History

Introduced in 1948, Honors Day is the occasion when students who have achieved signal academic excellence are honored by administrative officials, academic deans, and members of the faculty. It serves as an important prelude to Commencement. The Honors Day Convocation encompasses ceremonial elements such as an academic procession, orange and white honors cords worn by students, heraldic banners, inspirational messages, and celebratory music.

Specially invited faculty guests join student honorees in the procession and are seated next to them at the Convocation. In a special presentation, students honored for perfect grade point averages are invited to the stage to receive commemorative medallions from academic deans.

Criteria for Honors

Distinguished Scholars and College Scholars

• Have a grade point average of 3.5 to 3.9 (College Scholars) or 4.0 (Distinguished Scholars) in their UT Austin course work.
  
• Have earned 60 credit hours, a minimum of 30 at UT Austin, excluding transfer hours and advanced placement.
  
• Have enrolled in the Spring 2003 Semester for a minimum of nine undergraduate hours, with the exception of graduating seniors.
  
• Have registered within the 2002 calendar year.
  
• Have not yet received a degree.