FAQ
Reach out!
At any point you can DM @colgatepanhellenic on Instagram with your questions or contact the Recruitment Team at panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu.
You can also check out our PNM Guidebook!
When is Sorority Formal Recruitment?
Formal Recruitment will be held on Wednesday, September 10, through
Saturday, September 13, 2025
How many sororities at Colgate University participate in sorority recruitment?
There are three sororities that participate in sorority recruitment. These sororities are Gamma Phi Beta, Delta Delta Delta, and Kappa Kappa Gamma. All three sororities are associated with national or international organizations and recognized by Colgate University. Their national and local websites are a great place to find more information, as well as the chapter pages on our website!
What is the cost to go through Sorority Primary Recruitment?
There is no cost to go through Sorority Primary Recruitment.
Can I join if I'm not a second year student? Can I join as a third or fourth year student?
Yes! Our community is filled with a variety of individuals who have different backgrounds and experiences. Going through recruitment at any point during your collegiate career is encouraged.
What are the requirements for joining a sorority?
First, all students seeking membership in a Fraternity or Sorority must be a Sophomore or higher standing at Colgate University. All Sorority chapters have different GPA requirements, so we would recommend having at least a 2.7 GPA. Specific chapters may have their own requirements.
Those will be disclosed by the chapters early on in the recruitment process.
In addition to academic requirements, there are also time commitments that members are required to adhere to. Members are expected to attend chapter meetings, events, service projects, and philanthropic fundraisers. Prospective members should have conversations with chapter members about the time commitments that members are expected to uphold.
What are the financial obligations for joining a sorority?
All sorority chapters charge members chapter dues. Chapter dues are utilized to sustain chapter operations and fund the leadership and educational programming, social activities, and philanthropic and service projects that are important to the Fraternity & Sorority experience. Chapters do not receive funding from the University, therefore, rely on these chapter dues to operate.
Additionally, each sorority offers opportunities for meal plans and housing (housing is only for Juniors & Seniors). Meal plans and housing costs are comparable to the costs of other meal plans and housing options at Colgate University.
Will my current college GPA affect my chances of joining a sorority?
Member organizations do set GPA requirements for membership, though anyone can register for recruitment no matter their GPA.
It is possible after the first round of recruitment that you may not get invited back to a chapter where you had a great conversation if your GPA does not meet the chapter’s standards. You may also be released from the recruitment process if your GPA does not meet any chapter’s grade requirements. If you get released from recruitment related to your grades, recognize it is a standard of membership for all chapters. Focus on improving your college GPA, and if you remain interested in sorority membership (which we want you to do!), you can participate later during the continuous open bidding (COB) period or in primary recruitment the following year.
Also, during recruitment, ask about how sororities can support you academically once you become a member. If all this sounds intimidating, don’t worry! Every chapter has at least one person – and usually many more – dedicated to furthering academic success for members.
Will sorority membership affect my grades?
While joining a chapter will definitely take up some time in one’s schedule, it’s up to each member to manage time appropriately and maintain the academic standard that suits them.
All chapters emphasize high academic standards. There is recognition and scholarships for those who excel academically in addition to programs and support for those who may be struggling in their academic pursuits.
Do I have to live in the chapter house? When am I allowed to live in the chapter house?
In short, no, there is no specific requirement for a general member to live in the chapter house.
That said, as you engage in your chapter, you may pursue a leadership position within your chapter that requires you to live in the house (President, House Manager, etc.). Additionally, chapters are highly encouraged to fully occupy their chapter houses, so you may be asked to live in the house if it is not filled.
Only Juniors and Seniors are permitted to live in the chapter house. Sophomores are allowed and encouraged to visit and hang out at the chapter house, as well as eat their specified meals at the chapter house.
What should I talk about during sorority recruitment?
The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Don't be afraid to ask questions because it is very important for you to get to know the women and the chapters. Some questions you may want to ask are:
-
What are the expectations of your new member program?
-
What is your philanthropy?
-
What kind of academic program do you have?
-
What campus activities is your sorority or its members involved in?
-
What's your favorite part about being in a sorority?
-
What leadership opportunities are there?
If I go through recruitment do I have to join a sorority?
Participating in Primary Recruitment does not obligate you to join. Recruitment is a time to meet new people and explore the opportunities and benefits of Sorority Life, and there is no requirement to join the community even if you sign up for recruitment or choose to go through some events. Please keep in mind the requirements once one signs an MRABA. We will provide more information on this and if there is any confusion please contact panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu.
Who should I talk to if I am unsure about continuing the process?
We are happy to help chat through your thoughts and support you in making the best decision for you.
Feel free to message us on Instagram at @colgatepanhellenic or email panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu with any questions that may arise.
Once you are registered for recruitment, you can contact your Recruitment Counselor (once assigned) about any of your questions or concerns, or reach out to any member of the Panhellenic Recruitment Team.
Anything else?
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns regarding recruitment, feel free to DM us on Instagram at @colgatepanhellenic or email the Recruitment Team at panhelleniccouncil@colgate.edu.