Skip Navigation
Edvisors Star Logo
Edvisors Logo
  • Compare Lenders
    • PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS
    • REFINANCE STUDENT LOANS

    featured articles

    • Best Private Student Loans for June 2025
    • Student Loan Comparison: Federal Loans vs Private Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loans vs Private Student Loans
    • How Does Interest on Student Loans Work?
    • Private Student Loan Cosigner: Everything you Need to Know
    • View All Articles >
    College Ave Student Loans

    Variable rates as low as: 4.24% APR1

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.24% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Compare Lenders
    • Best Student Loan Refinance Companies for June 2025
    • Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans
    • Student Loan Forgiveness: How to Get Student Loans Forgiven
    • Repayment Plans for Private Student Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loan Forgiveness
    • View All Articles >
    Earnest Private Student Loan

    Variable rates as low as: 5.88% APR (with Autopay)*

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.99% APR (with Autopay)*

    Apply Now
  • Scholarships
    • COLLEGE GRANTS
    • COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
    • EMPLOYER
    • MILITARY

    featured articles

    • What's the difference between scholarships and grants?
    • Graduate Fellowships
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • How to Find Scholarships
    • Top Tips for Winning Scholarships for College
    • Apply for Free Scholarships for College
    • Most Popular Scholarships for College Students in 2025
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • What is Federal Work Study Program?
    • Employer Tuition Assistance Programs: How Do They Work?
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • GI Bill
    • Military Service Academies
    • ROTC Scholarships
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College
  • Plan for College
    • CAREERS
    • COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
    • FAFSA
    • SCHOLARSHIPS
    • PAYING FOR COLLEGE
    • STUDENT LIFE BLOG

    featured articles

    • Best Job Search Sites June 2025
    • Resumes That Get Noticed
    • High Paying Careers
    • STEM Careers
    • View All Articles >
    Are you ready for college? You are with GradGuard

    featured articles

    • Measuring Academic Fit: Reach, Match and Safety Schools
    • Need-Blind Admissions
    • How Long is a College Essay
    • When are College Applications Due
    • How to Write a Good College Essay
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA Deadlines for 2025-2026
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • Most Popular Scholarships for College Students in 2025
    • Apply for Free Scholarships for College
    • College Scholarships for Kids
    • Most Prestigious Undergraduate Scholarships
    • Las mejores becas para estudiantes hispanos y latinos
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • How to Pay for College
    • Tuition Payment Plans
    • Pros and Cons: Borrowing From My 401K to Pay for College
    • Paying College Tuition with a Credit Card
    • Best Ways to Pay for College Without Financial Aid
    • View All Articles >
    Enter to Win $2,500 to Help Pay for College

    featured articles

    • Financial Aid Disbursement: When and How You Will Get It
    • Should I Pay Off My Student Loans Right Now
    • How to Minimize Student Loan Debt
    • View All Articles >
    Are you ready for college? You are with GradGuard
  • Student Loans
    • FAFSA
    • PRIVATE STUDENT LOANS
    • FEDERAL STUDENT LOANS
    • REPAY STUDENT LOANS
    • LENDER REVIEWS

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • FAFSA Deadlines for 2025-2026
    • FAFSA School Codes
    • FAFSA 2023-2024 Guide & Resources
    • View All Articles >
    College Ave Student Loans

    Variable rates as low as: 4.24% APR1

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.24% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Best Private Student Loans for June 2025
    • Student Loan Comparison: Federal Loans vs Private Loans
    • Parent PLUS Loans vs Private Student Loans
    • How Does Interest on Student Loans Work?
    • Private Student Loan Cosigner: Everything you Need to Know
    • View All Articles >
    College Ave Student Loans

    Variable rates as low as: 4.24% APR1

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.24% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Filing the FAFSA 2025-2026: A Simple Guide for Students
    • FAFSA FAQ - Your FAFSA Questions Answered
    • The complete guide to federal undergraduate student loans
    • What are Federal Parent PLUS Loans and How to Apply
    • Financial Aid for Graduate School
    • Compare Subsidized and Unsubsidized Student Loans
    • View All Articles >
    College Ave Student Loans

