Joining a Fraternity or Sorority at Penn State
Becoming part of the fraternity and sorority community can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your time at Penn State. You’ll build lifelong friendships, grow as a leader, and contribute to traditions that span generations.
The Benefits of Joining
Joining a chapter is an investment in your personal, academic, and leadership journey at Penn State. Within your fraternity or sorority, you’ll find a supportive community that challenges you to learn, lead, and grow beyond the classroom. Along the way, you’ll build lifelong friendships, develop real-world skills, and contribute to a network that values integrity, service, and personal excellence.
-
You’ll have countless opportunities to step into leadership roles, whether you serve on your chapter’s executive board, plan philanthropic events, or mentor new members. These experiences help you build confidence, develop decision-making skills, and strengthen your ability to work as part of a team.
-
Members make a difference through hands-on service, fundraising, and campus-wide initiatives. You’ll be part of efforts that positively impact Penn State and the broader State College community, demonstrating the power of giving back.
-
Fraternities and sororities provide a welcoming network that feels like a home away from home. From study groups to late-night conversations, you’ll build strong connections with people who share your values and want to see you succeed.
-
Many chapters have resources to help you stay on track academically, including study hours, tutoring support, and recognition for your achievements. You’ll be surrounded by peers who understand the balance between academics and involvement.
-
Through shared traditions and new experiences, you’ll learn about yourself, develop your character, and discover what it means to be part of something bigger.
-
The skills you gain—like time management, event planning, budgeting, and public speaking—translate directly to your future career. You’ll also connect with a strong network of alumni who can offer guidance and open doors after graduation.
Recruitment Timeline
At Penn State, Fraternity and Sorority Life works in partnership with each individual council to navigate the recruitment process. Students looking to consider the process should review each council’s recruitment information as it may vary.
- Students interested in joining the National Pan-Hellenic Council should contact the chapter they are interested in directly
-
To participate in recruitment or intake, you must:
- Be enrolled as a full-time student at University Park
- Complete the online information session sponsored by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life
- Have earned at least 14 credit hours at Penn State, 27 transfer credits, or be considered an Adult Learner
- AP, dual enrollment, and transfer credits do not count toward the 14-credit Penn State requirement
- Hold a minimum 2.50 cumulative Penn State GPA
- Not be on conduct probation with transcript notation, suspended, or expelled
-
Fraternity and sorority membership involves financial obligations. Costs help fund operations, events, and programs that enrich your experience.
- University Fees: A semesterly Greek Membership Fee will be billed to your bursar account ($90 for Interfraternity and Panhellenic Council members; $30 for Multicultural Greek and National Pan-Hellenic Council members). This fee supports safety measures, educational resources, and community initiatives.
- Chapter Dues: Each organization has its own fees, which are typically higher in the first semester. Dues cover chapter expenses, national organization costs, and social events. You may also invest in meals, apparel, gifts, and other activities. Be sure to ask about costs and payment plans when you’re exploring chapters.
Council Recruiting Timelines
Housing
If you join a chapter with designated housing—on-campus in South Halls or in an off-campus chapter facility—you should plan to live there for at least your first year of membership. This helps build stronger connections with your community and immerse yourself in chapter life.
