<p>First of all could anyone explain exactly what an honors program entails? I'm not exactly sure about what they are. It's been suggested to me that I look into one of the CUNY =honors schools but those dno't seem to be difficult schools to get into, unless the honors is a big difference. Any good honors programs near mass that aren't insanely difficult to get into? (by near mass i mean NE and surrounding states)</p>
<p>The CUNY honors average SAT score is 1380. Yours is a 1540. I dunno about GPA, but it's not an insanely difficult program to get into, especially with your scores.</p>
<p>Anyway, an honors program in general entails more work, but also added benefits; early class registration, more prestige, better dorms, e.t.c.</p>
<p>I've been told about the CUNY honors program, and trust me it's no cakewalk. I have a 2070 SAT and I probably couldn't get in their. CUNY is attempting to lure the brightedt minds of today's youth by bringing in Ivy caliber students to take part in their college, in turn for free tuition/stipend. If you can get in, it's one of the most respected programs in America, though it is still rather unknown.</p>
<p>I was considering applying to it myself, but it's just too unknown. Ivy caliber student body, perhaps, but nowhere near Ivy name recognition.</p>
<p>do they have a GPA minimum?</p>
<p>UMass Amherst has an honors college called Commonwealth College. I believe you have to apply to it specifically.</p>
<p>UVM has an honors program. You don't apply; they invite you on the basis of your credentials & application.</p>
<p>Are honors schols all free or very cheap?</p>
<p>No. Why would you think that? You may be eligible for merit aid, but I only know of 2 schools that are free without income qualification: Olin in MA, and Cooper Union in NY.</p>
<p>Well, in-state honors students at public universities often get a ton of merit aid.</p>
<p>Right, but that's individual by individual. The schools are not automatically either "cheap" or "free". And out of state students at public universities often get very little (at least in the New England states, which is where the OP is considering).</p>
<p>CUNY Honors is a fantastic program. Some of the smartest people I know (including our high school Sal.) are going, and many well-qualified students don't get in, trust me (I know a crapload of people at Bronx Science, a h.s. that does very well in admissions, who were well qualified and didn't get in this year). Free tuition + free room and board + ipod + stipend for study abroad, etc. Great deal</p>