Apply to the Honors Program
Admission Guidelines
The Bellarmine Honors Program welcomes a diverse group of talented and motivated students from all disciplines. Whether you’re applying as a first-year student, a transfer, or a continuing student, we look for individuals who are intellectually curious, academically accomplished, and eager to engage deeply with a rigorous and dynamic learning environment.
Incoming First-Year Students
The Honors Program is open to all incoming first-year students who demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a passion for learning. To apply, students must complete a separate Honors Program application, which will be reviewed by the Honors Program Director and members of the Honors Council.
We evaluate each application holistically, considering not only your academic achievements—such as GPA and test scores—but also your intellectual curiosity, drive, and enthusiasm for pursuing a challenging, discussion-based academic experience. The Honors Council looks for students who exhibit a genuine commitment to exploring new ideas, taking initiative, and contributing meaningfully to the academic community.
Accepted students will be notified in the spring prior to their matriculation at Bellarmine.
In addition to the standard admissions process, incoming first-year students accepted into the Honors Program may be eligible for the Bellarmine Fellows and Scholars Awards. These prestigious awards recognize students who have demonstrated exceptional academic promise, leadership potential, and a commitment to the values of a Bellarmine education. Recipients are selected through a competitive process and receive a generous scholarship package, along with opportunities for specialized mentorship, leadership development, and participation in exclusive academic and extracurricular experiences throughout their time at Bellarmine. To be considered for these awards, applicants must apply to the Honors Program by December 1.
Transfer and Continuing Students
We also invite transfer students and continuing students who have demonstrated outstanding
academic performance and leadership to apply for the Honors Program. If you’re already
enrolled at Bellarmine and excel in your studies during your first year, you may be
eligible for admission into the program. The Honors Council will review your academic
record, achievements, and potential for growth.
Submit Your Honors Application Today
Admission to the Honors Program
The Bellarmine Honors Program is open to qualified, motivated students of all majors. Admission is competitive and requires a separate application, which is reviewed by the Honors Program Director and Council. We evaluate students holistically, considering academic performance, intellectual curiosity, and potential for growth. Incoming first-year students apply in the spring prior to matriculation, while transfer students and current Bellarmine students are encouraged to apply after demonstrating strong academic achievement.
Explore the Bellarmine Honors Program and find out how you can join a community that values intellectual curiosity, embraces diverse perspectives, and prepares students to make a difference in the world.
Incoming First Year Students
The Bellarmine Honors Program application is available to students admitted for Fall 2026. Applications submitted by December 1 will be considered for the Bellarmine Scholars Award, the Bellarmine Fellows Award, and admission to the Honors Program. Applications submitted after December 1 will be considered for Honors Program admission only.
Incoming Transfer Students
To be considered for admission to the Honors Program for fall entry, students should submit their application by August 1. Applications submitted by this deadline will be reviewed for fall admission. To be considered for spring entry, applications must be submitted by December 1, and will be reviewed for spring admission accordingly.
Current Bellarmine Students
Current Bellarmine University students who are interested in joining the Honors Program are encouraged to apply. Eligibility is limited to students in their first or sophomore year at the time of application. If admitted, students will begin participation in the Honors Program in the following academic term.