Phi Beta Kappa

Membership for Phi Beta Kappa is invitation-only. Each spring, Rutgers nominates juniors and seniors who have fulfilled all of the minimum requirements listed below. There are no applications.

• Juniors must have a cumulative GPA of 3.80 or above and have completed 36 credits at Rutgers by the end of the fall semester.
• Seniors must have a cumulative GPA of 3.70 or above and have completed 48 credits at Rutgers by the end of the fall semester.
• Students must have demonstrated proficiency in a world language equivalent to completion of at least the second semester of the intermediate level. The language proficiency may be met by placing above the intermediate level on the world language placement test.
• Students must be pursuing a liberal arts major and have a minimum of 90-course credits in the liberal arts.
• Students must have successfully completed one course in college-level mathematics, logic, or statistics.
• Students must have no record of disciplinary action.

As the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts honor society in the United States, The Phi Beta Kappa Society was established in 1776 at the College of William and Mary. At the heart of its mission, Phi Beta Kappa celebrates and advocates for the advancement of studies in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences in education and society at large. To become a member of Phi Beta Kappa is a distinct honor that follows students for the rest of their lives.

The Alpha chapter in the State of New Jersey was established at Rutgers University in 1869. For the past 150 years, Rutgers has nominated the most outstanding juniors and seniors across the university to join its chapter. Upon induction into the society, students become lifetime members of Phi Beta Kappa and gain access to scholarships, awards, and programs beyond what is available on campus. Students also join a diverse network of achievers and trailblazers in all walks of life. Notable members include 17 U.S. Presidents, 41 Supreme Court Justices, more than 140 Nobel Laureates, and Rutgers’ very own Paul Robeson.