<p>I'm applying Early Action to Loyola, and I was wondering if anyone knew about the Honors College. I know I'm at least in the top 25% of applicants, as my GPA and ACT scores are above the mid-50% range the university supplies.</p>
<p>Any information on the rigor of admission or tips on gaining accepetance would be greatly appreciated!</p>
<p>My son is a freshman in the Honors Program at Loyola University Maryland so I may be able to offer a little insight. I believe Loyola is looking for students with an “A” average or 3.7 or higher (unweighted) minimum and 1350 minimum or higher SAT (Verbal & Math). You can apply SAT/ACT optional, so grades will become that much more important if you do not submit test scores. My son was slightly above these minimums in a very demanding program.<br>
The Honors Program looks for students who took a rigorous program of AP, IB, honors, etc. The essays as we were later told by the Director of the Honors Program are very important in the admissions decision. Loyola tries to limit the Honors Program to about 45-50 incoming freshmen. This year there are 43 students in the program. Because there is a specific course sequence that begins freshman year and totals 11 courses, it is very rare for students to enter the program once enrolled at Loyola.
In general, Loyola attracts about half its students from private high schools with the other half coming from top public schools. Loyola looks for students who took a rigorous academic program. My son attended a public high school. I was amazed at how many of my son’s friends at Loyola went to Jesuit prep schools and other quality private and public schools.
Finally, my son loves Loyola and has yet to come home or feel homesick. The honors courses are his most challenging and require a lot of reading and writing. His favorite professor thus far is from the Honors Program. Recently his honors class of 14 students was invited to the professor’s home for dinner and a debate. My son works hardest in this class yet it is his favorite.
My wife and I are thrilled that our son chose Loyola as it has been a great fit for him.
Good luck with your college search.</p>
<p>Thank you so much! I visited the college and the admissions counselor I talked to could not tell me as much information as you!</p>
<p>gracemarie,
You may want to contact Professor Doug Harris at Loyola with any additional questions you may have. Professor Harris is the Director of the Honors Program and has been very reponsive to my son’s questions thus far.
Good Luck with your college search.</p>