Admission Requirements
How We Review Applications
The SF Honors Program application is holistic. We're not looking for a test score or a perfect GPA — we're looking for evidence of three core qualities: a strong foundation in challenging, college-level work; the ability to communicate clearly and thoughtfully; and a record of engagement that goes beyond traditional expectations. We want to understand what motivates you, how you approach learning, and whether you're ready to commit to what the Honors Program offers.
Applications are reviewed on a per-term cycle by an interdisciplinary admissions committee that includes Honors Program faculty and staff members. Every application is reviewed in full. The benchmarks below are starting points. If you don't meet every one, you are encouraged to apply and highlight your individual strengths.
In reviewing applications, our committee seeks students who:
- Have a demonstrated record of success in challenging, college-level coursework.
- Possess well-developed communication skills.
- Engage beyond traditional expectations, in or outside of the classroom.
Requirements by Applicant Type
Entering from High School
| Criteria | Guidance |
|---|---|
| GPA | Strong high school GPA, ideally 3.5 or higher |
| Academic Record | Unofficial high school transcript required. AP, IB, dual enrollment, or honors-level coursework strongly considered. Credit-by-exam grades and scores (AP, IB, CLEP) are especially helpful. |
| Project | Upload a brief reflection on a project that demonstrates your strengths — submitted as an essay, video, or audio recording — plus supporting documentation that illustrates the project. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Optional. A letter from a teacher or instructor who can speak to your academic ability, communication skills, and engagement. |
Currently Enrolled at SF
| Criteria | Guidance |
|---|---|
| GPA | Strong cumulative GPA, ideally 3.25 or higher on recent college-level coursework |
| Academic Record | Unofficial SF transcript required. If graduated from High School within the last year, HS transcripts are helpful, as well. |
| Project | Upload a brief reflection on a project that demonstrates your strengths — submitted as an essay, video, or audio recording — plus supporting documentation that illustrates the project. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Optional, but especially helpful for currently enrolled SF students. A letter from an SF instructor or staff member can demonstrate that you are ready for the Honors Program. |
Transferring from Another College
| Criteria | Guidance |
|---|---|
| GPA | Strong cumulative GPA, ideally 3.25 or higher on recent college-level coursework |
| Academic Record | Unofficial college transcript(s) required. We consider your academic record in context of your coursework and institution. |
| Project | Upload a brief reflection on a project that demonstrates your strengths — submitted as an essay, video, or audio recording — plus supporting documentation that illustrates the project. |
| Letters of Recommendation | Optional. A letter from a college-level instructor who can speak to your academic work and engagement is especially helpful. |
No Fees, Ever. There are no application fees and no membership fees. Honors courses are priced at the same tuition and fee rates as standard SF courses.
What to Prepare Before You Start
- Your unofficial transcript (high school or college, depending on your applicant type)
- Credit-by-exam grades and scores, if applicable (AP, IB, CLEP)
- Your project reflection — a brief essay, video, or audio recording describing a project that demonstrates your strengths
- Documentation that illustrates your project (e.g., the project itself, photos, a link, or supporting materials)
- Up to two letters of recommendation from an instructor (optional — give them at least two weeks' notice if requesting one)