FAQ

Prospective Students

Can I apply to the Turing Scholars Honors Program if I have not taken any CS classes in high school?

Yes! There are many ways to demonstrate a passion for—and background in—computer science.

Can I participate in the Turing Scholars Honors Program and also in one of the other Honors programs at UT, such as Dean's Scholars or Plan II?

Yes. You are free to apply to as many Honors programs as fit your needs. We have many students who are participating in two honors programs and have even had some participate in three. Note that some honors programs will require you to double-major.

Can I double major in CS and some other major if I join the Turing Scholars Honors Program?

Yes. A significant fraction of our Turing Scholars choose to double major in any of a variety of subjects, including German, Chinese, Chemistry, Biology, Business, Math, Physics, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Music, and Plan II.

What's the difference between Turing and CSB?

CSB is a separate honors degree program for students interested in both Business and Computer Science. CSB students essentially double-major in both Business and CS.

Current & Transfer Students

Can I, a current UTCS student, transfer into Turing?

Yes. You may apply for admission to the Turing Scholars Honors Program by submitting an online application, and then emailing a resume to the address on the online application. Applications are accepted towards the end of each semester. Successful applicants will be placed in honors courses as appropriate for their background.

Can I, a transfer student, transfer into Turing?

Transfer students can apply after their first semester in-residence at UT Austin.

Can I, a current UTCS student, take honors classes even if I'm not in Turing?

Yes. Space is limited, but the petition form for taking honors classes as a non-honors student can be found here.

About the Program

If I am a Turing Scholars student, must I take all of the honors classes?

No. If you are admitted to the Turing Scholars Honors Program as a first year student, you will be expected to take the special sections of the first year classes. After that, you may take whatever courses you choose. However, there is a minimum number of honors classes that you must complete in order to graduate as a Turing Scholar.

What kind of students do well in the Turing Scholars program?

We're looking for students who are committed and hardworking, with a strong math and science background, and students who are open to challenging courses where they don’t always have the answer right in front of them.

What is TSSA?

TSSA is the Turing Scholars Student Association, a student led organization built around the Turing Scholars program that organizes corporate, social, and research events for the Turing Scholars community. Every admitted Turing Scholar is automatically a member of this student organization.