IFC Council

Interfraternity Council (IFC) Recruitment Information

The Interfraternity Council is the governing body for our 25+ fraternities.

For recruitment information, please sign up here.

Primary Recruitment Method: Recruitment – First week of classes in both the Fall and Spring semesters. (Fall Recruitment is 8/23 to 8/30)

Contact Information:
Vice President of Recruitment: ifc.recruitment@calgreeks.com
President of IFC: ifc.president@calgreeks.com
IFC Advisor

IFC Recruitment FAQs

What is the process of joining a fraternity?

There are two main ways that students can join a fraternity. The first is through a process commonly referred to as recruitment. During the official week of recruitment most Interfraternity Council chapters hold a variety of recruitment events that are designed to showcase their chapters and give you a chance to get acquainted with their members. Similar to how you researched, visited, and chose to attend the University of California, you should also seek out an organization that best fits your values, personality and interests. This is a mutual selection process and we encourage you to keep an open mind. Explore as many chapters as possible in order to make the best decision for you. Evaluate each organization on merit and don’t be afraid to ask questions! The second way to join is through “year-round recruitment.” While many men participate in formal recruitment week, others choose to participate in this more informal process. Not every organizations participates in year-round recruitment so be sure to ask the chapter directly.

Why should I join a fraternity?

Fraternity membership offers a variety of experiences that enrich your overall collegiate experience and can also enhance your University of California co-curricular resume. No other academic program, activity, or campus office can over you the complete package of:

– A home-away-from-home

– A supportive community of caring brothers

– A values-based organization that emphasizes moral and ethical self-development

– History and traditions

– Opportunities to build leadership skills

– Academic support and resources

– Opportunities for volunteerism and civic engagement

– Intramural participation

– Being recognized for contributions and success

– Career networking with alumni from across the world

– Opportunities to participate at national conventions and leadership conferences

– Opportunities to participate in a variety of social functions.

What does it cost to join a fraternity?

The fraternal experience should be looked at as an investment in your future. Each fraternity has different dues requirements, but in most cases it costs less to live in a fraternity house and pay dues than living on campus. Membership dues are collected to provide funds for chapter activities, programs, insurance and other services that will positively impact you. In fact, less than 1 percent of an average college student’s expenses go toward fraternity membership. In the first year of membership, a few onetime initiation fees are assessed. After that, regular semester dues generally average about $200-$400, depending on the chapter. Most organizations offer a variety of payment plans and billing options and will supplement their income with fundraising projects. Additionally, national fraternity headquarters offer millions of dollars in scholarships and educational grants to deserving candidates each year.

How will joining impact my time?

The time commitment varies based on the organization and length of new member period. Most groups formal membership process is 6-10 weeks long. Some groups require that members apply for membership and demonstrate interest a semester or two before the process.

Most membership processes help new members balance time with the organization and other commitments. Many students equate the time commitment to another 3-unit course with weekly new member meetings, readings on organization history and ritual and external events. Academics are always a priority. If you ever feel your academic responsibilities are being compromised you should reach out to your new member educator/dean/intake coordinator with concerns or a staff member of the Fraternity and Sorority Advising team.

I’m thinking about joining a chapter (versus a colony), is there a difference?

A colony typically refers to an organization that is new to the campus and are looking for “Founding Fathers” of their organization, which is just a term for members before the colony becomes a fully recognized chapter. One of the largest benefits to joining a colony is the opportunity for leadership positions at an earlier stage of membership. The colony is also striving to meet the requirements of their inter/national organization, start traditions, and mold its identity on campus.