Fraternity & Sorority Life

Discover the Fraternity and Sorority Community at Penn State

Joining a fraternity or sorority at Penn State means stepping into one of the largest, most vibrant communities of its kind in North America. With 70 chapters and thousands of members, our community offers a place to find friendship, purpose, and growth that extends far beyond graduation. 

Fraternities and sororities here create smaller, welcoming circles within the larger university, helping you feel connected and supported. Members are dedicated to core values that guide their experience: 

• Academic Achievement – Excelling in the classroom with built-in support networks.
• Service & Philanthropy – Making a positive impact on campus and in the community.
• Leadership – Developing the confidence and skills to lead with integrity.
• Brotherhood & Sisterhood – Forming lifelong bonds rooted in shared values.
• Alumni Involvement – Building a network that lasts well into your professional life.
• Social Connection – Creating lasting memories through meaningful traditions. 

Our Purpose, Commitment, and Shared Values

At Penn State, fraternity and sorority life is about more than wearing letters — it’s about living your values every day. Our community is built on scholarship, leadership, service, and integrity, creating opportunities for students to grow as individuals and as members of something larger than themselves. Together, we:

• Strengthen scholarship by striving for academic excellence and supporting one another’s success.
• Foster brotherhood and sisterhood grounded in respect, understanding, and belonging.
• Develop leadership through action, example, and shared responsibility.
• Serve our communities by engaging in meaningful service and philanthropy.
• Build character and integrity through honesty, accountability, and compassion.
• Uphold responsibility to one another, our organizations, and the Penn State community.

Through these values, fraternity and sorority life empowers students to learn, lead, and make a lasting impact — both on campus and beyond.

A Community of Tradition

Since the earliest chapters were established here, Penn State’s fraternity and sorority community has played a meaningful role in shaping campus life. From homecoming celebrations and philanthropic events to academic support and leadership development, this rich tradition continues to inspire new generations of students to find their place, grow their potential, and leave their own mark on our shared story. 

Our vibrant community is home to over 70 organizations, creating a space for over 15% of the student body at Penn State.