Membership in Beta Theta Pi is based on finding men who believe and live by the same set of fraternal values. These values, the Fraternity's objects (written below), are the basis for recruitment, pledging and a lifelong membership in Beta Theta Pi.

"It shall be constituted as hereinafter provided and shall have for its objects the promotion of the moral and social culture of its members, the establishment of confidence and friendly relations among the universities and colleges of the United States and Canada, in securing unity of action and sympathy in matters of common interest among them, and the building up of a fraternity that recognizes mutual assistance in the honorable labors and aspirations of life, devotion to the cultivation of the intellect, unsullied friendship and unfaltering fidelity, as objects worthy of the highest aim and purpose of associated effort." - The Objects of Beta Theta Pi

Recruitment

Formal recruitment is generally a two to three week process at the beginning of each semester hosted by the university and the San Jose State Interfraternity Council (IFC). Most fraternities will host events and provide the opportunity to meet members and learn about the organization's values. However, you don't necessarily need to participate in formal recruitment to join Beta Theta Pi. Informal recruitment lasts all year and you should seek out Betas on your campus anytime to learn more about the Fraternity. Beta Theta Pi isn't for everyone. The Fraternity seeks to extend membership to a select few individuals who maintain a lifelong devotion to intellectual excellence, high standards of moral conduct and responsible citizenship. By joining Beta Theta Pi, you commit yourself to a high standard that all members are expected to meet.

Pledging

Our chapter pledging program is designed to orient new members to Fraternity's history, traditions and practices while preparing each future brother for a lifetime of fraternal brotherhood. The primary objective of a pledge program is to produce informed, enthused and principled new members ready to step into leadership roles. Beta Theta Pi has no place for a pledge program that creates artificial probation, second-class citizenship or hazing. Our chapter is required by the General Fraternity to submit a written pledge program that is certified annually to be 100% positive. If you like to see our certified pledge program, please contact the chapter president or pledge educator (click here). You may also contact the Beta Theta Pi Foundation and Administrative Office to have a digital copy of our certified program sent to you. Please call (800) 800-BETA.

Initiation

Initiation is a special ceremony where the deepest symbolic meaning of the Fraternity is revealed and the full privileges of membership are extended to new members. While the ceremony has taken different forms, more than 180,000 members have been initiated since 1839. For all members in Beta Theta Pi, it is the beginning of a lifetime of friendship, learning and personal growth.

Lifelong Friendships

Beta Theta Pi is not just a four year experience. It is an lifelong experience that will engender lasting bonds of friendship and brotherhood. From undergraduate leadership opportunities to local alumni associations and General Conventions, the lifelong bonds of Beta brotherhood are inescapable. Learn more about how Betas remain involved after graduation.