Frequently Asked Questions

Every organization has its own traditions, expectations, and membership experience. Before joining, ask questions about academics, financial obligations, time commitments, events, housing, leadership opportunities, and member expectations so you can make an informed decision.

Start by exploring organizations on Mane Connection, where you can learn more about individual organizations, upcoming events, and opportunities to connect. You can also attend events and meet members before deciding whether an organization is right for you.

No. Take time to learn about your options, attend events, ask questions, and consider what you are looking for in an organization before making a commitment.

Joining a fraternity or sorority is the beginning of your membership experience. After joining, new members typically participate in an organization-specific education or onboarding process where they learn more about the organization’s history, values, traditions, expectations, and membership responsibilities. This process may also include opportunities to build relationships with other members, participate in chapter activities, and learn how to become an active member of the organization.

Once you complete the organization’s new-member process and become an initiated member, you can take advantage of the many opportunities that come with membership, including leadership roles, service and philanthropy, social events, educational programs, and other chapter and campus activities. Your level of involvement is shaped by the organization and your own interests, goals, and availability.

Membership requirements vary by organization and council. Students should review the requirements for the specific organization they are interested in and make sure they understand any academic, enrollment, or other eligibility requirements before pursuing membership.

Fraternity and sorority membership comes with financial obligations that vary by organization. Costs may include national or international dues, chapter dues, new-member or initiation fees, and other chapter expenses. Ask each organization for a current breakdown of costs before joining so you understand the financial commitment.

The time commitment varies by organization and can change depending on whether you are a new member or hold a leadership position. Members may participate in chapter meetings, events, service and philanthropy, leadership development, and other activities throughout each semester.

Your academic success remains an important part of your Lindenwood experience. Fraternity and sorority organizations may offer academic resources, study opportunities, mentoring, and other forms of support, but students are ultimately responsible for managing their academic commitments alongside their involvement.

Some Lindenwood fraternities and sororities have designated residential spaces on campus. Housing availability, eligibility, and expectations vary by organization and residence hall.

Absolutely. Fraternity and sorority membership does not prevent you from participating in other Lindenwood organizations, programs, athletics, leadership opportunities, or campus activities. Students are encouraged to build an experience that reflects their interests and goals.

Yes. Many students balance fraternity or sorority membership with employment, academics, and other campus commitments. Your work schedule and responsibilities may affect which events or activities you can attend, so talk with the organization you’re considering about its expectations and time commitments before joining.

No. Lindenwood has a zero-tolerance policy for hazing. Hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on or off campus and whether it happens during recruitment, new-member education, or after initiation. Students should report concerns about hazing or unsafe activities to the Office of Student Involvement.

Students can contact the Office of Student Involvement with questions or concerns about their fraternity or sorority experience. Concerns involving safety, hazing, or other policy violations should be reported promptly.