Latin Honors Policy

LATIN HONORS POLICY AND DISTINCTION

At Howard University, Latin Honors are awarded based on cumulative GPA: Cum Laude (3.20-3.49), Magna Cum Laude (3.50-3.79), and Summa Cum Laude (3.80-4.00). These honors are noted on transcripts, diplomas, and in the Commencement program. To be eligible, students must have completed the last half of their degree requirements in residence at Howard, not repeated courses to raise their GPA, and have been enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester (except the last semester).

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Cum Laude: 3.20-3.49 GPA.
• Magna Cum Laude: 3.50-3.79 GPA.
• Summa Cum Laude: 3.80-4.00 GPA.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Residence:

  Students must have completed the last half (60 credit hours) of their degree requirements in residence at Howard University.

• Course Repetition:

  Students are not eligible if they have repeated courses for a better grade to raise their GPA. A “W” (Withdrawal) is considered a grade, however a “W” has no impact or grade point value on a students GPA and is not considered in determining eligibility for Latin Honors.

• Full-Time Enrollment:

  Students must have been enrolled in at least 12 credit hours for each semester, with the exception of the last semester in residence. 

Students are NOT eligible to receive honors distinctions if:

• The last half (60 hours) of coursework required for the degree was not completed in residence at Howard University.
• Course(s) were repeated (received a letter grade).
• They have not been enrolled in at least 12 credit hours for each semester enrolled, with the exception of the last semester in residence.