    Variable rates as low as: 4.24% APR1

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.24% APR1

    Apply Now

    featured articles

    • Best Student Loan Refinance Companies for June 2025
    • Federal Student Loan Repayment Plans
    • Student Loan Forgiveness: How to Get Student Loans Forgiven
    • Repayment Plans for Private Student Loans
    • Should You Refinance Federal Student Loans?
    • Parent PLUS Loan Forgiveness
    • View All Articles >
    Enter the Repayment Relief Sweepstakes

    featured articles

    • Sallie Mae Student Loan Review
    • College Ave Student Loan Review
    • SoFi Student Loan Review
    • Ascent Student Loan Review
    • View All Articles >
    College Ave Student Loans

    Variable rates as low as: 4.24% APR1

    Fixed rates as low as: 3.24% APR1

    Apply Now
  • Credit Cards
    • CARD REVIEWS
    • BEST CREDIT CARDS
    • CREDIT CARD FAQS

    featured articles

    • Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card Review
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    featured articles

    • Best Credit Cards for 2025
    • Best Cash Back Credit Cards
    • Best 0% Introductory APR Credit Cards
    • Best Secured Credit Cards for 2025
    • Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    featured articles

    • How to Build Credit?
    • What Age Can You Get a Credit Card?
    • What is a Secured Credit Card?
    • What is an Unsecured Credit Card?
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.
  • Money Management
    • BANKING
    • BUDGETING
    • SAVING
    • DEBT MANAGEMENT
    • CREDIT
    • INVESTING
    • RISK MANAGEMENT

    featured articles

    • What is Online Banking
    • Student Checking Accounts
    • Debit Cards with Rewards
    • View All Articles >
    Chase College Checking Visa Debit

    featured articles

    • Best Budgeting Apps June 2025
    • Budgeting Tips
    • Budgeting for Beginners
    • View All Articles >
    Change Your Relationship With Money

    featured articles

    • Financial Goals
    • How to Save Money as a College Student
    • What is an Emergency Fund
    • View All Articles >
    Change Your Relationship With Money

    featured articles

    • How to Pay Off Debt
    • Debt Relief
    • What is a Debt Management Plan
    • View All Articles >
    Change Your Relationship With Money

    featured articles

    • How to Check Your Credit Score
    • Best Credit Building Apps June 2025
    • What is Credit?
    • View All Articles >
    Self Credit Builder: Build Credit. Build Savings. Build Dreams.

    featured articles

    • Investing for Beginners
    • Best Investment Apps June 2025
    • Understanding the Stock Market
    • View All Articles >
    Change Your Relationship With Money

    featured articles

    • What is Risk Management
    • How to Prevent Identity Theft
    • What is Insurance
    • View All Articles >
    Change Your Relationship With Money
  • Student LIFE Blog
  • Compare Lenders
    • Private Student Loans
    • Refinance Student Loans
  • Scholarships
  • Plan for College
  • Student Loans
  • Credit Cards
  • Money Management
  • Student LIFE Blog
Login
Register
  • Dashboard
  • My Profile
  • Logout
Search Box Form
Win a $2,500 Scholarship
Need money for college? Enter our monthly scholarship sweepstakes.
Enter Now
Advertiser Disclosure
×

Edvisors (“Edvisors Network, Inc.”) provides independent advertising-supported platforms for consumers to search compare and apply for private student loans. Loan offers from participating lenders that appear on our websites are not affiliated with any college and/or universities, and there are no colleges and/or universities which endorse Edvisors’ products or services. Lender search results do not constitute an official college preferred lender list. Edvisors receives compensation from lenders that appear on this site. This compensation may impact the placement of where lenders appear on this site, for example, the order in which the lenders appear when included in a list. Not all lenders participate in our sites and lenders that do participate may not offer loans to every school.

