Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Membership

  1. What is Phi Kappa Phi?

    Phi Kappa Phi is an academic honor society founded in 1897 whose chief purpose is to reward and recognize scholarly achievement in all majors and disciplines in the university. The Auburn University Chapter, founded in May 1914, was one of the first honor societies established on this campus.

    The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society. Standards for election are extremely high. Because Phi Kappa Phi is highly selective, membership indicates excellence that is recognized by graduate and professional school admissions committees and employers alike.

    Our invitation for you to join recognizes your distinguished performance in academics, research, and/or leadership, sustained over a period of years. So our invitations are typically extended late in the undergraduate career or late in professional or graduate study. Our invitation to join Phi Kappa Phi marks your transition from accomplished work of high merit to further exceptional attainment.

  2. How are members selected at the Auburn chapter?

    Membership in the Auburn chapter is by invitation only and is based on three criteria: 1) superior scholastic achievement as measured by your unadjusted cumulative GPA, 2) satisfactory progress toward your degree objective, and 3) a demonstrated concern for the promotion of excellence. Each semester the Auburn University Chapter invites to Phi Kappa Phi membership seniors and graduating graduate students who are in the top 10 percent of their class and certain highly qualified (top 7.5%) juniors. Nursing and Pharmacy students are invited in the Spring semester. Veterinary Medicine students are invited in the Fall semester. For more information, please visit the Membership section of our chapter's Web site.

  3. What are the membership dues?

    Membership dues at the Auburn University Chapter are $100.00. This amount covers initiation fees and first year dues to the Society; a Society pin; a membership certificate suitable for framing; and one-year subscription to the Society's quarterly magazine, the Phi Kappa Phi Forum. Each issue focuses on a single topic and is written by top scholars.

  4. What are benefits of membership?

    The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi offers numerous benefits that can assist members throughout their academic and professional lives. Our global focus on resources allows Phi Kappa Phi members to connect and network with one another from every corner of the world.   

    Benefits of membership may include, but are not limited to, the following:

    • Recognition for academic achievement by the nation's oldest, largest, and most selective all-discipline honor society
    • Career assistance to post résumés, search newly listed position openings, and manage job applications
    • Opportunities to apply for awards and scholarships valued at more than $1,000,000 per year
    • Partner discounts on certain products and services
    • Society publications such as the Phi Kappa Phi Forum
    • Networking, training, and leadership opportunities

    For more information about benefits of membership, please visit the Benefits and Resources webpage on the Phi Kappa Phi Web site.

  5. How do I get my member number?

    Your member number is assigned by the National Office when you join online. You will receive your member number and you will create a password when you join online. You may begin to use this information to enjoy membership benefits.

    To inquire about membership status, contact the Society Headquarters at 1-800-804-9880 ext.211 or members@phikappaphi.org.

  6. What can this society mean to you after graduation?

    Phi Kappa Phi recognizes excellence. Membership in the Society carries with it the respect of your academic faculty/advisors, family, friends, peers, and employers. You may find membership in the Society opens "doors" for future employment, and membership will provide you an advantage because others know that Phi Kappa Phi members represent the very best and brightest higher education has to offer.

Initiation

  1. When does the Auburn chapter hold initiation?

    The Auburn University Chapter holds an initiation ceremony during the last week of classes each Fall and Spring semester. The ceremony format is similar to a graduation ceremony; chapter officers wear academic robes, initiates are seated together, and each initiate's name is called to receive the membership packet.

    The ceremony is usually held in the Student Center Ballroom at 5:30 p.m. or 5:45 p.m.

  2. Is attendance required at the initiation ceremony?

    Attendance at the initiation ceremony is requested; however, if your schedule does not permit your attendance, you will be initiated in absentia. When you join online, you will indicate whether or not you will attend the initiation ceremony, and you will have the option to request your membership certificate to be mailed to you.

  3. How long is the initiation ceremony?

    The ceremony usually takes about 45 minutes.

  4. How do I purchase a stole or honor cords?

    To purchase a stole ($26) or honor cords ($15), use your member number and password and order from the Phi Kappa Phi online store. Shipping charges will apply. Allow three (3) weeks for your order to be shipped and received.

  5. How do I claim my membership packet if I missed the initiation ceremony?

    Membership packets are available for pick up 30 days after the initiation ceremony. Directions will be provided to assist you with claiming your packet.

  6. How can I have my membership packet sent to me?

    If you cannot attend the ceremony, you will have the option in the online registration process to request your membership packet to be mailed to you.