Meet the minimum academic requirements. Keep in mind that the requirements will vary by college and according to your status as a freshman, continuing student or transfer student. For example, the Florida International University (or FIU) honors college requires a 3.5 GPA and 1850 SAT or 28 ACT score for incoming freshmen but transfer students and current FIU students must have a 3.3 GPA.
Gain full admission to the college or university of your choice. Admissions into an honors college is a separate admissions process. For example, if you're applying to the honors college at the University of Oklahoma, you must first complete enrollment into the University to Oklahoma.
Write an essay. Typically, a 400- to 500-word essay must accompany your honors college application. The essay topic is included with the honors college application. Your essay should demonstrate strong writing skills, original thoughts and passion. Make sure there are no typos or unclear ideas in the essay. A well-written essay increases your chances of gaining acceptance into the honors college.
Provide letters of recommendation. You may need 1 to 3 letters of recommendation. Make sure you have at least one letter from a high school principal, teacher, professor or counselor.
Obtain the honors college application, available through the honors college website. Fill it out and include your essay. Review your application for accuracy. Submit the completed application directly to the honors college. The college will notify you of your acceptance.