About
Phi Eta Sigma
The original first-year honor society—modernized for today’s students.
Founded in 1923, Phi Eta Sigma is the nation’s oldest and largest honor society dedicated to recognizing academic excellence among first-year college students.
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For more than a century, we’ve celebrated students who set the standard early—and supported them as they grow into leaders of character, purpose, and impact.
1.4 Million + Lifetime Members
300+ Campuses Nationwide
$400,000+ Annual Scholarships
Our Mission
To elevate the honors experience for the nation’s highest-achieving first-year college students.
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We celebrate academic excellence, create exceptional opportunities for holistic development, and cultivate a rewarding community through an intentional culture of care.
Developing the Mind
Academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and lifelong learning.
Supporting Health
Well-being, balance, and resilience during the transition to college.
Building Character
Integrity, service, leadership, and responsibility to others.
Why We Focus
on the First Year
The first year of college is a defining moment. Students are adjusting to new academic expectations, building independence, and beginning to shape their identities as scholars and leaders.
Phi Eta Sigma was founded on the belief that recognizing achievement early creates momentum—affirming students’ efforts, strengthening confidence, and encouraging continued excellence throughout their college journey.
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By honoring students at this critical stage, we help set a foundation for leadership, service, and lifelong achievement.​
What We Do
Phi Eta Sigma supports high-achieving first-year students through national recognition and opportunities designed to encourage continued growth and engagement.
Recognition
We formally recognize academic achievement during the first year through induction, national honors, and graduation distinctions that celebrate excellence at key milestones.
Community
Phi Eta Sigma connects students to a national network of peers, faculty advisors, and alumni—creating a shared experience rooted in achievement, service, and support.
Opportunity
Members have access to scholarships, leadership development, and service initiatives that support personal growth and prepare students for continued success.
Stewardship
We steward the legacy, resources, and trust entrusted to Phi Eta Sigma—ensuring the organization remains strong, ethical, and impactful for future generations of students.
For Parents & Families
Phi Eta Sigma is a nationally recognized academic honor society for first-year college students. Below are answers to common family questions.
Why was my student invited? Phi Eta Sigma invitations are extended to first-year college students who rank among the top scholars at their institution based on academic performance during their first term. Invitations are not automatic and are issued through each university in coordination with national standards. What does membership cost? Membership requires a one-time national fee. There are no annual dues. This fee supports national scholarships, leadership and service programming, and lifelong member recognition. Is this a recurring fee? No. Phi Eta Sigma membership is a one-time investment. Once inducted, students remain members for life. What does membership provide beyond recognition? In addition to national academic recognition, members gain access to scholarships, leadership development programs, service initiatives, national events, and opportunities designed to support personal growth during and beyond college. Is Phi Eta Sigma affiliated with my student’s university? Yes. Phi Eta Sigma operates through official chapters at colleges and universities nationwide. Each chapter is supported by a faculty advisor and works in partnership with the national organization. Is Phi Eta Sigma a legitimate national organization? Yes, founded in 1923, Phi Eta Sigma is the nation’s oldest honor society for first-year college students and has recognized more than 1.4 million members across hundreds of campuses. Phi Eta Sigma is a 501(c)3 non-profit and a member of the Association of College Honor Societies.
National
Leadership
Phi Eta Sigma is governed by a national board of directors and supported by professional staff committed to academic integrity, responsible stewardship, and student success.
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Together, our leadership ensures that Phi Eta Sigma remains a trusted partner to colleges and universities while advancing opportunities for high-achieving students nationwide.
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A National Community,
Locally Led
Phi Eta Sigma is a national organization with a strong local presence on college and university campuses across the United States.
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Each chapter is guided by dedicated faculty advisors and student leaders who support members and uphold the society’s standards of academic excellence and integrity.
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National Headquarters provides resources, programming, recognition opportunities, and support to ensure a consistent and meaningful experience for members—no matter where they attend school.
A Legacy of Excellence—
Looking Ahead
For more than a century, Phi Eta Sigma has recognized students who set the standard early. Our legacy is rooted in academic excellence, integrity, and opportunity.
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Today, we continue to evolve—creating meaningful recognition and relevant opportunities that reflect the realities of modern college life while staying true to our mission.
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As higher education changes, Phi Eta Sigma remains committed to supporting students from the very beginning of their college journey and preparing them for what comes next.
Setting the standard early—
for a lifetime of excellence.