Edvisors is not a lender and makes no representations or warranties about your eligibility for a particular loan or financial aid. Lenders are solely responsible for any and all credit decisions, loan approval and rates, terms and other costs of the loan offered and may vary based upon the lender you select. Please check with your school or lender directly for information related to your personal eligibility.

Edvisors has endeavored to provide accurate information. However, the results provided by lenders are for illustrative purposes only and accuracy is not guaranteed, as such, Edvisors assumes no responsibility for errors or omission in the information provided.

Advertiser Disclosure
×

Edvisors (“Edvisors Network, Inc.”) provides independent advertising-supported websites. The Edvisors websites’ goal is to provide relevant and helpful content and comparison tools to better assist consumers to search and compare financial products or services. The offers, products or services listed on our websites are from third-party advertisers or companies from which Edvisors receives compensation. This compensation may impact the placement of where products or advertisements appear on this site, for example, the order in which the products appear when included in a list. Not all providers participate in our sites and providers that do participate may not offer the entire suite of applicable credit cards or financial products provided by the provider or available in the marketplace.

Edvisors is not a lender and makes no representations or warranties about your eligibility for a particular credit card, financial product, or service. The third-party providers are solely responsible for any and all credit decisions, loan approval and rates. Terms and other costs of the credit card or financial product may vary based upon the provider you select. Not all consumers will qualify for the advertised rates and terms.

Edvisors does not purport to offer financial advice related to the purchase or sale of financial products or services. We are not an investment, brokerage, or financial advisory service. Information provided with respect to financial products and services are solely intended for educational purposes. In addition, we recognize each person may have unique and individualized financial needs and we recommend and encourage you to seek the expert advice of qualified professionals regarding your specific financial needs.

Edvisors has endeavored to provide accurate, up to date information. However, because credit card offers and financial products change frequently and do not originate with us, we recommend you check the offering provider for complete terms and conditions, rates, costs, and other fees. Providers do not commission, review or approve the information available on the site. Information provided on the site is for illustrative purposes only and accuracy is not guaranteed, as such, Edvisors assumes no responsibility for errors or omission in the information provided.

Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on our websites are disclaimed.

×
Get Your Free Guide to Filing the FAFSA Today!

Thank you for your interest in Edvisors' 2020-2021 Guide to Filing the FAFSA.

Please complete the form below to access your free copy.

Thank you! Click here to download your free FAFSA Guide.

I am a:

×
College knowledge starts here!

Enter your email below to receive your Student Loan Handbook from Edvisors.

Please check your email for the Student Loan Handbook.

After Navigation
Home » Blog » Guide to Going Greek in College
  • Contents
  • Acceptance Rates
  • Requirements to Rush
  • Costs
  • Social Expectations & Time Commitments
  • Housing Considerations
  • Tips for Successful Rushing

Guide to Going Greek in College

Penny Redlin
By Penny Redlin
February 12, 2025
Email This Article
Fill out the form below to send a copy of this article to your email.
By clicking "Submit" I have read and agree to the Edvisors' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We strongly encourage you to read our Privacy Policy to understand how we use and share your information.
A copy of this article has been sent to your email.

Greek life refers to the community of fraternities and sororities on college campuses. These organizations are named after Greek letters and are more than just social clubs—they play an important role in college culture. For many students, joining Greek life is a way to make friendships, build leadership skills, and contribute to meaningful causes.

Fraternities and sororities focus on more than just fun. They are social organizations that help students connect and form a support system, but they also promote academic success by encouraging good study habits and offering tutoring or peer support. Many of these organizations are heavily involved in service, organizing fundraisers and volunteer projects to give back to their local communities.

Greek life also offers a variety of experiences. You can take part in leadership positions that teach responsibility and teamwork, get involved in philanthropy to make a difference, and create connections that last long after college. While rushing and joining a fraternity or sorority isn’t for everyone, it can be an exciting opportunity to grow, give back, and build lifelong friendships.

