Fraternity & Sorority Life is one of the many ways you can become involved while at Wichita State University. Below are a few frequently asked questions that will help you in deciding to join the WSU fraternity and sorority community.
What makes Fraternity & Sorority Life different from other organizations?
Joining a fraternity or sorority can help to ease your transition to college life easier. Through your membership you will develop lifelong friendships, gain personal and professional skills, and gain a greater understanding of community. For many, their new founded community provides a sense of comfort and provides a home away from home.
How will joining a chapter benefit me after college?
Membership in a fraternity or sorority is a lifelong committment, and joining is an investment in your future. Chapter have national/international networks and alumni chapters for their members to use for career and personal connections.
How do I join a fraternity or sorority?
Membership in a fraternity or sorority varies by council and/or chapter. Review the Councils & Chapters page to learn more about the structure of our community and its membership processes.
What are the eligibility requirements to join?
The Fraternity & Sorority Life community is a diverse group of students across various backgrounds, age groups, and region. To be considered for membership in a fraternity or sorority we only require that you be an enrolled degree-seeking student at Wichita State University with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. Some chapters have a slightly higher GPA requirement to join.
What is the time commitment?
The time commitment varies from chapter to chapter, but the first semester is generally the most time intensive for new members as the go through chapter Education Programs. These programs give students the opportunity to develop leadership and time management skills, learn about chapter history, develop friendships with other new members, as well as the rest of the chapter. After initiation into the chapter, the time commitment will vary as each chapter has regular meetings and mandatory events throughout the year.
What does it cost to be a member of a chapter?
The Fraternity & Sorority Life experience is an investment in your future. All chapters require annual memberships, also known as Membership/Chapter Dues. In each chapter, a portion of member dues directly supports the chapter and the national organization, while the rest of the dues you pay benefit you and your overall Fraternity & Sorority Life experience. Many of our chapters offer payment plans and scholarships to help subsidize the cost.
Do I have to live in a chapter facility?
Of our 26 chapters at Wichita State only ten (10) have houses and seven (7) have live-in options. No chapter requires members to live-in the facility and oftentimes it is chapter leadership who resides in the house. However, we often see members choose to live together to create a connection and community. Learn more
How will my involvedment in a fraternity or sorority impact my academics?
Academics are a top priority in the Fraternity & Sorority Life community and students must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 for consideration, some chapter minimum standards are higher. When students join a fraternity or sorority, they become part of a larger community focused on academics excellence. Chapters understand the challenges members often experience academically and provide support through tutoring and study hours. Each chapter also puts together programs to encourage high academic achievement from members and promote accountability within the organization. This dedication to their education has led to the average GPA among members of Fraternity & Sorority Life to be above the all university undergraduate GPA. Learn more.
What is a philanthropy?
A philanthropy is a non-profit cause supported by Fraternity & Sorority Life chapters. Members of fraternities and sororities support their philanthropies financially, physically, and emotionally. Throughout the year, each chapter fundraises and volunteers for their philanthropy. The time spent on philanthropic events is one of the many times that fraternity and sorority members have an opportunity to bond, while making a difference in the community. Philanthropies are unique to each chapter and have a local and national reach.
Do fraternities and sororities only host social events?
The Fraternirt & Sorority Life community is very social, but there’s much more to the social aspect than you might expect. From service to sports, social events give students the opportunity to develop new skills, meet new friends in their community, and engage in healthy competition. Some great social opportunities include: education programs, service events, philantrhtopy fundraisers, intramural sports, Shocktoberfest, and socials.
Are there any chapters currently on disciplanary status?
All disciplinary sanctions can be viewed through the website of our Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards. View the list here.
What about hazing?
Hazing is illegal (misdemeanor) in the state of Kansas Hazing is a way individuals hold power and control over others and is not promoted or tolerated at Wichita State University. A definition of hazing can be found in the University's Student Code of Conduct. If there are any concerns that these have been violated, you can make a report by filling out a Incident Report Form.