1) Who should write my letter(s) of recommendation? How many do I need?

One letter is required, and we accept a maximum of three. At least one letter must come from an instructor who taught you in a class.  It is best to choose an instructor from a class in your intended major or a closely related area that allows evaluation in some of these areas:  significant writing assignments; research; class participation; group work and leadership. Letters from employers, supervisors, or mentors for student honors societies or clubs are acceptable only as the second or third letter. Letters must be on letterhead stationery and can be mailed or submitted via email.

If you are not currently enrolled in a class with this instructor,  providing a paper or exam you wrote for the class makes it easier to write very specific comments about your abilities.

2) What should my essay address? How is it different from the writing sample?

As indicated on the application, your essay should focus on your academic and  intellectual development.  Which courses, books, academic experiences have shaped you as a person?  What are the factors that helped you to choose your major and minor?  What are your intellectual passions?  Do you plan to go on to graduate study? If you have experienced  academic difficulties in the past, please explain the situation and what you learned that enabled you to achieve success in your courses.  Your essay should demonstrate your highest level of proficiency as a writer.

If you wish to inform the committee about circumstances in your personal life that have impacted your academics, there is space to do so on page 2 of the application.

The writing sample, 3-10 pages, can be from a class in or related to your major or honors minor. Students with a planned major in the humanities or social sciences should provide a research paper with a standard bibliography. Students whose major field does not normally require papers (Accounting, Math, Computer Science, etc.) should provide a paper from an English composition or writing-intensive course.

3) Are all majors open to THP students?

Nearly all majors are available. However, students who intend to major in Music Performance or Studio / Graphic Art must contact the department well before the application deadline to learn policies regarding auditions or portfolios. We require a letter of support from the QC department chair for candidates in those areas.

4) How are admissions/levels of funding determined?

We look at the student’s entire record. Students who apply after the priority deadline may receive lower award amounts because many of the larger awards are allocated in the first round. We interview the most highly qualified accepted students (GPA above 3.9 ) to determine the full tuition awards granted each term.

5) Will the level of funding increase if my grades improve?

Students who achieve a high level of academic success at QC may receive an increase in THP funds in the second or third semester.  Funding for summer courses may also be available.  In addition, THP assists students who excel in their courses to apply for additional scholarships and internships.

6) Does the Transfer Honors Program require US Citizenship?

No. The program welcomes all applicants.