National Pan-Hellenic Council

Reflect on your values and goals

• Consider why you are interested in membership and how joining an NPHC organization may support your personal, academic, leadership, and professional development. Membership is a lifelong commitment, so it is important to thoughtfully evaluate your motivations and expectations. Identify what is important to you, what you value, and your goals.

Learn about NPHC and its member organizations

• Begin by learning about the history, mission, values, and traditions of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and its member organizations. Each organization has a unique legacy, purpose, and commitment to service, scholarship, leadership, and community engagement. You can find this information on the organization's website and social media.

Attend NPHC 101 and informational events

• Attend the required NPHC 101 session hosted by SLU Fraternity and Sorority Life. This session offers a high-level overview of NPHC organizations and what you can expect during the intake process. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions and find resources to get started. These sessions are typically hosted in September and February.

Meet eligibility requirements

• Review University, council and chapter eligibility requirements. This may include a minimum GPA, good academic standing with the University, and meeting conduct expectations.

Get involved on campus and in your community

• Seek opportunities to become actively involved in campus organizations, leadership experiences, volunteer service and community engagement. NPHC organizations often value commitment, initiative and a desire to positively impact others. Additionally, this reflects our Jesuit identity to be for and with others.

Understand financial responsibilities

• Membership typically involves financial obligations such as initiation fees, membership dues, apparel, conference attendance, and other chapter-related expenses. Ask about these obligations to ensure you can responsibly manage them.

Attend official interest meetings

• When organizations participate in intake, they typically host official informational or interest meetings. These sessions provide an opportunity to learn directly from chapter members about eligibility requirements, expectations and next steps. Note that not every organization hosts intake each term.

Ask thoughtful questions

• Use these opportunities to gain a better understanding of the organization's mission, values, service initiatives, and membership expectations. Asking informed questions demonstrates genuine interest and helps you make an educated decision about pursuing membership.

Gain clarity about the process

• Pay close attention to information provided by the chapter and University. Intake processes vary among organizations, so it is important to understand the requirements, timelines, and expectations communicated through official channels. Don't get caught up in rumors; get information from the source.

Follow all instructions and processes

• If invited to continue in the process, carefully follow all directions provided by the chapter and University. Missing deadlines or failing to complete required steps may affect your eligibility or the intake timeline. Intake decisions are made by the organization and membership is not guaranteed through participation in events or interest meetings.

Submit required documentation

• Complete and submit all required applications, forms, or supporting materials by the specified deadlines. Submitting early is even better! Ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete.

Participate in the official intake process

• Students selected for membership will participate in the organization's official intake process. The structure, timeline and requirements of this process vary by organization and are determined by the chapter and national organization.

Adhere to organizational and University expectations

• Throughout the process, chapters and individual students are expected to follow all laws, University policies, council guidelines and chapter requirements. Professionalism, integrity and respect are important at every step. If you have a concern about adherence to a law or policy, please report the incident to the Office of Student Responsibility and Community Standards. Read more about Saint Louis University's Hazing Prevention and Resources.

Maintain expectations and balance your obligations

• Continue meeting all academic, conduct, and university expectations throughout the intake process and beyond. Membership in an NPHC organization carries ongoing responsibilities and standards. Find your rhythm as you balance your obligations with other commitments like family, academics, work, and friends.

Respect privacy and confidentiality

• Many aspects of the intake process are private and managed directly by the chapter. Respect the confidentiality of the process, follow chapter guidance, and refrain from sharing information that is private, even with your closest family and friends. Discretion is expected.