Question 1

What if I'm not sure joining a fraternity is right for me?

Accepted Answer

There are many opportunities to learn about fraternities during the fall semester. Informational meetings are held during Orientation Week and throughout the rest of the semester. Formal recruitment is also a great time to explore the many chapters on our campus and to find the best fit for you. Cornell truly has a fraternity for everyone, and we invite you to find your perfect fit.

Question 2

Fraternities in the news seem to only party - is that what it is like?

Accepted Answer

Cornell prides itself on having one of the strongest Greek systems in America. Our chapters have an average GPA higher than the average GPA of non-Greek Cornellians, while also boasting a wide range of community engagement and campus leadership. With numerous opportunities for leadership, Cornell Greek life provides students with the ability to be a peer leader and gain valuable real-world experience while working professionally with others. Chapters at Cornell raise tens of thousands of dollars for philanthropy every year. Fraternities also serve as places to establish life-long friendships, professional enrichment, and mental health and well-being.

Question 3

What happens if I don't get into the fraternity I wanted to join?

Accepted Answer

We like to say that there is a fraternity for everyone on Cornell’s campus. Formal recruitment is a mutual selection process in which you decide your chapters you are interested in and chapters decide if you would be a strong addition to their brotherhood. If you do not receive a bid from your desired fraternity, there are many other chapters for you to explore. By the end of formal recruitment, you will find that there are a variety of chapters that will fit your interests.

Question 4

How does housing in a chapter house work?

Accepted Answer

Each chapter manages their own housing situation, but the vast majority of fraternities guarantee housing for the most recent new member class. Living in the house is usually optional and two chapters do not have houses. More information can be found under the “Housing Information” tab or by asking the members during formal recruitment.

Question 5

My parents/guardians don’t want me to join a fraternity - now what?

Accepted Answer

Greek life at Cornell has a long history of bringing the best out of an individual. Many of Cornell’s most prominent alumni were members of Greek organizations while they were on campus. With over 30 chapters on our campus, there is a fraternity that fits every degree, passion, and person. Returning for formal recruitment is a great opportunity to learn more about Greek life at Cornell. After learning more about fraternity life at Cornell, we encourage all potential new members to have an informed conversation with their parents/guardians about why they want to join a fraternity.

Question 6

Joining a fraternity sounds great! What do I do next?

Accepted Answer

We are excited to have you join! Freshmen are permitted to join in their Spring semester. Spring recruitment occurs in January, and Fall recruitment occurs from late August into September. Like the Cornell IFC Instagram to stay up-to-date with all of our events! Have specific questions that you'd like answered about recruitment? Contact our IFC VP Recruitment, recruitment@cornellifc.org.

Question 7

Greek life seems expensive. How do I pay for it?

Accepted Answer

Our motto, “Fraternity for everyone,” includes ensuring that all those interested in joining our community have access to the resources to do so. Cornell IFC sponsors numerous scholarships for our members and many chapters also sponsor individual awards and scholarships to ensure that anyone interested can join. If you have more questions about the financial aspects of fraternity life, please reach out to IFC's VP for Finance at finance@cornellifc.org.

Question 8

I’m hungry! Where do I eat?

Accepted Answer

Many of our chapters have private chefs that will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The cost of this is typically included in room and board. Each house has its own meal plan, so inquire with individual chapters.

Most new fraternity and sorority associate members are permitted to change to one of Cornell Dining’s declining dollar debit meal plans, including the SFL supplemental plan. Downgrade deadlines can be found at SCL Cornell Dining. No meal plan cancellations are permitted. To discuss your options or ask questions about your meal plan, you can stop by 206 RPCC, email dining@cornell.edu, or call 607-255- 8581. Please be sure to get in touch well ahead of the posted deadline.

Question 9

What if I’m hungry but have allergies?

Accepted Answer

Chapters are accommodating to any dietary needs. Let your chapter steward know of any allergies or religious needs upon joining and they will be sure to help you.

Question 10

I’ve heard rumors that joining a fraternity involves hazing- is that true?

Accepted Answer

Cornell IFC's New Member Education model is an extremely progressive, enriching, and memorable 4-week process that enables new members to become acquainted with their chapter, its traditions, and brothers. Cornell IFC has a strict no hazing policy. Exact guidelines can be found here.

Question 11

What should I wear to open houses?

Accepted Answer

Dress comfortably and be yourself! There is no formal dress code for recruitment. These are first impressions so it is recommended to dress presentably, but you will be walking from chapter to chapter in January, so make sure to dress warmly!

Question 12

I have another question not listed here!

Accepted Answer

Didn't see your question listed? Reach out to our VP of Recruitment, recruitment@cornellifc.org at any time.

Frequently asked questions