How does the Arizona State honors college application differ from the regular ASU application?

Barrett, The Honors College has its own application that is separate from the general ASU admission application.

You first apply to ASU as a university applicant. Then, if you want Barrett, you submit a separate Barrett application. In practice, many students do this around the same time, but they are distinct processes with separate requirements.

The regular ASU application is for admission to the university and to your academic major. That application focuses on the standard undergraduate admission process.

The Barrett application is specifically for honors admission and usually includes additional short-answer or essay components, along with a more selective review of your academics and overall fit for the honors program. Barrett is looking for strong academic preparation, but also thoughtful writing and engagement.

So the structure is basically: apply to ASU, then apply to Barrett. You do not get placed into Barrett automatically just by being admitted to ASU.