Greek Life
Frequently Asked Questions
Do fraternities and sororities party all the time? What if I don’t drink or I’m not interested in that?
Most fraternities and sororities are values based organizations and promote positive
aspects such as academics, community service, leadership, and lifelong connection.
Although some fraternities and sororities have reputations for being big partiers,
this is not always the reality. Don’t believe everything you see on MTV or in the
movies. Fraternities and sororities are meant to enhance your academic experience
as a college student, not detract from it. Also, all Greek-letter organizations have
policies that prohibit underage members from drinking.
Do fraternities and sororities haze?
Hazing is illegal in the State of Texas and is a violation of the code of conduct
at The University of Texas at Tyler. All fraternities and sororities have anti-hazing
policies, too. Students seeking membership in Greek-letter organizations should never
be asked to engage in any behavior nor do anything that makes them feel uncomfortable.
This is considered hazing and will not be tolerated. If at any time you feel as though
you are being hazed, please contact the Office of Engagement or the VP of Student
Affairs. For additional hazing information, follow this link and scroll to the bottom of the page.
How do I go about joining a fraternity or sorority?
If you are interested in learning more about fraternity and sorority life or are interested
in joining a group, check out our how to join page. Some chapters participate in "formal"/ "primary"/ "structured" recruitment,
which is a process of mutual selection between current members and potential new members
(PNM's) or candidates. You can also continue to check this website from time-to-time
for more details, as many of the groups will continue to accept members throughout
the school year.
Other chapters participate in an intake process, which begins with a formal informational session or formal rush where prospective members can learn about the organization, policies and expectations related to the intake process, and what they need to do in order to apply. From here, applications are usually submitted and then selected candidates will participate in educational meetings over the course of a few weeks. You can watch for flyers and ads in the student newspaper or on Instagram/Twitter/Facebook that will give more information about these processes.
What are the grade and/or enrollment requirements to join a fraternity or sorority?
Individual fraternities and sororities do have a specific grade point average and
credit hour requirements to join their organizations, so please check the Sorority Recruitment and Fraternity Recruitment websites for more information.
How much does it cost to join a fraternity or sorority?
Costs to join a fraternity or sorority vary from organization to organization. Typically,
the fees the first semester a student joins are higher than subsequent semesters.
Most fraternities and sororities have payment plans, and many members have part-time
jobs on and off campus in order to help them pay their dues. You do not have to be
rich to be Greek! It can be expensive to operate a Greek organization, and dues go
toward national fees, service projects, social events, and other resources for members.
Do I have to live in the fraternity or sorority house if I join?
Currently, The University of Texas at Tyler does not have any type sorority or fraternity
housing.
Uipdated 3/2/2021