Frequently Asked Questions

What is a fraternity?
Fraternities are often referred to as secret, Greek-lettered societies. Fraternities have been part of the higher education landscape for centuries. All fraternities at SLU are affiliated with a national organization. Social fraternities should not be confused with the many academic and honor societies that operate on campus. Both share the Greek-letter name and have some other similarities, but each serves a different function. It is possible for a student to be a member of a social fraternity and an academic or honor society.

Who oversees the fraternity system?
The Inter-fraternity Council (IFC) oversees the fraternity system on the campus. The IFC has advisors who work with the chapters and the governing councils. We also have our own alumni and volunteers who assist and advise our chapter. Our national office also has staff and volunteers visit our chapters at least once a year.

How do I get involved with Greek life at Saint Louis University?
It is very simple to get involved with Greek Life at SLU. Every semester the Fraternities hold a meet and great before Rush starts in which students interested in finding out about Greek Life can come and meet all of the Fraternities.

What is your pledge period like?
Our pledge period is 10 weeks in length. During this period pledges are involved in many activities that teach them about the history Beta Theta Pi and what it means to be a Beta. There is no hazing in Beta Theta Pi. In Beta Theta Pi our nationals and internationals have banned hazing throughout all chapters. Once the pledging period is over, the pledges will be initiated and become Betas for life.

How many men will pledge this semester?
There is no set number or quota that we try to fill each semester. The number of pledges are often higher in the fall than the spring due to a higher interest to join fraternities by freshman in the fall. Beta Theta Pi does not discriminate by age, race, background, or economic status.

What kind of grades do members of Beta Theta Pi earn?
The Zeta Tau Chapter of Beta Theta Pi consistently retains one of the highest GPAs among Greek Organizations. Our average GPA last semester was above 3.0. As a part of The Men of Principle Initiative, the brothers of the Zeta Tau chapter of Beta Theta Pi are devoted to the cultivation of the intellect and consider academics to be one of our top priorities.

Is there a grade requirement to join?
Yes, the grade requirement to pledge or to be an active member of Beta Theta Pi is a 3.0 cumulative GPA.

What organizations do Betas participate in?
Betas are involved in numerous organizations across campus, including: Student Government Association, SLU Intramurals, SLU club sports teams, Inter Fraternity Council, Residential life, Student Conduct Board, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Relay for Life. The Greeks at SLU make up the majority of leadership positions in every school committee and group.

How competitive are your intramural teams?
We have intramural teams in every sport. We are competitive in our intramural teams, finishing among the top of all teams every season.

What type of social events do you hold?
Every year Beta Theta Pi holds numerous social events such as out many themed parties along with mixers with sororities, a Philanthropy week, and group outings to go on Brotherhood retreats and attending Billiken sporting events.