Academic Policies & Procedures

Honors College students are expected to maintain a GPA of 3.25 or higher. Students are considered in "Good Standing" if either their TXST or overall GPA is above a 3.25. Grades are reviewed and probation/dismissal notifications are sent directly to students at the start of each semester. After each fall and spring term, the Honors College will conduct a grade audit and issues the notices regarding probation and dismissal directly to students.

Students have two choices to graduate in the Honors College: (1) the Traditional Path, (2) the Minor in Honors Studies.

To graduate in the Honors College through the Minor in Honors Studies, students must complete a minimum of 21 credit hours, typically 7 honors courses. 

• The Minor in Honors Studies requires 21 semester credit hours. Nine hours cannot count toward any other degree requirement, and twelve credit hours must be at an advanced level. HON 4390A or substitute a pre-approved by the Honors College is required. A Capstone must be completed by earning credit for HON 4390B or HON 4090. Student are required to demonstrate cross-cultural awareness by completing an education abroad program or a qualifying project pre-approved by the Honors College.    
• Evidence of study abroad/international experience or evidence of cross-cultural competency. Click here to learn more about the CCE.

Students who graduate with a Minor in Honors Studies earn:

• A medallion to wear at graduation, and
• A special Honors designation on their official TXST transcript upon graduation.

NOTE: BGS majors with a Minor in Honors Studies should meet jointly with representatives from both the BGS program and Honors if interested in substituting HON 4390B for GNST 4350. 

Students have two choices to graduate in the Honors College: (1) the Traditional Path, (2) the Minor in Honors Studies.

To graduate in the Honors College through the traditional path, students must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours, typically 5 honors courses.

• The 15 hours must include HON 4390B (Capstone).
• You must maintain a 3.25 GPA.

Students who graduate with a Minor in Honors Studies earn:

• A medallion to wear at graduation, and
• A special Honors designation on their official TXST transcript upon graduation.

The Cross-Cultural Experience (CCE) is a requirement of the Minor in Honors Studies and must be completed prior to graduation. Students are encouraged to consult an Honors College advisor well in advance of graduation in order to plan their strategy for completion. More information, including different options for completion, can be found on the CCE website.

Students will be placed on  if their Texas State and overall GPA are less than 3.25 but greater than 2.00. This probationary status will go into effect the current semester of enrollment.

What does it mean to be placed on Honors Probation?

1. You are still a member of the Honors College.
2. You are still eligible to take an unlimited number of Honors courses without special approval.
3. You may still participate in Honors events, program, and activities.
4. You will still receive important updates and information through the Honors student listserv.

If a student's GPA falls below a 2.0  (both TXST and overall), the student may be dismissed from the Honors College.

If a student's GPA remains below a 3.25 (both TXST and overall) after serving one semester of Honors Probation, the student will be considered "eligible for dismissal".

All students considered "eligible for dismissal" will be given an opportunity to provide more information. The decision to dismiss will be based on the student's participation in Honors courses, entire academic history, and the student's response. Students must provide additional information in response to an "eligible for dismissal" notice via the dismissal form, which is sent directly to all students in the "eligible for dismissal" category.

What does it mean to be dismissed by the Honors College?

1. You are no longer a member of the Honors College. You may reapply for admittance once your GPA has improved.
2. You may not enroll in Honors courses unless granted special approval on a case-by-case basis.
3. You will be removed from the Honors student listserve and will no longer receive updates or information regarding Honors events and activities.
4. You should submit a dismissal response and/or contact the Honors Advisors if you wish to remain active in the Honors College.