation in varsity athletics requires a significant time commitment and is rewarded in our application process; serving as a team captain shows an even higher level of involvement. Creative endeavors such as music, dance, and theater help show that you are a well-rounded person.  High school journalism activities (student newspaper, yearbook, etc.) are valued as well. Non-school activities that require substantial effort (e.g., Boy/Girl Scouts, church groups, community service) are also viewed favorably.  Other valued activities include student government and academic research.  Examples of possible responses may be found here.

Apply only if you are really interested.  Read about the Honors philosophy here.  If you find this appealing, then please submit an application.  Honors at UF is different from high school honors in the following sense--high school honors is based on a culture of achievement; university honors is a culture of engagement.  Nearly all of UF's students are high achievers, but Honors students are looking to take full advantage of the intellectual, cultural, and extracurricular opportunities on campus.  If that describes you, then please consider submitting an application. 

Answers to some frequently asked questions may be found here.