Distinctions Track

Incoming and currently enrolled students for academic year 2024-25 may choose to pursue the original Honors "distinctions" categories instead of or in addition to the minors track. Students entering in 2025 or later will pursue the minors track. 

College Honors

Noted on both the diploma and the LSU transcript, College Honors is the culmination of the Honors College curriculum. Students who earn College Honors at graduation will receive special recognition at LSU commencement. To graduate with College Honors a student must meet all requirements as established by the student’s own college including:

  • At least 32 hours of Honors classes as follows:
  • Senior capstone following capstone guidelines
  • 3.5 GPA in cumulative, LSU, and Honors coursework

Upper Division Honors Distinction

Students achieving this distinction will receive recognition at LSU commencement and on their transcripts. Students working toward Upper Division Honors Distinction are expected to indicate their intention, in person, to the Honors College Upper Division counselor who will furnish them with detailed requirements including the following:

  • A minimum of 12 hours of Honors courses at the 3000-level or above, including 3-6 hours of capstone
  • Senior capstone following capstone guidelines
  • 3.5 GPA in both cumulative and LSU coursework, and for all Honors courses used in the student’s Upper Division Honors program

Sophomore Honors Distinction

Recognition includes a notation on the transcript and a certificate awarded after the end of the fourth semester. This designation will be subject to approval by the dean of the student’s college upon recommendation of the dean of the Honors College. To achieve this distinction, students must complete the following by the end of their fourth regular semester in college:

  • 20 hours of HNRS seminars or departmental honors courses, including a minimum of 6 hours of HNRS courses
  • A 3.5 GPA in cumulative, LSU, and Honors coursework

Good Standing

All students must be in good standing to participate in the Honors College, register for Honors courses, and be eligible for priority registration. Following the initial semester in the Honors College, an Honors student is considered to be in good standing if they maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 an successfully completes a minimum of two Honors courses (five to six hours) per academic year in residence.