Fraternity & Sorority Recognition

Recognition is the formal process by which Duke University permits a fraternity or sorority to function on campus, conduct membership/intake activities, and be considered part of the university. For a fraternal organization to obtain recognition through the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life (FSL), it must:

• Operate under a constitution and bylaws that have been approved by FSL and one of the recognized Greek Governing Councils: Interfraternity Council (IFC), InterGreek Council (IGC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Panhellenic Association (Panhel).
• Demonstrate sound financial standing.
• Be affiliated with an inter/national fraternity or sorority.
• Present an initial membership list of at least three (3) currently registered, degree seeking students who are not on academic or disciplinary probation. (While Duke recognizes that some organizations share membership with other colleges and universities, this relationship must be approved by FSL.)
• Identify a person, who is not an undergraduate, to serve as the chapter advisor.

The university does not recognize local chapters unless the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life grants special consideration through prior approval. If consideration is given, a group can be recognized by the university during a provisional period not to exceed 12 months. During this period, local chapters must actively seek recognition from an inter/national organization. If inter/national recognition is not acquired, university recognition will be revoked.

Fraternity and Sorority Membership Recruitment/Intake Membership may be extended to students in the spring of their first year. Upperclass students may receive bids, or invitations to join recognized chapters, at any time.