Acceptance Rates

When it comes to rushing, one important thing to know is that acceptance rates can vary quite a bit depending on the school, the size of the Greek system, and the specific chapter you’re interested in. On most campuses, acceptance rates for Greek organizations typically fall in the range of 70-90%, which means many students who rush do get in. However, at more competitive schools or with particularly popular chapters, the acceptance rates can be much lower.

Compatibility with the chapter’s culture is very important. Each organization has its own values, traditions, and vibe, so finding one that matches your goals and personality will increase your chance of joining. Keep these things in mind as you prepare for rush, and remember, it’s all about finding the right fit for you.

Requirements to Rush

If you're considering rushing a fraternity or sorority, there are some general requirements you'll need to meet to be eligible. Most colleges require you to be a full-time student enrolled at the school, so make sure your class schedule qualifies. Another important factor is your GPA—many Greek organizations set a minimum GPA requirement, which is usually around a 2.5 or higher, though this can vary by chapter and campus. 

You’ll likely need to attend an orientation session about the recruitment process. These sessions are designed to introduce you to Greek life and help you understand what's expected during rush. Make sure you register for recruitment events by the deadlines provided by your campus or the organization's council. Registration often involves filling out forms, paying a small fee, and sometimes submitting a photo or personal information about your interests and background.

Keep in mind that requirements might differ between fraternities and sororities or even between individual chapters on the same campus. Double-check the specific guidelines on your school’s Greek life website to ensure you’re fully prepared before recruitment begins. Following these steps will help set you up for a successful start in finding the right chapter for you.

Costs

Joining a Greek organization comes with financial commitments that you should be aware of before rushing. First, there are recruitment or rush registration fees, which typically cover the costs of hosting recruitment events and are usually around $25 to $100. Once you receive a bid and decide to join, you’ll pay initial new member fees. These are often higher than regular dues and can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the chapter and campus. After your first semester, you’ll begin paying regular membership dues, which usually fall between $300 and $1,500 per semester. 

Beyond these basic costs, there are other expenses to consider. Many chapters encourage members to purchase apparel like Greek letter sweatshirts or event-specific outfits. You might also be asked to contribute to social events, which could include tickets for formals, mixers, or other activities. 

Most organizations require donations or involvement in philanthropy efforts, which might add to your costs. Altogether, being part of Greek life can total between $500 and $2,000 or more per semester, so it’s important to budget accordingly and ask chapters upfront about their financial expectations.

Social Expectations & Time Commitments

Joining Greek life isn’t just about letters on a sweatshirt—it’s about being part of a community that shapes your social and personal life in college. If you’re considering rushing, you should know that the social side of Greek life is a big part of the experience. 

Chapters host events like mixers, formals, and chapter bonding activities where you’ll have the chance to meet new people, make lifelong friendships, and build a strong network. These events can be a lot of fun, but they’re also a chance to connect with others and strengthen your relationships within the chapter.

It’s important to understand that Greek life culture isn’t one-size-fits-all. While some chapters may have a reputation for being very social, others focus more on academics, service, or leadership. Stereotypes about Greek life don’t always reflect reality, so take the time to learn about the chapters on your campus to find the one that fits you best.

Beyond the social events, Greek life comes with time commitments that you should expect and plan for. Most chapters have weekly meetings where members discuss upcoming events and chapter business. You’ll likely participate in philanthropy projects, fundraisers, and required events such as retreats or ceremonies. 

New members, or pledges, often have additional responsibilities, such as attending educational sessions to learn about the chapter’s history or bonding activities with your pledge class. These commitments can add up, and it’s essential to be prepared for the time you’ll need to dedicate.

Time management will be your best friend as you balance academics, work, and your Greek life activities. Make sure to prioritize your studies and build a schedule that works for you. With the right planning, you can enjoy all the benefits of being part of Greek life without feeling overwhelmed.

