Why Join?

Sending a student to college can be an exciting yet challenging time in a family's life. While at the University of Iowa, your student will encounter many opportunities to become involved outside of their classroom experience. It is important that you, the family, be educated about the enriching experience that your student will find being involved in a fraternity or sorority at the University of Iowa.

The 157-year tradition of fraternity and sorority membership at Iowa provides an immediate connection to a close-knit group of students, helping to make Iowa feel more like home. Fraternity and sorority members are some of the most active student leaders on campus and can introduce your student to a multitude of other student organizations and leadership opportunities. Participating in Fraternity and Sorority Life is a great way to ensure a well-rounded undergraduate experience, and we hope it will be a part of that journey.

What is my role as a family member?

  • Ask questions. Ask what organizations will offer your student in order to make the best decision for them. Fraternities and sororities are different on each campus, so allow your student to pick the group with whom they feel most comfortable.  
  • Keep an open mind. Fraternity and Sorority Life is not for everyone. Just because you may have been a fraternity or sorority member doesn't mean that it is the right choice for your student.
  • Discuss the financial obligations with your student. Determine who will pay for what and the limits those expenses may include. Each fraternity and sorority has its own dues/costs for their organization and it is important for your student to ask about financial expectations before joining. Many one-time fees are paid during the first semester of membership, so expect the first few months to be the most expensive. Joining a fraternity or sorority is a lifetime commitment, both personally and financially! You can view additional information about financial responsibilities here.
  • Above all be supportive! Help guide your student in making a decision that best suits them.

Additional Resources