What is Phi Eta Sigma?
Phi Eta Sigma is a national honor society for college freshmen. Our goal is to encourage and reward academic excellence among first-year students in institutions of higher learning.
The oldest and largest freshman honor society, Phi Eta Sigma was founded at the University of Illinois on March 22, 1923. We now have more than 300 chapters throughout the United States and more than 700,000 inducted members.
Phi Eta Sigma was voted membership into the association of College Honor Societies in 1937. Only three societies have had longer continuous membership. Our members stake a great deal of pride initiate 75-year accomplishments of our society despite the fact that we have the lowest membership fee of any member of the association.
Who is eligible to join?
On campuses with a chapter of Phi Eta Sigma, all first-year students are eligible to join who have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale at the close of any full-time curricular period during their first year.
Must I be inducted at a particular time?
Although you will prefer to be inducted with your classmates, you do not lose eligibility by missing induction. You may be inducted at a future date.
Is Phi Eta Sigma a social fraternity?
Although some chapters have social events, we are not a social fraternity. There is a dignified induction ceremony to which your parents and friends may be invited. Most chapters have projects and activities promoting academic excellence and campus and community service, but your participation is optional.
Must I maintain my average?
No, lifetime membership is conferred upon induction.
What do I get for the national membership fee?
Your national membership fee pays for your academic key or tie tac and your membership certificate. It pays a portion of the expenses for a chapter delegate to attend the national convention and leadership workshops. The national magazine, the FORUM of Phi Eta Sigma, and the study pamphlet, HINTS on Learning and Studying, are provided to chapters on a complimentary basis.
A portion of the membership fee goes to the Founders Scholarship fund, which provides thirty-five or more national graduate or undergraduate endowed scholarship of up to $5,000 each and seventy five or more national undergraduate awards of $1,000 dollars each.
Who is eligible for the scholarships?
Cash scholarships of up to $5,000 and awards of $1000 are provided to members of Phi Eta Sigma selected by the national scholarship committee. Members applying for the scholarships and awards must be nominated by their chapters.
Your local chapter adviser has the application forms; national deadline is March 1. Many local chapters also award scholarships.
For new inductees:
If you've received a letter in the mail - then you've been selected to join Phi Eta Sigma - a National Honors Fraternity that focuses on Leadership, Scholarship, and Service. It is a great time to be had by all, and if you do decide to join, keep an eye on the main page of the website for information about where and when to register, as well as the date of the induction ceremony.
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