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Visit & Apply to University Honors

If you are looking for a university that will match your drive, stretch your thinking, and support the person you are becoming, Rocky Top is ready for you. 

Find your next step toward University Honors at Rocky Top. 

Interested in University Honors at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville? Whether you are exploring your options, planning a campus visit, or getting ready to apply, this page will help you find the right next step. Use the links below to review important deadlines, learn how the application process works, schedule an in-person or virtual meeting, or explore transfer student information.

University Honors includes two signature programs.
The Chancellor’s Honors Program and Haslam Leadership Scholars are designed for high-potential students who want an elevated academic experience, strong community, and meaningful opportunities for leadership, growth, and impact.

How the University Honors Application Process Works

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University Honors welcomes applications from prospective first-year students and transfer students. Your pathway depends on where you are in your college journey. 

Important Deadline Note: Deadlines and application cycles can change from year to year. Always use the Important Dates & Deadlines page for the most current information.

First-Year Application

  1. Apply to UT by the early action deadline
  2. Watch your email for your University Honors invitation and application instructions.
  3. Review the current deadlines.
  4. Complete your University Honors application materials on time.

Request an Application

Has it been two weeks since you completed your application to UT and you still haven’t received an application? Click the button below to request an Honors application!

Request an Application

Transfer Application

If you are a transfer student, you can apply to the Chancellor’s Honors Program for a future fall start. Transfer students with more than 30 credit hours may also want to explore college or departmental honors opportunities in addition to University Honors. 

  1. Confirm your transfer application timeline for UT.
  2. Review University Honors transfer eligibility and expectations.
  3. Submit your transfer Honors application by the posted deadline.
  4. Plan for a fall start if selected.

Meet with University Honors

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A visit can help you decide whether University Honors is the right fit for your goals, interests, and college experience. Prospective students and families can schedule a 30-minute in-person or virtual meeting with a University Honors representative. 

  • In-person visits are available Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. 
  • Virtual visits are currently available Mondays through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. 
  • Submit visit requests at least three business days in advance. 
  • When schedules allow, you may also connect with an Honors Ambassador and hear directly from a current Honors scholar. 

Planning an in-person visit? If you are coming to Knoxville, we recommend pairing your University Honors meeting with a full University of Tennessee campus tour. 

What to Expect When You Meet with University Honors

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A visit is a great opportunity to ask specific questions about the honors experience and choose the next step that makes sense for you. 

  • The differences between the Chancellor’s Honors Program and Haslam Leadership Scholars 
  • What the student experience is like in University Honors 
  • Coaching, community, and academic opportunities 
  • What to know before applying 
  • How Honors fits into your larger UT experience 
  • Next steps for first-year or transfer students 

Quick Links

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I want to know when to apply

Important Dates & Deadlines →

I want to meet with someone first

Schedule a University Honors Meeting →

Virtual Information Session →

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Prospective first-year students should apply to UTK first by the early action deadline. Qualified students receive an email invitation with instructions for the University Honors application.

Yes. Transfer students can apply to the Chancellor’s Honors Program for a future fall start. Students with more than 30 credit hours may also want to explore college or departmental honors opportunities. 

Prospective students and families can schedule a 30-minute in-person or virtual meeting with a University Honors representative. Visit requests should be submitted at least three business days in advance.

Yes. If you are visiting Knoxville in person, we recommend pairing your Honors meeting with a full University of Tennessee campus tour. 

No, University Honors admission is only available to students entering UT as first-year student.