Housing Considerations

Housing is another important factor to think about when considering Greek life. Some fraternities and sororities may require their members to live in the chapter house for at least part of their college experience. These houses are often close to campus, which can save you time getting to class and activities. 

Living in a chapter house also provides a built-in community where you’re surrounded by your brothers or sisters, making it easier to bond and stay involved. Many students find that chapter housing can be more affordable than dorms or apartments, especially when meals are included as part of the house plan.  

It’s important to know that not all chapters require you to live in the house. If you prefer to have your own space or stay in a dorm or apartment, you can usually still remain an active member and participate fully in Greek life. It’s a good idea to ask each chapter about their housing policies and costs when you rush so you can find an arrangement that works best for you.

Tips for Successful Rushing

Rushing can be an exciting and overwhelming experience, but with the right approach, you can make the most of it. Here are some tips to help you succeed during recruitment:

  • Attend as Many Events as Possible: These events are your chance to meet members and get a feel for each chapter’s personality, values, and activities. The more you attend, the better you’ll understand which chapter might be the best fit for you.
  • Be Authentic and Confident: When you introduce yourself to chapter members, don’t try to be someone you’re not. Show them who you really are, and be confident in your uniqueness. Chapters are looking for members who will contribute positively and naturally fit in with their group.
  • Dress Appropriately: Each recruitment event might have a different dress code, so check your school’s guidelines or ask others with experience. Dressing appropriately shows that you’re prepared and respectful of the process.
  • Ask Thoughtful Questions: Use your time with chapter members to learn more about them. Ask questions about their values, expectations, and what kind of activities they’re involved in. This shows that you’re genuinely interested and thinking seriously about joining.
  • Keep an Open Mind: Don’t focus only on the most popular or well-known chapters. Every chapter has something unique to offer, and you might end up finding your perfect fit in a place you didn’t expect.  
  • Don’t Take Rejections Personally: If a chapter doesn’t extend you an invite, remember that it’s not a reflection of your worth. Recruitment is a two-way process, and not every chapter will be the right match for everyone. Stay positive, and explore other chapters or opportunities to connect on campus.  

Greek life offers a chance to build lifelong friendships, participate in meaningful traditions, and engage in activities like philanthropy and social events. However, it also requires time, effort, and dedication, as members must balance commitments like chapter meetings and community service with academics and personal goals. 

Before joining, it’s important to reflect on whether the values and lifestyle of Greek life align with your own. With careful consideration, joining a fraternity or sorority can be a rewarding experience filled with growth and connection.

 
Share

Penny Redlin

Penny is the Content Marketing Manager for Edvisors.  She is tasked with optimizing website content and managing SEO performance.  A seasoned marketer with a diverse background in brand management, e-commerce and digital marketing, Penny brings an array of experience with her. An MBA from the University of Chicago, entrepreneur and author, Penny's experience offers a unique view to content creation and curating.

Find Penny Redlin on LinkedIn.

If you would like to schedule an interview with Penny, please reach out to us at [email protected]

About Edvisors

For 20 years we have been known as one of the largest and most trusted resources to help you find your path to success. Everyone needs to find their own path, and we know that first-hand. Helping you reach your educational and financial goals without stress, is our mission. Let's face it, it may be unavoidable to borrow money, but there are ways to do it wisely, including making the right choices up front, as well as during repayment. If we can help you make an informed and careful decision, we consider that a good day in the office.

Find information on this site to help you plan and pay for college as well as manage your money with confidence.

Related Content

On Campus vs Off Campus Housing
Penny Redlin
May 12, 2025

Living on-campus can be like having a pass to an exclusive club where everything was happening. Transitioning to off-campus housing you will trade convenience for independence. Both experiences can be formative, each teaching invaluable lessons in community, responsibility, and autonomy.

