Getting good grades doesn't mean you have life figured out.

The Honors College is about more than academic achievement — it’s about discovering the best version of yourself. You’ll learn in small, intimate classes alongside motivated peers who will challenge and inspire you, where your voice is heard and your growth doesn’t go unnoticed. Honors courses go deeper, encouraging bold questions and meaningful work. And throughout it all, a dedicated advisor and engaged faculty are with you every step of the way.

Make it your own.

You’ll complete at least five Honors courses during your time in the program, but the choice of which ones is entirely yours. Drawn to science and math? Take Honors Biology, Chemistry, and Calculus. More at home in the liberal arts? Choose from Honors Film, Philosophy, English, History, and more.

Do you have what it takes?

We welcome students who are motivated, engaged, and ready to be challenged. To be considered, meet at least three of the following four criteria:

  • A GPA of 3.5 or higher (unweighted), or an equivalent grade average of 87% or above
  • College readiness in Math and English, demonstrated by an SAT score of 1100+ (550+ Math, 450+ Evidence-Based Reading & Writing), an ACT score of 26+ (24+ Reading, 23+ Math), or satisfactory results on RVCC’s Accuplacer placement test
  • A record of involvement in leadership, community service, volunteerism, or civic engagement
  • A class rank in the top 20% of your high school (if your school provides ranking)

The Honors College is test-optional. If you choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores, we’ll give extra weight to your involvement and leadership when reviewing your application.

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See where it can take you.

RVCC Honors College graduates have been accepted at some of the most respected universities in the country:

  • Yale
  • Princeton
  • Columbia
  • Stanford
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • Georgetown
  • Johns Hopkins
  • NYU
  • and many more…
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Ready to apply?

We have two deadlines each year — February 1 for Early Admission and July 1 for Regular Admission.

New to RVCC? Complete the First-Time College Student application and answer the Honors College questions in the form. You’ll also submit a 500-word essay and two letters of recommendation (at least one from a current high school teacher). Transcripts and scores can be submitted through your school’s portal (just add RVCC) or sent by your counselor to Greg.DeSanctis@raritanval.edu.

Already an RVCC student? Download the Transfer application to join the Honors College. The Honors College Application Instructions walk you through the process step by step.

Apply Now

Wait, I have a few questions:

How do I apply?

Getting started is simple. Just submit the general RVCC admissions application and complete the specific Honors questions when prompted. No extra forms, no extra fees—just an opportunity to step into your potential.

Can I use my AP or dual-enrollment credits?

Absolutely. Your hard work matters. AP scores and the college credits you’ve earned while in high school can help lighten your load, freeing you to focus on the transformative experience ahead.

Do I need to be a full-time student?

No. The Honors College welcomes driven learners of all schedules. Whether you’re part-time or full-time, the door to high-impact learning is open to you.

How many Honors courses do I need to graduate?

AA and AS degrees: Five (5) honors courses are required
AFA and AAS degrees: Four (4) honors courses are required

Does the Honors College fit with any major?

The Honors College curriculum aligns with all AA, AS & AFA degree pathways and supports certain AAS pathways. If your program is more career or technical in focus, the Honors College may not align.

Can Honors courses boost my GPA?

Honors classes are weighted the same as all other courses, but they elevate something more important: your ability to think critically, collaborate meaningfully, and engage at a higher level. This unique learning experience impacts aspects of both your transfer application & resume!

Do I have to maintain a certain GPA while in the Honors College?

Yes. We’ll help you stay locked in and maintaining at least the 3.3 GPA needed to stay in the program.

I still have more questions!

If you have more questions, please reach out to us at: honors@raritanval.edu or consider attending an upcoming information session here.