Distinction

The Office of the Registrar certifies to the deans of the colleges the names of students eligible to graduate with distinction.

Graduation with Distinction

Beginning in the fall 2024 semester, the criteria for undergraduate students to graduate with distinction will be consistent among undergraduate colleges. The criteria will be based solely on a static GPA.*

*The College of Pharmacy and Tippie Professional Programs maintain a different set of criteria.

Distinction criteria beginning in fall 2024 can be found in the General Catalog. Criteria for graduates prior to fall 2024 can be found below.

There are three levels of distinction at Iowa:

  • With Highest Distinction = 3 Stars
  • With High Distinction = 2 Stars
  • With Distinction = 1 Star

Distinction levels will appear on the transcript and diploma, the program, and will be read at commencement.

Distinction Stars on Apparel

The University of Iowa designates distinction by gold stars worn on the left sleeve of the student's regalia. 

Please note: Students qualified to graduate with distinction will receive their star patch via USPS mail. Distinction star patches are not available to order. Please contact Degree Services with questions about honors and distinction.

Example of highest distinction of three stars on a graduate's gown.

With Highest Distinction

Three Stars
Example of high distinction of two stars on a graduate's gown.

With High Distinction

Two Stars
With Distinction one star on apparel

With Distinction

One Star

Graduation with Honors

Students may graduate with either or both of honors in the major and university honors. 

Honors in the major recognizes excellence in a student’s major area(s) of study, whereas university honors recognizes completion of the UI Honors Program curriculum.

University Honors

University honors requires the completion of a flexible curriculum of honors coursework and experiences—such as research, study abroad, or internships—woven into the student’s undergraduate education.

Honors in the Major

Honors in the major requires additional work by the student, commonly a scholarly project or creative piece completed under the mentorship of a single faculty member, that goes beyond the regular requirements for the major.    

Honors in the major is based on the college and department you are earning your degree from. Information for each undergraduate degree granting college can be found at:

Questions about your eligibility to graduate with honors in the major should be directed to your department or college.