FAQ

Q: What am I going to get out of this?

A: You'll be amazed at what you will get from your fraternity experience. Joining a fraternity rounds out the collegiate experience. We often say that you get a complete education in a fraternity. Here's what a fraternity offers: lifelong friends, leadership opportunities, social and sports activities, academic support and excellence, and networking opportunities. 

Q: How will my grades be affected?

A: Ideally, they should shoot way up! Academics must be your first priority. The fraternity can offer support in time management, tutoring, study enhancement and incentives, and class assistance. It's up to you to make sure that you do well. 

Q: What are the total costs to be a member of a fraternity?

A: A good, but difficult, question. Each fraternity's dues structure is going to be different. It will also depend on whether or not the fraternity has a house. Joining a fraternity will usually require some sort of one time fee. Insurance will also be a major expense. Don't forget regular dues. What you shouldn't be paying for - ever - Alcohol. Visit the chapter contact information page or call the national headquarters if you still have questions.

Q: Do I need to dress up for recruitment events?

A: Short answer- No. Especially during summer formal recruitment. Kansas weather can get pretty hot, so dress comfortably. If you really want to dress up: polos, khakis, and sandals work just fine. Outside of Summer Formal, most events are informal, so wear whatever you like!

Q: What is a “Bid”?

A: This is an important part of fraternity vocabulary. The short answer is a "bid" is an invitation to membership in a fraternity. The term bid is most often used to describe a piece of paper from the chapter that formally invites a man to join the organization. You should know that every fraternity is unique and there are various methods used to invite someone to join. You should remember that the decision you make will be an important one. Do not rush or feel pressured into making a decision that will affect not only the remainder of your college career but also the rest of your life. Recruitment can be a very exciting time for a new student on campus or an upperclassman who has decided to make fraternity part of his college experience. Fraternities normally make a large push at the beginning of each semester to market themselves and spread the word about what they do around campus and in the community. Take advantage of this time to learn about the chapters on your campus and make an informed decision about which fraternity is right for you.

Q: Will I be hazed?

A: You absolutely should not be hazed. You should never participate in any activity that you feel uncomfortable with. If ever in doubt, don't hesitate to contact Alli Schultz, Coordinator of Sorority & Fraternity Life, primary advisor to the IFC community ars@ku.edu, (785) 864-1030. You can also contact your fraternity headquarters for more information or clarification.

You may also, at any time, fill out the University of Kansas Hazing Report form.