How do you get into National Honors Society?

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 a timeline when students who meet this benchmark will be invited to submit information about themselves to be considered for membership.

Eligibility Requirements

Students in grades 11–­­12 who meet the requirements for membership outlined by their school’s chapter are eligible to be invited for membership. Students apply during the spring semester of their Sophomore year.

Each chapter is required to publish its qualifications for membership, which is based on the four pillars of NHS:

Scholarship

• Per national guidelines, at a minimum, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent standard of excellence. (Each school chapter is allowed to require a higher cumulative GPA.)

Service

• This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation. 15 hours of community service are required at PHS.

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.

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.

Students who meet the scholarship requirement will have an opportunity to complete a form detailing their accomplishments in and commitment to service, leadership, and character.

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 will be chapter meetings. The chapter bylaws should articulate the yearly meeting schedule and member attendance obligations. Members also must participate in chapter and individual service projects to benefit the school and community. Contact the chapter adviser to obtain a full list of the obligations of membership for the school’s chapter.