Honors at
Yeshiva University

Rigorous. Personal. Transformative.

The Honors programs at Yeshiva University offer motivated students a highly personalized and intellectually rich college experience—along with substantial scholarship support.

Students in these programs are part of a close-knit academic community, who receive access to distinctive coursework and mentoring, and develop the leadership and critical thinking skills to make an impact in any field.

Honors Programs by College

Yeshiva University offers three distinct Honors programs:

Each program offers a unique experience tailored to its academic environment. What unites them is an emphasis on small seminar-style classes, advanced coursework, cohort-based learning, close faculty mentorship, and the completion of a substantial capstone or thesis project.

Why Choose the Honors Program?

This application is for students who:

Smaller, seminar-style classes with top faculty

Opportunities to take graduate-level courses as an undergraduate

One-on-one mentorship from professors and campus leaders

Special academic and cultural programming exclusively for Honors students

A senior thesis or capstone project guided by faculty

Dedicated Honors Courses and access to research, internships, and leadership opportunities

Generous merit-based scholarships, up to $25,000 per year

Early Decision Requirement

All applicants to the Honors programs must apply through Early Decision. Students who apply through Regular Decision are not eligible for Honors admission or the Honors Leadership Society, though they may still be considered for Dean’s and other merit-based scholarships.

Honors Application Process

Completed Application

Begin by creating your online application account. Once submitted, you will upload supplemental materials based on your application type in the portal.

$65 Non-refundable Application Fee

Payment is processed securely in your applicant portal.

Essay (500–750 words)

Choose one of the following prompts and upload your response as a PDF or Word document:

Option 1: Hakarat Hatov – Write a thank you letter to someone in your life. Express your gratitude and explain why it’s meaningful to you.
Option 2: Here’s how I intend to change the world…

Short Answer Questions (Pick 3)

Answer in 25 words or less and upload your responses as a PDF or Word document. Be specific, creative, and personal.
1. My approach to managing rejection is...
2. I feel most responsible when...
3. I discovered my own resilience when...
4. The greatest chessed I ever did was...
5. People say I am honest because...
6. __________ brings me joy.

Resume or Extracurricular Activity List

Highlight your involvement in school, internships, work experience, and community activities.

Official High School Transcript

Must be sent directly from your high school to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.

Two Letters of Recommendation

Select a teacher or administrator who knows your academic ability and personal strengths—someone who can speak to your leadership, creativity, and potential. Through your portal, you’ll be able to email them a secure link to upload their letter directly.

Honors Interview

Honors candidates will be invited to participate in an Honors Interview with a faculty member and a member from our admissions team.

Required: SAT or ACT Scores

YU requires standardized test scores for all Honors applicants. If you have not taken the SAT/ACT or are not inclined to submit your scores, we encourage you to apply as a traditional freshman applicant.

SAT Code: 2990
ACT Code: 2992

We do not require the writing section for either test.

Start your application

Honors Leadership
Society

The Honors Leadership Society is a tier of honors programs composed of three distinguished cohorts of elite honors students selected for their academic excellence and potential to shape the future. Representing a diverse array of fields, our students are the visionaries and trailblazers of tomorrow.

Straus Scholars: A program in Jewish and Western thought
Lieberman-Mitzner Scholars: Focused on public service and advocacy
Leadership Scholars: Centered on organizational leadership and innovation

Additionally, students may also be considered for our Honors Early Assurance programs:

Medical Scholars: Offering an early assurance track into the YU–Einstein medical school pathway
Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology: For students with a passion for advancing mental health and psychology at the doctoral level
Cardozo School of Law: For students with aspirations to enter the legal profession.

Each program provides unique opportunities for mentorship, community engagement, and further scholarship. support.

Program
Expectations

Honors students are expected to:

Complete six Honors courses (including two in the first year)*
Maintain a minimum GPA (typically 3.5 or higher, depending on the program)
Complete and defend a senior thesis or equivalent project
Participate in the Honors community and its events
Remain in good academic and disciplinary standing to retain scholarships

The Sy Syms Business Honors Program includes additional requirements such as a summer internship, specific honors courses, and on-campus residency for at least three years.

Scholarships and Academic Standing

Scholarships awarded through the Honors programs are renewable for up to four years of full-time study, provided students meet program expectations and GPA thresholds. Students who leave the Honors program before completing the requirements may become ineligible for continued scholarship support in their final semesters.

Still Deciding?

The Honors experience at Yeshiva University is designed for students who:

Want to be part of a vibrant intellectual community
Are self-motivated, curious, and eager to explore big ideas
Seek mentorship and close interaction with faculty
Are excited about completing a major academic project
Want to prepare for top graduate schools, fellowships, or career paths

Questions?

Our Admissions team is here to help you navigate the honors process.

Email us at yuadmit@yu.edu
or call 646-592-4440

Chat with us

Ready to take the next step?

Start your application today: yu.edu/apply

Honors at Yeshiva University