Honors Programs

Xavier challenges students to reach their fullest potential. Our honors programs help students refine their academic focus, expand their interests and unlock new possibilities. Fall 2024 applications are now open.

A Xavier professor and student sitting at a desk while looking at an open laptop screen.

Program Options

Xavier University’s honors programs offer students a uniquely rewarding intellectual experience combining enhanced academic scholarship and innovative experiential learning opportunities. Through an interdisciplinary curriculum, faculty mentorship, and leadership development, Xavier honors programs prepare students to engage and succeed in an increasingly diverse, complex, and interdependent world.

Explore All Honors Programs
Data Science (B.S.)
Philosophy, Politics and the Public (H.A.B.)
Smith Scholars
University Scholars

The D'Artagnan Statue in front of Cintas Center points it's finger toward the sky while the sun sets.

Honors Advantage

All honors programs offer participation in a unique community of highly-motivated students and top-notch professors. The programs are challenging but the rewards great, and the amenities are designed to support the stepped-up expectations.

Explore Honors Amenities

A Xavier student sits at a desk while looking at the screen on a laptop

Post-Graduate Resources

Xavier honors students pursue a variety of ventures after graduating. Typical post-graduate opportunities include medical and law school, Jesuit Volunteer Corps, and graduate school.

Explore Post-Graduate Opportunities

Two Xavier graduates hug on their graduation day. They are both wearing navy blue graduation caps and gowns.

Apply Now

Admission to university honors programs is separate from the general admission process. Interested students should apply to the program of their choice. Xavier will continue to accept honors applications throughout the spring on a rolling, space-available basis.

Apply Now

REQUIREMENTS

Admission to Xavier University honors programs is competitive. Admitted students generally rank in the top 15 percent of their high school class and present composite scores of at least 1300 (SAT) or 29 (ACT) if they choose to submit their standardized test scores. In addition to the guidelines for academic scholarship, prospective students need to complete an application form, which includes a brief essay or project. An interview may also be requested at the discretion of the program director.

Application to Xavier Honors Programs for Fall 2024 is test-optional. Applicants will be equally considered regardless of score submission. The choice to include or exclude ACT/SAT scores from consideration is made in the initial application to Xavier. If students do choose to submit their scores as part of their initial application to Xavier, those scores may be reviewed for consideration to honors programs.