Frequently Asked Questions

What is fraternity recruitment?

Recruitment is a mutual selection process by which members of a fraternity chapter decide which men they would most like to join their fraternity. At the same time, the prospective member is deciding which fraternity most interests him.

What is the Interfraternity Council (IFC)?

The IFC is the self-governing body of all member fraternities at The University of Texas. Its office is located in the Student Services Building (SSB) in the Greek Life & Education area within the Office of the Dean of Students. Each chapter is represented equally in this forum.

Do I have to register for recruitment with the IFC?

YES, if you want to participate in the recruitment process, the earlier you register with the Interfraternity Council the better. In order to expedite the process, we recommend you register online.

In order to expedite the process, we recommend you register online. You may also mail in the registration form found in the back of the Greek Life Recruitment Book that will be mailed to all students that attend summer orientation. If you do not attend orientation during the summer, call our office at 512-471-9700 to request a recruitment book. The deadline for registration is August 26, 2007 at 5pm.

When do official IFC recruiting activities start?

First week of the Fall semester August 29, 2007 at 4pm in the Texas Union.

Do I have to participate in summer recruiting activities?

Although you are not required to participate in summer activities, it may provide an opportunity to get to know the chapter individuals better. There will also be opportunities during summer orientation sessions to meet representatives of chapters. Please come to the Greek Information sessions or the BBQ during orientation. You may even consider staying a day after orientation in order to participate in some local chapter sponsored activities.

How do I decide what chapter to join?

Each person looks for different attributes in a fraternity. Each of our chapters focuses on one or more of the following: athletics, academics, campus involvement, leadership, and/or friendship. The choice is up to you, so look carefully at all of the chapters and evaluate which one best meets your needs and interests. The first week of school will be a designated IFC recruitment period. This period will provide an opportunity to interact with many chapters.

Why is there such a large difference in cost from chapter to chapter?

The costs of fraternity fees vary from chapter to chapter. Chapter fees are used to help maintain the chapter house, pay yearly insurance costs, pay for national fees and services, assist with philanthropy/community service projects, assist with social and recruitment functions, go toward academic scholarships, and pay for alumni functions and newsletters. In addition, some fraternities¹ fees include meal plans. Others offer very affordable housing and parking near campus.

Do I have to join a fraternity in the fall semester?

Although most men join fraternities in the fall, there is a spring recruitment period where many members join chapters. While not all fraternities participate in spring recruitment, numerous chapters do and there will be recruitment events sponsored by the IFC.

Before I join, what do I need to know?

Along with joining a fraternity comes certain responsibilities. Make sure you know all the financial obligations that are required. Furthermore, you should understand all aspects of membership that are required for initiation into the fraternity. If the fraternity does not offer this information, ask.

How can I increase my chances of getting an invitation to join?

  • Register with the IFC as soon as possible to let the fraternities know you are interested.


  • Look at as many chapters as you can, and select the ones on which you would like to concentrate.

  • Be positive. Do not criticize other chapters or potential new members. Get to know other students.


  • Don't necessarily count on joining the same fraternity as your friends, although many students feel more comfortable if they recruit with friends.


  • Be yourself.


What is Greek Life and Education?
The Greek Life and Education area of the Office of the Dean of Students serves as the University liaison to the Interfraternity, Panhellenic, National Pan-Hellenic Council, United Greek Council, Texas Asian Panhellenic Council and the other Greek organizations that are affiliated with our office. As advisors to these groups, the staff is responsible for designing and facilitating leadership development programs, advising the Councils, executive officers and interpreting University policies. Call 471-9700 for more information or visit our Web page at http://www.texasgreeks.com

When is recruitment?
Please refer to the recruitment schedule located on the left side bar. For more specifics regarding recruitment, contact 471-9700 or visit the Greek Life and Education web page http://www.texasgreeks.com.

What are some examples of hazing?
Some examples of hazing are if you and/or members of your new member class are required to do one or more of the following:

  • Calisthenics, such as sit-ups or push-ups

  • Expose total or partial nudity

  • Eat an unwanted substance

  • Wear something obscene

  • Carry something that is too heavy

  • Be pushed, shoved or paddled (or trade swats with a paddle)

  • Consume alcoholic beverages due to threats or peer pressure

  • Allow substances (oil, syrup, flour) to be thrown on or at you

  • Line up and be intimidated, interrogated or demeaned

  • Participate in transportation and abandonment (road trips, kidnaps)

  • Be confined in an area which is uncomfortable or dangerous

  • Act as a servant to someone else
    participate in pranks (theft, harassing other people)

  • Clean up a house or room that has been intentionally messed up to be cleaned

  • Be called demeaning names and/or yelled and screamed at

  • Fight with others for entertainment


How do I report a hazing incident?
The law requires that you contact the Dean of Students Office at 471-9700 or 471-3065. Don't be afraid of losing the opportunity to join a fraternity or sorority if you report any hazing incidents; your health and safety are far more important.