How does getting a sorority bid work?

Getting a sorority bid involves a multi-round "rush" process where potential new members (PNMs) meet chapters, and chapters evaluate PNMs, culminating in an invitation (the bid) to join a specific sorority, usually after ranking preferences, followed by a new member period (pledging) before full initiation. It's a mutual selection: you show interest in chapters, and they offer bids to those they want to join, using algorithms to match PNM lists with chapter lists for the final bid day.

How does the sorority bid process work?

Think of it as a golden ticket—your official welcome into sisterhood. You'll typically receive a bid at the end of Primary Recruitment Week, after multiple rounds of events and mutual selection between PNMs (Potential New Members) and chapters. ✅ Quick definition: A sorority bid = an offer to join.

How do sororities decide who to give a bid to?

The voting process for the sororities can vary depending on the campus and the sorority. Two main methods usually take place: Chapter Vote: A chapter vote is when everyone in the sorority has a say in potential new members. Your name will come up, and everyone will vote on whether or not to invite you back.

Does everyone get a bid at Rush?

No. Not everyone will receive a bid from a sorority. It is a possibility to receive no call backs on any given Day of Rush or make it through Pref round and get dropped at the last minute.

How does getting a bid work?

Receiving a bid is a formal invitation to join a fraternity. Bids may be extended to a potential new member after the fraternity has gotten to know him. Potential new members should not feel pressured or obligated to accept a bid. There is no time frame in which a bid will be given to an individual.

EXPLAINING SORORITY RECRUITMENT/RUSH

How much is a sorority bid?

So, How Much Does a Sorority or Fraternity Cost? For new members, costs can range from $1,000 to $4,200.

Can I not pay after winning a bid?

No, you generally cannot just not pay after winning a bid, as it's considered a legally binding contract, and backing out can lead to penalties like losing deposits, fees, strikes on your account (on platforms like eBay), or even legal action from the seller to recover costs, although many online platforms prefer just removing the buyer and relisting. Consequences vary by auction type (online vs. traditional), but always check the terms; it's best to contact the seller or platform immediately if you have issues. 

Do sororities pick based on looks?

Yes, looks can play a role in sorority recruitment, but it's usually alongside other factors like personality, grades, and connections, with some chapters focusing more on traditional aesthetics (sometimes called the ""look"") while others, often newer ones or those under national pressure, aim for more diversity, though unfair biases, including appearance-based ones, still exist. While official recruitment emphasizes values, character, and good conversations, some individual members or chapters still prioritize outward appearance, leading to pressure on potential new members (PNMs) to fit a certain mold, with some even using coded language for physical traits. 

What are the 5 B's to avoid during rush?

During sorority rush, avoid the "5 Bs": Boys, Booze, Beliefs (politics/religion), and Bucks (money), as these can be divisive or overly personal, focusing instead on shared interests, values, and positive experiences to build genuine connections. The common "B" topics are Boys, Booze, Beliefs (or Bible), Bucks, and sometimes Ballots (politics) or even a specific person (like "Bush").
 

Do some girls not get bids?

It is rare for girls to get completely dropped from recruitment, but it does happen. The best way to guarantee a bid is to maximize her options which means attending all the chapters everyday of recruitment and going into it with an open mind.

What not to say during sorority recruitment?

During sorority recruitment, avoid the "4 or 5 B's" (boys/dating, booze/drugs, bucks/money, beliefs/religion, ballots/politics) and trash-talking other chapters or Greek life, as these topics create awkwardness, distractions, or negative impressions; instead, focus on your values, academic interests, passions, and genuine connection to sisterhood to find a good fit. 

What is the most elite sorority?

Prestigious sororities often include Kappa Kappa Gamma, Alpha Phi, Delta Gamma, Chi Omega, Delta Delta Delta, Alpha Delta Pi, Kappa Alpha Theta, and Alpha Chi Omega, known for strong national presence, high recruitment, and notable alumnae, though "prestige" varies by campus and individual values, with groups like Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) and Delta Sigma Theta (DST) holding immense historical significance and community impact. 

Are you guaranteed a bid after pref?

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER PREF? parties that you went to, you are not guaranteed a bid. This is called 'suicide bidding' or a 'single prefrence vote'.

How long after bid day is initiation?

You officially become a member of your sorority once you are initiated. The time between Bid Day and Initiation varies by chapter but typically ranges from six to eight weeks in length.

Is a bid considered an offer?

A bid is an offer to perform a contract for work, labor, or supplying materials at a specified price.

Can you reject a sorority bid?

After the event, if the sorority thinks you are a good fit, the sorority will give you a bid. You decide if you want to accept the bid or not.

How to stand out to a sorority?

Standing out during rush isn't about being the loudest person in the room or wearing the most eye-catching outfit. It's about being yourself and showing a real interest in each chapter. Sororities are looking for members who will add something special to their sisterhood.

What colors to wear for rush?

Bright colors, feminine prints, and staple neutrals are always a yes. Add accessories, comfy (but cute) shoes, and you're good to go!

How do sororities score you?

The scoring is based on your conversations. To get a good score, you have to make connections. After a sorority meets all the potential new members for a round, they score each potential new member and send over lists to Panhellenic.

Is it true that people see you 20% attractive?

It's a popular idea, supported by some studies, that people often see you as more attractive (around 20% more) than you see yourself because you focus on your flaws, while others see the complete, more appealing picture including your personality, intelligence, and confidence. However, research also suggests that while most people underestimate their own attractiveness, truly attractive people might actually underrate themselves more, with less attractive people inflating their self-perception.
 

Do sororities check social media?

While you may think social media is something only your close friends will be looking at, what you post lives on the internet for everyone to find. Sororities, and even future employers, can see what you post, so you want to make sure that what you are posting is 100% appropriate.

What do sororities ask in interviews?

General Questions

Some examples might include “Where are you from?” or “Why did you decide to go through sorority recruitment?” They might also ask about your semester, your chosen major, etc. Don't get stressed over making yourself look perfect with your answers!

What happens if you win a bid but don't want it?

Try taking the item back.

Auction houses are typically willing to repurchase items from bidders now facing buyer's remorse. Just be prepared to receive an offer below your winning bid.

How long after winning a bid do I have to pay?

Successful bids

If you are the successful bidder, you must sign the sale contract and pay a deposit on the spot. The deposit is usually 10 per cent of the purchase price. There is no cooling-off period when you buy at auction.

Do you keep your money if you lose a bid?

If you do not win the auction, the bank will refund your transaction. If you don't receive the refund from your bank, please contact them. Typically it happens relatively quickly (two days) but depending on your bank it may take as many as 45 days in some cases.