What Sorority and Fraternity chapters are recognized by Washington University?

Currently, Washington University is pleased to recognize 10 IFC fraternities, six WPA sororities, nine NPHC organizations, and one National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations, Inc., (NALFO) organization.

What percentage of Washington University students belong to sororities or fraternities?

Over 1,200 students, which is around 18% of the undergraduate population.

How will being a member of a Sorority and Fraternity Life organization contribute to and/or hinder my son’s or daughter’s educational experience?

The GPA for fraternity and sorority students is consistently higher than the all undergraduate GPA.  Chapters place value in the academic experience in addition to enhancing the overall undergraduate experience at Washington University. Scholarship is promoted by providing academic resources for their members, including tutoring, academic advisors, study groups, scholarships, and awards.

Do fraternities and sororities have houses?

The university owns and operates 11 on-campus houses that have been traditionally occupied by IFC fraternity chapters. Currently, 9 of the 11 house fraternity men. WPA chapters have suites in the Women’s Building where chapters can gather to create community. For more information about housing please visit Fraternity Housing.

How can I learn more about Sorority and Fraternity Life?

Councils and chapters host a variety of events that are open to the public and potential new members each semester. For information on recruitment, visit Joining a Sorority or Fraternity.

What requirements are there to join a fraternity or sorority?

n order to be eligible for membership within any sorority or fraternity at Washington University, students must be enrolled in 12 hours as an undergraduate student at Washington University during the semester student goes through recruitment. Graduate and professional students are not permitted to join a fraternity or sorority at Washington University. See Joining a Sorority or Fraternity for more information on eligibility.

When does my daughter need to be back on campus to go through WPA recruitment?

This information will be available closer to the end of the Fall 2024 Semester-please check back for dates.

Does my son need to be back on campus prior to the beginning of class for IFC recruitment?

No, IFC recruitment begins after classes begin.

Will my son or daughter have to worry about hazing as a part of their Greek experience?

Any activity organized by a student organization, or members of a student organization at Washington University in St. Louis, which involves a member in practices which are injurious, or potentially injurious to an individual’s physical, emotional, or psychological well being (as determined at the sole discretion of the university) shall be immediate cause for disciplinary action.

It shall not matter whether such practices were mandatory, or voluntarily entered into by any of the student organization members in question, including new and initiated members.

Missouri Law makes it illegal to participate in or cause acts of hazing. Hazing is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000, imprisonment of up to one year, or both. However, if the hazing “creates a substantial risk to the life of the student or prospective member,” the act is a Class C felony punishable by fines up to $5,000, imprisonment of up to seven years, or both. Under Missouri Law, consent is not a defense for hazing.

Hazing may be reported to Campus Life, the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards, Washington University Police Department, or the Dean of Students.

Who should we contact if we have questions or concerns about Sorority and Fraternity Life at Washington University?

For any additional information, contact Zachary Littrell Assistant Director for Campus Life.