What are some examples of academic honors to include on the Common App?

Hi everyone! As I'm working on my college applications, I realized I'm not sure what counts as academic honors for the Common App. Can you give me some examples of awards or achievements that typically qualify as academic honors? I'd really appreciate it.

Hello! Academic honors on the Common App are generally awards or recognitions that demonstrate your academic achievements or exemplary performance in specific subject areas. Here are some examples to give you an idea of what can be included as academic honors:

1. National or international academic competitions:

- National Merit Scholar or Finalist/Commended

- National AP Scholar

- International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma

- Intel or Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) finalist/semifinalist

- International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) medalist

2. State-level academic awards:

- Governor's Honors Program (GHP) participant

- State Science Fair winner

- State Math Olympiad winner

- State-level subject competitions (e.g., Geography Bee, History Day)

3. School-based academic recognitions:

- Valedictorian or Salutatorian

- Departmental awards (e.g., English, Math, Science) for outstanding achievement in a particular subject

- High honor roll or Principal's List for maintaining a high GPA

- Membership in honor societies (e.g., National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta)

4. Scholarships or grants for academic achievement:

- Scholarships awarded based on academic performance, such as local community scholarships

- College-sponsored scholarship, like a merit-based scholarship from a specific school or program

These categories provide a wide range of possible academic honors to mention on your Common App, but keep in mind that what's important is to focus on those honors that best showcase your achievements and are most relevant to the schools you're applying to. Good luck with your college applications!