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Honor Societies

Honor Societies recognize excellence in the liberal arts and sciences. Participation in an honor society is widely recognized by employers and graduate programs as a special distinction. Although honor societies differ, benefits common to most include: career assistance, scholarship opportunities, cultural opportunities, community service projects, and continued pursuit of intellectual interests.

So, you have been invited to join an honor society. Many students feel it is important for them to affiliate with one or more national honor societies. The Office of Student Affairs has created a list of frequently asked questions to assist you in determining if joining an honor society is right for you. Below we have listed a variety of honor societies that accept students from a broad range of disciplines – you should inquire with your college and department for those societies specific to your academic interests.  The decision to become a member is an individual one and the University of Minnesota does not officially endorse or evaluate any of the honor societies below. 

Golden Key

Eligibility is for juniors and seniors in the top 15% of their class.

Mortar Board

Eligibility is based on a minimum 3.3 GPA and 90 credits completed by June of the application year.

National Society of Collegiate Scholars

Eligibility is for first or second year students with a minimum GPA of 3.4.

Omicron Delta Kappa

Eligibility is for juniors and seniors in the upper 35% of their class.

Phi Beta Kappa

Eligibility is for seniors with a GPA of 3.50 or juniors with a GPA of 3.75 who have completed liberal education requirements, including a second language requirement.

Phi Kappa

Eligibility is based on an upper 10% class rank for seniors and upper 5% class rank for juniors.