Honors Program Admission Pathways

Walsh University offers two pathways for admission into the Honors Program. Both pathways provide outstanding students with the opportunity to engage in advanced scholarship, leadership experiences, and a community of academically motivated peers. Students are considered for the pathway that best reflects their academic profile and strengths.

Direct Admission Pathway

This pathway recognizes high academic achievement at the time of application. Students who meet the criteria below are automatically considered for Honors Program placement and no additional materials are required.

Apply to Walsh University by December 1, 2025

Applicants applying with a test score must meet one of the following criteria:

  • 3.9 GPA or higher and 27 ACT/1200 SAT or higher, or
  • 3.75-3.89 GPA and 30 ACT/1370 SAT or higher

Test-Optional applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

  • 3.9 GPA or higher and completion of 4 AP or College Credit Plus (CCP) courses, or
  • 3.9 GPA or higher and rank in the top 5% of their graduating class

Non-Direct Admit Pathway

This pathway is designed for students who want to show their strengths in ways that go beyond grades and test scores. If you’re passionate, creative, or involved in meaningful projects, leadership, or service, this is your opportunity to tell your story and be considered for the Honors Program through your achievements and interests.

Apply to Walsh University by December 1, 2025

GPA Requirement

Minimum GPA of 3.75

Application Requirements

Applicants will be asked to submit the following materials:

  • A research paper completed during junior or senior year
  • A short personal video (approx. 2 minutes) or a written essay (max. 1 page) expressing your interest in the Walsh University Honors Program
  • One reference letter from a core subject teacher
  • A resume highlighting academic achievements, leadership, service, or extracurricular involvement

All materials can be submitted using the Walsh University Honors Program Application Form.

You must accept your spot in the Honors Program upon invitation and/or before January 30, 2026 by submitting the Walsh University Honors Program Decision Form.

Honors Scholarship Opportunities & Competition Day Details

Students interested in participating in the Honors Competition Day for Presidential* and/or Founders'** Scholarships can complete the Walsh University Honors Competition Day Application by January 23, 2026.

Presidential Scholarship and Founders’ Scholarship applicants will be welcomed to campus for a scheduled interview on February 7, 2026.

*Walsh University Presidential Scholarships: Presidential Scholarships are awarded each year to a limited number of qualified entering freshmen in an amount equivalent to the cost of regular full-time tuition. Candidates will be invited to the Honors Competition and must be admitted to Walsh University by the published deadline. These scholarships are competitive and limited. Recipients of this scholarship must remain in the Walsh University Honors Program and live on campus all four years. The Presidential Scholarship replaces any previously-awarded institutional funds.

**Walsh University Founders' Scholarships: Founders' Scholarships are awarded each year to qualified entering freshman in an amount equivalent to the cost of regular full-time tuition. Candidates will be invited to the Honors Competition and must be admitted to Walsh University by the published deadline. One Founders' Scholarship may be awarded to a top scholar at each of six Youngstown Diocesan high schools per year. These scholarships are competitive and limited. Recipients of this scholarship must remain in the Walsh University Honors Program and live on campus all four years. The Founders' Scholarship replaces any previously-awarded institutional funds.