Read Article
The Cost of Greek Life on Campus
Penny Redlin
May 12, 2025

Greek life can be an enriching part of the college experience, providing a network of friendships, leadership experiences, and community involvement. However, it's important to have an honest conversation about the financial expectations that come with membership.

 

Read Article
Dining on Campus
Penny Redlin
May 09, 2025
College life can be an exhilarating journey, marked by newfound freedoms and responsibilities—one of which includes making wise dining choices. Understanding your school dining options is more than a matter of knowing where to find the campus dining halls; it encourages students to work towards maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Read Article
Subscription Services and Their Impact on Debt Previous Article Blog Home What Happens to Student Loans if the U.S. Department of Education is Eliminated? Next Article
Could You Be Saving More?
Subscribe to Edvisors' Student LIFE Newsletter to receive up-to-date financial aid information and advice, explore scholarship opportunities, loan repayment options, and learn expert strategies on how to plan and pay for college.
Newsletter Form
By clicking "Subscribe" I have read and agree to the Edvisors' Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. We strongly encourage you to read our Privacy Policy to understand how we use and share your information.
Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter.
We care about your privacy

This website uses cookies to offer you the most relevant marketing and targeted advertisements which in some states may be considered a sale of your personal information. You may exercise your right to opt out by clicking on deny cookies. Please accept cookies for the optimal experience. You can withdraw or modify your consent for non-essential cookies at any time by visiting Cookie Settings page

This website uses cookies for targeted advertising which in some states may be considered a sale of your personal information. You may opt out by clicking on deny cookies. Please accept cookies for the optimal experience. You can change your consent for such cookies via the Cookie Settings page

Edvisors
  • About Us
  • Official Rules
  • Careers
  • Team
  • Testimonials
Resources
  • Blog
  • Newsletter
  • Tools and Calculators
  • Video Resources
  • Financial Terms Glossary
  • Site Map
Media
  • Edvisors In the News
  • Press
Contact Us
  • Help
  • Ask the Edvisor
  • Student Aid FAQ
  • Directions
Partners
  • Advertise
  • Become an Affiliate
  • Link to Us
Legal
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy
  • Consumer Health Privacy Notice
  • General Website Disclaimer
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Notice at Collection
  • Cookie Settings
  • Your Privacy Choices Your Privacy Choices Icon

Better Business Bureau logo

Edvisors provides expert advice on planning and paying for college. On Edvisors.com easily compare student loan lenders, learn how to apply for financial aid, and discover scholarships. Learn about federal and private student loans for students and parents, how and when to apply to college, and more!

Edvisors (“Edvisors Network, Inc.”) provides independent advertising-supported platforms for consumers to search compare and apply for private student loans. Loan offers from participating lenders that appear on our websites are not affiliated with any college and/or universities, and there are no colleges and/or universities which endorse Edvisors’ products or services. Lender search results do not constitute an official college preferred lender list. Edvisors receives compensation from lenders that appear on this site. This compensation may impact the placement of where lenders appear on this site, for example, the order in which the lenders appear when included in a list. Not all lenders participate in our sites and lenders that do participate may not offer loans to every school.

Edvisors is not a lender and makes no representations or warranties about your eligibility for a particular loan or financial aid. Lenders are solely responsible for any and all credit decisions, loan approval and rates, terms and other costs of the loan offered and may vary based upon the lender you select. Please check with your school or lender directly for information related to your personal eligibility.

Edvisors has endeavored to provide accurate information. However, the results provided by lenders are for illustrative purposes only and accuracy is not guaranteed, as such, Edvisors assumes no responsibility for errors or omission in the information provided.

Copyright © 1998-2025 by Edvisors Network, Inc. All rights reserved.

All other trademarks and service marks displayed on Edvisors Network, Inc. websites are the property of their respective owners.

Edvisors Network, Inc. 350 S. Rampart Blvd, Suite 200, Las Vegas, NV 89145

Copyright © 2025 by Edvisors.com. All rights reserved.