You excel. You serve. You lead. You succeed. You have a true thirst for challenge … and accomplishment. Membership in National Honor Society (NHS) may be an ideal fit for you! You can become a member through a local selection process that concludes with induction into the school’s National Honor Society chapter.

Through exclusive resources, programs, and services, members have a unique opportunity to prepare for college and career pursuits. Membership truly lays the groundwork for lifelong success.

How Can You Become an NHS Member?

First, you will need to learn if your school has an NHS chapter. If so, check your student handbook or speak with someone in your main office to identify the chapter adviser. This is a faculty member who will be able to tell you the cumulative GPA required for consideration and the timeline for your chapter’s selection process.

Learn more about your chapter’s obligations and national policies by reading the NHS Constitution.

Eligibility Requirements

Students in grades 10–­­12 who have been enrolled at the school for one semester and who have the cumulative GPA set by their chapter are eligible to be considered for membership. These academically eligible students, or candidates, are then evaluated based on the remaining criteria for membership.

Each chapter is required to publish a description of its selection procedure in an official school publication, which is based on the four pillars of NHS:

  • Scholarship
    Per national policies, students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 85, B, 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent standard of excellence, or higher, as determined by their local chapter.  (Each school chapter is allowed to require a cumulative GPA above the national minimum.)
  • Service
    This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation. The local chapter sets the specific requirements for this criterion.
  • Leadership
    Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others. The local chapter sets the specific requirements for this criterion.
  • Character
    The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record. The local chapter sets the specific requirements for this criterion.

Understanding the Obligations of Membership
Students who accept membership and are inducted into the chapter should be aware of the time and commitment involved with this honor. For example, there may be required attendance at chapter meeting and other obligations outlined in the chapter’s bylaws. Members also must participate in chapter and individual service projects. Contact the chapter adviser to learn more about the obligations of membership in your local chapter.