Phi Beta Kappa

Academic excellence fraternity

Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States, founded in 1776.

Membership is offered to undergraduates with exceptional grades, typically in the liberal arts and sciences.

The name comes from Greek initials meaning "love of learning is the guide of life." Being elected to Phi Beta Kappa signals high academic achievement: She graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Yale.

golden keyPrecious metal unlocker
humanitiesStudy of culture
social sciencesAcademic study of society
initiation ceremoniesRituals admitting newcomers formally
chapter meetingsScheduled gatherings of local branches

critical thinking · philosophy · natural sciences · literature · academic integrity · academic publications · history · commencement ceremonies · alumni networks · student organizations · intellectual curiosity · Ivy League · William and Mary · academic regalia · mentorship programs · founding documents · mathematics · honorary degrees

Opposites

academic achievement/prestige

Phi Beta Kappaacademic probation

Conditional student standing for underperformance

dropout · underachiever · remedial student · slacker · dunce

type of collegiate distinction

Phi Beta Kappavarsity letter

Emblem for school athletes

athletic scholarship · letterman · jock · Greek life · MVP

social orientation of Greek organizations

Phi Beta KappaGreek life

Fraternity and sorority culture

frat house · rush week · pledge

Family

phi, beta, kappa

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Mostly American · Timeless · Positive · Rated G