Frequently Asked Questions About Joining the Honors College for Transfer Students
The Honors College is a place where highly determined and inquisitive students work in conjunction to ask questions that allows them to engage with our world in meaningful ways. Transferring can be a daunting experience and this page serves as a resource for students who may have questions about the process and want to learn more about the Honors College to see if it is the right fit for them.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Honors College?
An enhanced opportunity for the most motivated students from all majors at Mason.
- Curriculum: The Honors College offers an enhanced alternative general education curriculum comprised of small, highly interactive seminar-type classes.
- Programming: The Honors College offers co-curricular programming to help students excel academically, connect socially, and pursue the things they care about most.
- Support: You will receive additional support from an Honors College advisor, help navigating your transition, and extra help if you run into challenges along the way.
What distinguishes the Honors College curriculum?
We focus on inquiry-based, civic, and experiential learning.
- Research: 100% of Honors College students begin conducting individual research their first semester. 44% conduct research with a faculty mentor before graduating.
- Civic learning: All Honors College students take a civic learning course. Since 2019, 33 regional nonprofits have partnered with students in our classes.
- Experiential learning: Students may participate in hands-on classes that develop professional skills. Honors College classes have hosted 53 distinct partner projects since 2019.
What is the value of the Honors College experience?
Learn with a community that inspires you to do your best.
- At Mason: Excellent graduation rates. Before graduation, 80% of ours students are in RSOs, with over half in leadership roles; 63% participate in service work; 73% have internships.
- In Grad School: Honors College grads attend the most prestigious graduate, law, and medical schools, from Harvard to Stanford and from UVA to University of California.
- Top Careers; Honors College grads work in leadership positions in every industry and field - in law firms, health systesms, corporations, and the government.
Who is my Honors College advisor?
Information about Honors College advising, including a list of advisors, can be found here.
How can I connect with the Honors College and my peers?
Interested students can join any of the Honors College student organizations listed below. Information about opportunities and events can also be found on the weekly Honors College newsletter.