Application Process

The University Honors Program at California State University, Long Beach aims to attract students who are not only academically high achieving but also those who plan to be meaningfully engaged at CSULB, and with campus’ surrounding communities. Honors students are leaders, stewards of the environment, global citizens, out-of-the-box thinkers, and intrepid in their educational pursuits.

 

  • Cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • Ability to complete the unit requirements of the selected Honors Plan

*If some criteria are unmet and under special circumstances, applicants may be evaluated for special admissions consideration by the Honors Program Director

Applying for Fall Program Admittance

First Round with President’s Scholarships consideration (First-year, transfer, and continuing CSULB students*)

  • February 1 - Application opens
  • March 1 -  Application closes (Deadline for completed application and recommendation**)

*Continuing CSULB students are not eligible for the President's Scholarship.

**It is suggested that you submit your application at least a week prior to the deadline to give your recommender ample time to submit their recommendation on your behalf. 

Second Round (First-year, transfer, and continuing CSULB students)

  • March 15 - Application opens
  • May 15 -  Application closes (Deadline for completed application)

 

Applying for Spring Program Admittance

First Round (Transfer and continuing CSULB students)

  • September 1 - Application opens
  • October 1 -  Application closes (Deadline for completed application)

 

  • Your CSULB ID Number
    • This is your 9-digit student number that is provided to you on your admissions letter.
  • Unofficial Transcripts
    • Saved in PDF format
  • Recommender Contact Information (only needed for the President's Scholarship round Feb 1-March-1)
    • The individual (e.g., teacher, professor, counselor, etc.) who will be providing a recommendation for you.  
      • Please note: Your recommender will receive an email to submit a recommendation for you online after you submit your University Honors Application. Recommendations that speak to your promise or potential in your chosen field are preferred. It is suggested that you submit your application at least a week prior to the deadline to give your recommender ample time to submit their recommendation on your behalf.  
  • Personal Statement
    • ​Please make sure your statement fully addresses the four-part prompt.
    • In your essay, please:
  1. Explain how you think being part of the University Honors Program at CSULB will enhance your undergraduate experience;
  2. Discuss how your unique background (personal, cultural, community, academic, extra-curricular, professional or other experiences) has influenced your choice of major
  3. Exemplify how your background will enhance the UHP community’s social justice aims;
  4. Describe your dreams, leadership experiences and/or goals and one challenge you had to overcome (and what you learned from the experience).

The personal statement represents your opportunity to introduce yourself to the University Honors Program. Take time to thoughtfully reflect upon what you will write. A personal statement is unique to each individual so while no one “right” essay style exists, you may find these guidelines useful:

  • DO insert your full name and the date in your document header.  
  • DO use 12-point font and one-inch margins and write a maximum of two pages, double spaced (approx. 500 words).
  • DO proofread and edit carefully: avoid distracting your readers with preventable writing mistakes.
  • DO provide specific examples of your points: avoid vague generalities and unsupported assertions.
  • DO exercise critical thinking by providing a carefully considered statement: avoid cliches, quotations from others (we want to hear from you!), and grandiose claims.
  • DO give yourself enough time to submit your best draft by planning time for brainstorming, writing, proofreading, and editing.

 

If you are interested in on-campus housing, please visit the University Housing & Residential Life website.

  • Newly admitted University Honors students who are accepted into on-campus housing and select Honors as their first preference on their housing application will be placed in Honors House (Los Cerritos Residence Hall), subject to space availability. 
  • It is suggested to select roommates after your housing location is confirmed. 
  • All communications regarding housing and building placement will come from University Housing & Residential Life. 
  • If you have housing related questions, please Contact Housing & Residential Life