HONOR CODE & ECCLESIASTICAL ENDORSEMENT

The BYU School of Medicine strives to admit and matriculate individuals who are aligned with our unique mission, prepared for the academic rigor of medical school, and committed to becoming compassionate physicians, community leaders, and lifelong ministers to God’s children.

All students admitted to the School of Medicine are required to commit to living the BYU Honor Code.

The Honor Code outlines expectations related to:

• Academic integrity 
• Respect for others 
• Abstinence from alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs 
• Abstinence from sexual relations outside marriage between a man and a woman
• Dress and grooming standards

Applicants must formally agree to abide by these standards as part of the secondary application. Admitted students must do so annually while they are enrolled at the School of Medicine.

You do not need to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to commit to the Honor Code. All students—regardless of religious affiliation—are expected to uphold its standards.

The Ecclesiastical Endorsement is a confidential evaluation from your religious leader that affirms your spiritual commitment, moral character, and personal integrity.

The endorsement confirms that you:

• Strive to live with honesty and moral accountability 
• Are willing to abide by the BYU Honor Code, including standards related to personal conduct, substance use, and chastity 
• Respect the mission and teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 
• Are committed to spiritual growth during your education 

All applicants—regardless of religious affiliation—must demonstrate a willingness to uphold these standards while enrolled. Ecclesiastical Endorsements are valid for one year and must be renewed annually to maintain enrollment at the BYU School of Medicine.

For applicants who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, endorsements are provided by your bishop and stake president. Instructions for requesting the endorsement will be included in your secondary application materials.

For applicants who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, you must obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement from a member of clergy from your own faith who:

• Knows you personally 
• Can speak to your character and moral conduct 
• Is willing to affirm your commitment to live the BYU Honor Code 

If you do not currently participate in a faith community, you can complete your first endorsement interview with a local bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Your second endorsement interview will be with the BYU university chaplain. Instructions for requesting the endorsement will be included in your secondary application materials.