Frequently Asked Questions
- What year do I need to be entering in 2009 to participate in High School Honors?
We consider applicants entering their senior year of high school in fall 2009 - as well as select qualified juniors. Qualified juniors need to be in Honors and/or AP courses to be considered.
- Is this a commuter or residential program?
Students can either commute or stay on campus as part of the High School Honors Program.
- Can international students participate?
International students are eligible to participate in the High School Honors Program. They need to obtain a student visa in order to enroll. Please see the International High School Students page for more information for international students.
- Where can I get an application for the High School Honors program?
Applications are available on the How to Apply page.
- How many students attend High School Honors?
Approximately 70 students attend the High School Honors Program. Students live and participate in social activities with Research Internship students which combined totals approximately 100 students.
- Do you have a specific format for the teachers' recommendation letters?
Yes, we do. You can find the Teacher Recommendation Form on our website.
- What if I have not yet taken the PSAT, SAT, or ACT?
A PSAT, SAT, or ACT score is required for admission. If something has prevented you from taking one of the tests, please indicate why in your application materials.
- What are the admissions criteria?
We give the most attention to your high school transcript and standardized scores. Our students last year had an average 3.6 GPA and 1251 SAT score. Positive recommendations, extracurriculars, and a well-written essay are also taken into account.
- Can I check and see if my application is complete?
Yes, we encourage you to ensure that all your materials have arrived at our office. Please call our office at 617-353-1378 or email us at buhssumr@bu.edu to check on your application status.
- How long after I send in my application should I expect a response?
We work to get responses out within three weeks after receipt of your completed application.
- Once accepted into High School Honors, am I required to go to the program? Is acceptance binding?
Acceptance is not binding. You can either accept or decline our offer of admission.
- What courses will be offered in the 2009 High School Honors program?
Click here to view a full list of over 100 courses.
- What is the schedule for classes in the High School Honors program?
Your schedule will depend on the courses you choose, please visit a day in the life to get a feel of what your schedule will be. You can find the days and times of courses listed at the end of each course description.
- How many hours is each class in the High School Honors program?
Classes vary in length depending on how many days a week they meet. The hours the class meets are listed at the end of each course description.
- How many courses do High School Honors students take?
High School Honors students must take two courses, no more, no less.
- What is the cost of the High School Honors program?
Please see the Tuition and Fees page for a detailed description of the cost of attending the High School Honors Program.
- Is there financial aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available. We base awards on a combination of merit and need. Please click here to learn how to apply for financial aid.
- Do you offer any SAT preparation courses during the summer?
No, we do not offer SAT preparation courses.
- Will the credits I earn in the summer High School Honors program be transferable?
Most colleges will accept Boston University credit. You will need to speak with the school you plan to attend for confirmation.
- Do you take students to visit other colleges?
No, we do not go as a group to visit area colleges, but you may arrange your own visits during your free time. We do offer a college workshop offered by our Admissions office and a pre-health professional workshop by our pre-health professional office.
- Is there a curfew?
Yes. The curfew is 11 p.m. during the week and midnight on weekends.
- Are students free to leave campus?
All planned activities are mandatory. However, during free time students can leave campus as long as they have at least one other student with them and they let a program assistant know they are leaving.
- What is the schedule of activities for High School Honors?
You can see a sample schedule of activities on the Schedule of Events page.
- Who can I contact at Boston University if I have more questions?
Any of our staff would be happy to help you. You can find all of our information on the Contact Us page.

