The first year sets the tone for everything that follows.
Your first year of college is about more than grades—it’s about momentum, confidence, and belonging. Phi Eta Sigma exists to recognize students who excel early and give them opportunities to grow beyond the classroom.
Phi Eta Sigma isn’t recognition that has to wait until graduation.
​
It happens when it matters most.
Membership in Practice
Recognition
That Counts
Stand out now and later — recognition that academic programs and employers trust.
Opportunities
That Build You
​Leadership roles, service engagement, and national programs help you grow skills early.
Scholarships
& Awards
Access competitive scholarships to support your academic goals.
How much time does
this actually take?
Phi Eta Sigma is designed to support
your college experience—not compete with it.
​
Some members are highly involved.
Others participate occasionally.
All members are recognized.
You choose your level of involvement.
How Phi Eta Sigma
Membership Works
Membership isn’t just a title — it’s a guided experience that helps you grow academically, lead with purpose, and serve with integrity from your very first year.
01
You are
Invited
Selected by your institution based on your academic performance during your first year.​​
02
You Choose
to Join
Membership is optional and confirmed through a one-time fee that provides lifetime recognition.​
03
You Get
Involved
Members may participate in leadership, service, national programs, and chapter activities at their own pace.​​
04
You are Recognized
Members gain access to scholarships, national distinctions, and honors.
What Membership Leads to
Real outcomes that elevate your college experience in your first year and beyond.
National
Recognition
A nationally recognized academic credential that reflects high achievement during your first year of college.
​
Leadership & Service Experience
Leadership and service opportunities that help you develop skills employers and graduate programs value —
initiative, teamwork, and responsibility.
Scholarship
Access
Eligibility to apply for national scholarships and distinctions awarded annually to Phi Eta Sigma members.
Elevate with Honor
A Story Beyond GPA
Meaningful involvement that helps you explain your leadership, service, and growth beyond your GPA.
​
​
​​
Who is eligible?
Campus chapter membership is by invitation only and based on GPA or class rank during your first year.
If you received an invitation,
you earned it.
Interested, but haven’t received an invitation?
Phi Eta Sigma membership is by invitation and is coordinated through your campus chapter.
​
If you believe you are eligible but have not yet received an invitation, please contact your chapter advisor for next steps.
Don’t see a chapter on your campus?
We work with institutions to explore interest in establishing new chapters. If you’re interested in learning more, our national office is happy to start the conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phi Eta Sigma legitimate?
Yes. Phi Eta Sigma is the nation’s oldest and largest honor society for first-year college students, founded in 1923 and recognized by colleges and universities nationwide.
​
Membership is by invitation only, based on academic performance during a student’s first year, and selections are made in partnership with each institution. Phi Eta Sigma chapters are advised by faculty and supported by the national organization.
​
How is Phi Eta Sigma different from other honor societies?
Phi Eta Sigma is specifically designed to recognize first-year students.
While many honor societies recognize achievement later in college, Phi Eta Sigma acknowledges academic success early and provides opportunities for leadership, service, and recognition beginning in a student’s first year.
This early focus allows members to build involvement, experience, and distinction throughout their college career — not just at graduation.
​
Is membership worth it if a student is busy?
Yes. Phi Eta Sigma is designed to be flexible and student-driven.
Members choose how and when to participate based on their interests and availability. There is no required level of involvement to remain a member.
Students may engage in leadership, service, or national programs at their own pace while still retaining lifetime recognition and eligibility for scholarships and distinctions.
​
What happens after a student joins?
After joining, members receive access to:
-
National scholarship and recognition opportunities
-
Leadership and service programs
-
Chapter and national involvement opportunities
-
Graduation honors and distinctions
Membership provides lifetime recognition, meaning students continue to benefit from their affiliation throughout college and beyond, even if their level of involvement changes over time.
​
Is this a one-time fee?
Yes. Membership requires a single, lifetime fee—no annual dues.
​​
Do I need to join immediately?
Invitations are time-sensitive. We encourage prompt acceptance to access full benefits.
​
Is Phi Eta Sigma nationally recognized?
Yes. Phi Eta Sigma is the nation’s oldest and largest honor society for first-year college students.
​
What if I’m busy?
You choose your level of involvement. Opportunities are available when you’re ready.
​
Do I have to attend my induction ceremony?
No, you do not lose eligibility by missing your induction opportunity. Check with the local chapter advisor to learn how and when you may be inducted.
​
Is Phi Eta Sigma a social fraternity or sorority?
Although some chapters have social events, we are not a social fraternity, and membership in Phi Eta Sigma does not prevent you from joining a social fraternity or sorority.
​
Do I have to maintain my GPA?
No. Lifetime membership is conferred upon induction.
​
What if my school does not have an active chapter?
Based on your academic record (GPA), you can apply to join Phi Eta Sigma through the national headquarters.
​
Apply here, and if accepted you will have access to all member opportunities and benefits.