The Fraternity Experience
Fast Facts About Cornell IFC
The Cornell Interfraternity Council (IFC) represents a diverse community of leaders, scholars, and brothers dedicated to personal growth and collective impact. Life in a fraternity offers a unique blend of heritage and opportunity, providing a structured environment for students to excel academically and socially.
Diversity & Inclusion
Representation from every undergraduate college at Cornell, fostering an inclusive network of perspectives.
Leadership & Scale
Home to over 35 self-governing chapters, making IFC the largest student organization on campus.
History & Brotherhood
- Cornell’s first fraternity was established in 1868, reflecting deep roots in campus life.
- With over 60 years of collective chapter history, our traditions are built on resilience and excellence.
- A lifelong alumni network of over 30,000+ members provides mentorship and connection long after graduation.
Diversity & Inclusion
- Our members represent all 50 U.S. states and 40+ countries, bringing a global perspective to Ithaca.
- Over 30% of our fraternity members identify as students of color, fostering a multicultural environment.
- IFC chapters offer religious, cultural, and identity-based focus groups to support a sense of belonging for all.
Health, Wellness, Safety & Leadership
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Each chapter appoints a dedicated Health and Wellness Chair, ensuring that every member has access to mental health resources, support systems, and a well-being-focused community environment.
IFC LEADERSHIP
With 10 executive board positions and over 30 chapter presidents, the IFC offers unparalleled opportunities for self-governance, ethical leadership training, and professional management of a diverse community.
SAFETY & HAZING PREVENTION
The Cornell IFC maintains a zero-tolerance policy for hazing. Mandatory educational programming and strict social policies are in place for all chapters to ensure the safety and dignity of every prospective and initiated member.
CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT
Fraternity members consistently lead beyond their houses. IFC students hold over 50% of executive roles in other student organizations, varsity sports, and academic societies across the Cornell campus.
Academics & Scholarship
Leading the University in Scholastic Excellence
- 3.55 Average GPA: IFC Greeks consistently outperform the Cornell all-men's GPA average (3.48).
- Faculty Mentorship: Each chapter maintains a Faculty Advisor to bridge the gap between Greek life and academic rigor.
- Support Networks: Chapter-led tutoring centers and peer-to-peer scholarship committees ensure sustainable success.
- Awards & Incentives: Annual recognition for chapters and individuals showcasing the highest semester-over-semester growth.
Ranking Stats
Consistent Top-Tier Performance
Cornell IFC chapters consistently rank within the top 10% of their respective national organizations for academic achievement and research contributions.
Infrastructure
House Study Resources
Access to dedicated 24/7 quiet study libraries, private conference rooms, and high-speed campus network integration in 100% of IFC chapter facilities.
Philanthropy & Service
$350K+
21,000+
Annual Donations
Service Hours
The Cornell IFC community is deeply committed to selfless service. Our chapters host numerous signature philanthropy events throughout the academic year, raising significant funds for both local Ithaca non-profits and national charitable organizations.
Housing & Affordability
Fraternity housing is often more affordable than University dorms or Collegetown apartments. Dues typically cover utilities and a full meal plan, and Cornell financial aid packages often apply to these living expenses.
Campus Involvement
IFC members represent every undergraduate college and are involved in over 500 student organizations. One in three fraternity men holds a leadership position in varsity athletics, research projects, or student government.
Wellness & Success
Our community prioritizes health and safety through mandatory risk management training. Beyond safety, members benefit from a global network of alumni mentors, consistently maintaining a GPA higher than the campus average.