Why join Phi Kappa Phi?
It is no possible to join Phi Kappa Phi just because you want to; the only access to this Society is by invitation duly voted and extended by a chapter in accordance with the constitution of both the chapter and the by-laws of the national society. Both the local chapter and the national office prescribe superior scholarship and good character as criteria for membership.

So the real question is "Why try to meet the criteria?" Here are some of the answers:

• Phi Kappa Phi is an honor society, not an honorary society or fraternity. Membership in it is earned; it is a real honor.

• Meeting Phi Kappa Phi's criteria means excellence which, in turn, means distinction.

• Because of their outstanding records, members of Phi Kappa Phi are always good candidates for grants, scholarships, and fellowships from institutions where they may continue their education or do research. When they seek jobs, they find their Phi Kappa Phi membership is becoming more widely accepted as an indication of academic ability and motivation.

• Phi Kappa Phi, being interdisciplinary and thus drawing its membership from all colleges, divisions, or departments within the academic institution, is a unifying force in education today. It is in a unique position to cultivate consciousness of relationships by bringing together individuals from a variety of disciplines. It promotes the intellectual life of the community.

• The variety to be found in the Society's membership acquaints initiates with many options if they are in the process of trying to decide upon a career.

• Phi Kappa Phi is discriminating-never discriminatory!-in insisting upon a very high quality also in the institutions to which it grants chapters; e.g., it insists upon strong faculties and ample libraries. It is thus conscious of an obligation to assure its initiates that they are coming into a really worthwhile organization.

• Finally, Phi Kappa Phi provides for the association of kindred spirits-kindred in the sense of having integrity of character and the highest of ideals, as well as an abiding love of learning.

Who is eligible for membership?
Undergraduate students who have senior status and are in the upper 10% and juniors in the upper 7.5% of their class are eligible. Faculty members and graduate students who are in the upper 10% of the number of candidates for degrees during the year may be elected. Faculty members and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction may, in limited numbers, be elected to membership. An occasional honorary or distinguished member may be elected by a chapter, with approval of the Board of Directors.

When does Phi Kappa Phi meet?
Four meetings are held each year. Each semester a business meeting is held in which new applicants are voted into membership and regular business of the organization is conducted. In the fall semester an initiation ceremony is held in which new members are inducted.  In the spring semester a banquet is held during which new members are inducted and other ceremonies are conducted.

What does it cost to be a member?
The current initiation fee is $60. This covers the first year's dues, subscription to the Phi Kappa Phi Forum for a year, the certificate, Phi Kappa Phi medallion, the banquet meal, and the initiate's choice of an insignia charm, pin, or tie tack. Once initiated into Phi Kappa Phi you are always a member. Active membership may be maintained by paying annual Society dues of $25. An active-for-life membership fee is $300. If you wish to maintain only local membership, local dues are $10.