Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a Fraternity or Sorority?

A: A fraternity or sorority is a group of men or women formed by a brotherhood or sisterhood with common goals and aspirations who make a commitment to each other for life. The members that form a fraternity of sorority share their efforts, friendship and knowledge. Together these members learn, grow and make the fraternity or sorority, commonly called a Greek organization, stronger. Their common experience builds ties that last a lifetime.

Q: Do Greek organizations take up a lot of time?

A: Just like any other activity, the amount of time and energy you put into your Greek membership, the more you will get out of the experience. While membership does require a time commitment, Greeks are known for balancing their time between academics, clubs/ organizations, jobs, family, and friends. The time-management skills that are learned from being a part of a Greek organization are invaluable!

Q: Who is eligible to participate in recruitment/ intake?

A: Joining a Greek social organization without fully complying with all University requirements’ regarding eligibility is strictly prohibited. Both the individual student and organization will be subject to disciplinary action for new member violations. The following requirements pertain to students joining either recognized or unrecognized Greek social organizations. Full-time matriculated students are eligible for new membership when they have:

• Attained a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 and have completed 12 credits towards graduation.
  * Some organizations may require a higher GPA than 2.5
• Completed all Basic Skills classes (if applicable)
• Filled out and submitted the “New Member Registration Form” to Fraternity and Sorority Life
• Filled out and submitted the “Information on Indemnification and Hazing for all Greek New Members Form” to Fraternity and Sorority Life
• Completion of the “New Member Workshop” presented by Fraternity and Sorority Life

Please note: First semester transfer students will be required to submit an official transcript from their previous institution to verify cumulative GPA eligibility. Students matriculating through the Educational Opportunity Fund/Maximizing Academic Potential program must complete 24 college credits and seek the approval of their counselor prior to joining a Greek-letter organization.

Q: Will my academics by compromised by joining a Greek organization?

A: On the contrary, a central mission of all Greek organizations is academic excellence. Fraternities and sororities understand that their members are students first and foremost. All chapters have scholarship programs that may include study hours, tutoring, scholarships and other recognitions for academic success.

Q: Is there a financial cost to joining Greek Life?

A: There is a financial commitment associated with joining a fraternity or sorority. The costs go towards the Inter/National fees, chapter operating expenses, and social functions. Financial obligations differ among individual chapters. New members can expect to pay higher dues their first semester than in subsequent ones for one time initiation/application fees. There are payment plans available for students as well as scholarships within the individual chapter. While you are participating in the recruitment process, make sure that you ask about the financial obligations of membership.

Q: What is recruitment/ intake?

A: Recruitment/ intake is the time when Sororities and Fraternities seek and recruit new members. Students have an opportunity to visit the groups and see what each has to offer. Also during this time, potential new members go through a mutual selection process to determine which organizations they will join. Membership Intake is the processes that NPHC and cultural-based organizations utilize to select, educate, and initiate new members.