How Admission Works
The Jane P. Batten Honors College is a selective, invitation-only program. Admission is based on academic achievement and demonstrated potential, with no financial need requirement. Students must be enrolled as full-time residential students for all four years.
Qualified applicants are invited to attend a 2-day competition on campus, where finalists are evaluated through interviews and group activities. Scholarship awards are made following each competition.
Eligibility
Admittance to Batten University
You must first apply to and be admitted to Batten University before applying to the Honors College.
Minimum 3.5 GPA or Higher
A strong academic record is the foundation of the application. Competitive applicants typically demonstrate consistent achievement across disciplines.
Test Optional
Standardized test scores are not required. The BHC application is evaluated holistically — your academic record, writing, and interview performance tell the full story.
Complete BHC Application
The application includes a short answer question, a statement of purpose (3–5 minute video or 250-word written statement), a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
Scholarship Awards
All scholars invited to compete are evaluated for one of two scholarship awards. Both are renewed annually for four years, provided the scholar remains in good academic standing.
President's Scholarship
Full-tuition award. 20 awarded annually. Residential requirement all four years.
Dean's Scholarship
Three-quarter tuition award. 20 awarded annually. Residential requirement all four years.
Graduate Partnerships
Graduating Batten Honors scholars gain preferred admission access to two nationally recognized graduate programs — one reserved seat per program, per year, for a BHC graduate who meets admission criteria.
William & Mary — VIMS
Preferred admission to the Master of Arts in Marine Science at William & Mary's School of Marine Science at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Includes an annual scholarship.
UVA — Batten School
Preferred admission to the Master of Public Policy at the University of Virginia's Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy. Includes an annual fellowship.
Ready to Apply?
Applications are submitted through the Batten Honors College portal. You must first apply to and be admitted to Batten University.
Start Application →Admissions Office
Competition Weekends
Invited applicants attend an on-campus competition weekend. Apply before the deadline for your preferred date — spots are limited and fill quickly.
Scholarship awards are announced following each competition weekend. All dates are subject to change — contact the admissions office to confirm availability.
What to Expect on Competition Weekend
Meet the Community
Spend time with current Batten scholars, faculty, and the Dean. Get an honest look at what life in the Honors College is actually like — not just the brochure version.
Interview & Group Activities
Finalists participate in individual interviews and collaborative group exercises. We're looking for intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, and the ability to engage with others — not perfection.
Questions about the process?
Our admissions team is happy to walk you through the application, eligibility requirements, or what to expect on competition weekend.