Fraternities are a significant part of American college life, providing students with a sense of community, networking opportunities, and leadership skills. But with so many different fraternities out there, it can be tough to know which one is right for you?
To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular fraternities in the United States, based on the size and prominence of their chapters.
Table 1: The 10 Most Popular Fraternities in the United States
| Rank | Fraternity | Number of Chapters | Number of Members |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE) | 237 | 15,000 |
| 2 | Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) | 288 | 14,000 |
| 3 | Phi Delta Theta (PDT) | 186 | 13,000 |
| 4 | Sigma Chi | 246 | 12,000 |
| 5 | Phi Kappa Tau | 198 | 11,000 |
| 6 | Alpha Tau Omega (ATO) | 178 | 10,000 |
| 7 | Delta Tau Delta (DTD) | 165 | 9,000 |
| 8 | Kappa Alpha Order (KA) | 156 | 8,000 |
| 9 | Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE) | 138 | 7,000 |
| 10 | Sigma Phi Epsilon (SPE) | 135 | 6,000 |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fraternity
- Size and Prestige: Larger fraternities tend to have more resources, a more extensive alumni network, and a higher profile on campus. However, smaller fraternities may offer a more intimate and close-knit experience.
- Values and Mission: Each fraternity has its values and mission. Consider which fraternity’s values align most closely with your own.
- Social Activities: Fraternities host various social events. Consider which fraternity’s social calendar most appeals to you.
- Academic Support: Some fraternities offer academic support services to their members. If you’re looking for a fraternity that can help you succeed academically, consider one that offers tutoring, study groups, or other academic resources.
- Cost: Fraternity dues can vary significantly from one chapter to another. Be sure to factor in the cost of dues when making your decision.
Tips for Joining a Fraternity
- Attend rush events: Most fraternities host rush events at the beginning of each semester, giving potential members an opportunity to meet the brothers and learn more about the fraternity’s culture.
- Get to know the brothers: The best way to get a sense of a fraternity’s culture is to spend time with the brothers. Attend social events, sports games, or other activities hosted by the fraternity.
- Apply for membership: Once you’ve found a fraternity that you’re interested in, you’ll need to apply for membership. The application process typically involves submitting an application form, paying a fee, and attending a series of interviews, rush events, or both.
- Be yourself: The most important thing when joining a fraternity is to be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not, because you won’t be happy in the long run.
Pros and Cons of Joining a Fraternity
Pros:
- Sense of community: Fraternities provide a strong sense of community, providing members with a sense of belonging and support.
- Networking opportunities: Fraternities offer excellent networking opportunities, both within the chapter and through the fraternity’s alumni network.
- Leadership skills: Fraternities provide members with opportunities to develop leadership skills through various leadership roles within the chapter.
- Social activities: Fraternities host various social events throughout the year, giving members a chance to socialize with other members and make new friends.
- Academic support: Some fraternities offer academic support services to their members, such as tutoring, study groups, and access to academic resources.
Cons:
- Cost: Fraternity dues can be expensive, especially at larger and more prestigious fraternities.
- Time commitment: Being a member of a fraternity can require a significant time commitment, especially during rush week and other busy times of the year.
- Hazing: Hazing is a serious problem in some fraternities. Before joining a fraternity, be sure to research the fraternity’s hazing policy and talk to current members about their experiences.
- Alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse is a common problem in fraternities. Before joining a fraternity, be sure to consider your own drinking habits and whether you’re comfortable with the fraternity’s drinking culture.
- Negative stereotypes: Fraternities often have negative stereotypes associated with them, such as being elitist, sexist, and racist. These stereotypes can make it difficult for some people to feel comfortable joining a fraternity.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the oldest fraternity in the United States?
The oldest fraternity in the United States is Phi Beta Kappa, which was founded in 1776.
2. What is the largest fraternity in the United States?
The largest fraternity in the United States is Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), with over 15,000 members.
3. What is the most prestigious fraternity in the United States?
The most prestigious fraternity in the United States is Phi Beta Kappa, which is an academic honor society.
4. What is the most exclusive fraternity in the United States?
The most exclusive fraternity in the United States is Skull and Bones, a secret society at Yale University.
5. What is the most diverse fraternity in the United States?
The most diverse fraternity in the United States is Alpha Phi Alpha, the oldest African American fraternity.
6. What is the most affordable fraternity in the United States?
The most affordable fraternity in the United States is Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, a music fraternity.
Table 2: The Oldest Fraternities in the United States
| Rank | Fraternity | Founded |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phi Beta Kappa | 1776 |
| 2 | Phi Kappa Sigma | 1850 |
| 3 | Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia | 1898 |
| 4 | Sigma Alpha Iota | 1903 |
| 5 | Kappa Kappa Psi | 1919 |
Table 3: The Most Prestigious Fraternities in the United States
| Rank | Fraternity | Founded |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Phi Beta Kappa | 1776 |
| 2 | Phi Kappa Phi | 1897 |
| 3 | Sigma Xi | 1886 |
| 4 | Tau Beta Pi | 1885 |
| 5 | Eta Kappa Nu | 1904 |
Table 4: The Most Diverse Fraternities in the United States
| Rank | Fraternity | Founded |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alpha Phi Alpha | 1906 |
| 2 | Kappa Alpha Psi | 1911 |
| 3 | Phi Iota Alpha | 1906 |
| 4 | Omega Psi Phi | 1911 |
| 5 | Zeta Phi Beta | 1920 |