Choosing to join the University Honors Program (UHP) at NC State is a big step—one that opens the door to transformative learning, innovative coursework and a vibrant community. If you’ve recently been admitted, you might be wondering what comes next, how to prepare and what your experience will look like once you arrive on campus. Below, you’ll find your next steps and answers to the questions we hear most often from new Honors students.

Next Steps

Submit Your Acceptance and Check Your Email

Admitted students to the University Honors Program must complete this form to confirm or decline participation in the program. Once you accept your place in the University Honors Program, additional information about the Honors Village will be emailed to you—typically within two weeks of submitting your acceptance form. This message will walk you through housing details and next steps for securing your spot in the living and learning community.

Prepare for New Student Orientation

Your first introduction to the UHP takes place during New Student Orientation in the summer. Each orientation session includes a dedicated information session hosted by UHP staff for incoming Honors students and families. Note that UHP staff do not host an information session at make-up orientation sessions. This session covers program expectations, academic opportunities and resources available to you throughout your time at NC State. Before orientation, you’ll receive an email with details about when and where this session will occur.

If you’re unable to attend orientation, contact the UHP office at 919.515.2353.

Common Questions

Is there a cost to participate in the UHP?

Yes. The UHP has an annual Enhancement Fee that helps support the program’s academic, cultural and co-curricular experiences. The fee decreases each year you remain in the program:

• First year: $450
• Second year: $350
• Third year: $300
• Fourth year: $250

These funds directly support opportunities such as unique HON seminars, experiential learning trips, visiting speakers, cultural programming, study abroad, undergraduate research, community engagement and programming within the Honors Village.

What if I want to participate but can’t afford the fee?

The UHP welcomes talented students from all backgrounds. If the fee presents a financial barrier, you can submit a fee waiver request form.The fee waiver request form is included within the required Honors program commit or decline form. It is also available on our Moodle site, which students gain access to upon committing to the program. To be eligible, NC State must have a completed FAFSA on file for you.

What kinds of academic and co-curricular opportunities does the UHP offer?

Students in the UHP engage in a wide range of experiences designed to expand their thinking and connect them with the world:

• Nearly 50 interdisciplinary HON seminars, capped at 20 students each, emphasizing creative and critical thinking
• One- and two-credit courses, workshops and programming tied to contemporary issues, enduring ideas and undergraduate research
• Honors Forum, a zero-credit enrichment course that brings speakers, performers and cultural events to more than 1,400 students each year
• Summer study abroad programs in Florence, Italy; Oxford, England; and Seoul, South Korea
• Cultural, outdoor and career exploration trips across local, national and international destinations
• A strong residential community in the Honors Village on East Campus

How many students participate in the UHP?

Each August, the program welcomes approximately 600 first-year students, with an additional 100 students joining after their first semester. Altogether, there are typically around 2,500 active UHP students on campus each semester.

What does it mean to graduate with UHP recognition?

Completing the University Honors Program is an achievement that appears on your official NC State transcript and in the printed commencement program. Graduates also receive a certificate and a medal, presented during the UHP senior recognition ceremony.

But beyond the credentials, UHP students demonstrate sustained excellence—engaging in rigorous coursework, high-impact experiences, undergraduate research, cultural exploration and leadership opportunities. Students leave the program prepared to articulate how their experiences shaped their academic, personal and professional growth.

What are the curricular requirements?

The UHP curriculum includes:

• 6 credit hours of HON seminars that explore complex, real-world issues through interdisciplinary perspectives. These seminars often fulfill GEP or elective course requirements.
• 6 credit hours of approved coursework that strengthens your major through elevated academic rigor, faculty mentorship and deeper engagement with course content. These courses often fulfill major requirements.
• 2 semesters of Honors Forum,  a co-curricular program featuring guest lectures, arts and cultural events, and field trips. Typically completed during the fall and spring semesters of your first year in the program.
• Three high-impact experiences aligned with your goals (such as research, leadership, service or global engagement).
• A digital multimedia portfolio that synthesizes your undergraduate journey and highlights the impact of your learning experiences—an especially powerful tool when applying for graduate school or professional opportunities.