FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Becoming a Member - Selection Criteria
Who is responsible for setting the qualifications?
Basic Membership Requirements are set by the governing body of each National Organization. Then, additional membership requirements are set by the administration of the university or the University's Pan-Hellenic Council. Finally, membership requirements are included in the bylaws of every chapter.
What are the basic qualifications of a Greek organization?
Most Black Greek Organizations have set a C+ GPA as the minimum requirement to join. All look for candidates with high ethical and moral standards and a record of high scholastic achievement. Evidence of leadership qualities and a willingness to work hard and support the national programs are also extremely important.
Do Greek letter organizations really look for members that will uphold their purpose?
YES!!! Every Greek who loves their organization and really believes in the mission of their organization really wants to encourage people who have those same ideals to join. The problem that we as undergrads face is trying to find out which people are truly committed to the spirit and ideals of our founders and not just trying to join to wear the letters.
Do all chapters of Greek organizations have this set image they must fulfill?
NO! Every Greek Organization has members who are totally different, yet alike in their devotion to the ideals of their founders. Their isn't a "set" stereotype for any Black Greek Organization, aside from our desire to choose people based on their willingness to work.
What do fraternities and sororities look for?
We look first to high scholastic achievement. The minimum requirement set forth by our National Organizations is independent of each organization. Of course, we are impressed by ladies with higher GPAs. We also look for evidence of ethical conduct (academic dishonesty, criminal records, and dubious reputation all fall under that category). We are also impressed by prospective members who have participated in community service projects and have done voluntary community service. Finally, leadership positions within other organizations give us an idea of your work ethic and time and people management skills.
How many hours of community service should a person have?
There aren’t a set number of community service hours any prospective candidate should have. Ideally, your community service should be something that you enjoy doing which, of course, will make you more likely to spend time there.
If it is supposed to be such a learning experience, why is it so hard to be a part of something that you wish to be affiliated with?
Trying to become a member of a Black Greek Organization is a learning experience within itself. Sometimes, it's bad paperwork or lack of qualifications holding a candidate back. Sometimes it's lack of money. Trying to join, and being a member, of a Black Greek Organization is just another lesson in life and in people management. Because the membership of the chapter has to vote on you, your relationship with the chapter is something you have to develop, just as you would develop a networking connection in order to get a job.
When would be the best time for me to try to join?
The best time to try to join is when you feel you would have a good shot of making the candidate pool. If you believe that you can afford it, have the time necessary to go through intake, have the necessary qualifications to make the candidate pool, and can commit time to the chapter meetings and programs, then you are ready to join.
