Membership

Recognized student organizations at Emory provide a platform for students to pursue their interests and passions, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience. Membership in any student organization should be open and welcoming to all Emory University students. 

Who is considered a member?

Members are currently enrolled students who actively participate in meetings and events.

Who is not considered a member?

Faculty members, staff members, alums, postdocs, coaches, and non-Emory University community members (including significant others and children) do not qualify as members. Individuals who only engage through a listserv are also not considered organization members.

Student organizations must establish recruitment and membership procedures that promote inclusive and accessible participation in the organization's activities. However, certain student organizations may have specific skill-based membership requirements and be exempted from the general open policy. Exceptions are permitted for: 

  • Performing arts organizations  
  • Club Sports organizations  
  • Honor Societies 

Acceptable Membership Criteria

  • Attendance at meetings 
  • Completion of a training/orientation 
  • Planning an event 
  • Graduate student/undergraduate student status  
  • School designation 
  • Payment of dues 
  • GPA 

Prohibited Membership Criteria

  • Membership tiers  
  • Applications  
  • Resumes 
  • Transcripts 
  • Interview
  • Discrimination  

Selection Process Requirements

Undergraduate student organizations are not required to conduct a membership selection process. 

Those who choose to have a selection process must adhere to the following:

  1. Submit a detailed step-by-step description of the process, including relevant dates.
  2. Provide the NetID of each student participating in the process and specifically indicate those invited for membership. 
  3. The selection process must be conducted after Fall Break of the fall semester for undergraduate Recognized Student Organizations only excluding Club Sports Council and Greek-lettered organizations affiliated through the Office of Sorority and Fraternity Life. This allows students to explore various organizations and attend general body meetings without obligation during the first six weeks of the semester.

Event and Meeting Frequency

Regular General Body Meetings are a mandatory requirement for all recognized student organizations, with a minimum frequency of once a month.