How do I become a member of the National Junior Honor Society?

Students are selected for membership through local school chapters. Seventh and 8th-grade students who have been enrolled at the school for the equivalent of one semester and meet their chapter’s minimum grade requirement (Scholarship) are eligible for membership.

Candidates are then considered for membership based on meeting their chapter’s service, leadership, citizenship, and character requirements. Membership decisions are made by the chapter’s faculty council, and a majority vote of the council is required for selection.

What does it mean to be a member of the National Junior Honor Society?

The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) elevates a school's commitment to scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. It helps middle-level students develop the knowledge and skills to become well-rounded student leaders in their school, community, and beyond.

Will I be notified if I’m not selected for NJHS membership?

Selected and non-selected candidates are notified by their local chapter.

Can I join NJHS via the national office/website?

Membership selection takes place only through school-based NJHS chapters. NJHS members cannot join through the national office or our website.

How can I find out about my local chapter’s selection procedure?

All chapters are required to publish a description of their selection procedure in an official school publication that is widely available to students and parents.

This requirement is outlined in article IX of the NJHS Constitution. Publication locations include school websites or student handbooks. If you are not able to find information about your chapter in these locations, contact your school’s NJHS adviser or school principal.

If I’m not selected for NJHS membership, can I appeal the decision?

There is no appeals process for non-selection.  Students who are not selected during their 7th-grade year may reapply again as an 8th-grader if they qualify.

If I transfer schools, does my NJHS membership transfer with me?

Yes. Your NJHS adviser or principal should provide a letter of verification to your new chapter. Membership transfers automatically between NJHS chapters. Members must meet the new chapter’s standards within one semester to retain membership (see Article VIII of the NJHS Constitution).

How many service hours do you need to apply for  NJHS?

Twenty service hours is the recommended minimum.

Community service hours logged for the NJHS may not be used for any other organization. You must meet the deadlines for completion of the required service hours.