Letters are sent to prospective honors scholars, inviting them to apply to the Honors Program. In any given year, 2200-2800 letters may be sent. Interested candidates are asked to return a completed application and supporting materials by May 1 or an earlier date designated in the letter of invitation. The applications are then reviewed by the director of the Honors Program, the assistant director and members of the Honors Program Committee. School and community activities, honors and awards Two letters of recommendation , at least one from a teacher Essay 250-300 word response to a reading sent with application form Using the above criteria, the evaluators rank the pool of applicants using both quantitative and qualitative rating schemes.
Special consideration is given to the quality of writing in the personal statement.
At the conclusion of the selection process, invitations to enter JMU as honors scholars are extended to approximately 200 candidates. Those choosing to accept the invitation and become honors scholars are requested to notify the Honors Program prior to their summer orientation. During orientation, the new honors scholars attend a special advising session with the director or assistant director of the Honors Program prior to meeting with their assigned faculty adviser.