NHS FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

 
 
What is the National Honor Society (NHS)?
 
Established in 1921, the National Honor Society is the oldest and most respected student recognition organization in the United States. Membership in NHS distinguishes students who have committed themselves to the pursuit of academic excellence, community and involvement, and personal development. NHS is more than an honor role. Academic achievement is a core component of NHS, but the organization also places a strong emphasis on service, leadership and character and helps students build the skills and relationships that will ensure success throughout their academic years and beyond (NHS, 2015).
 
Why should I consider joining NHS?
 
There are many good reasons to apply for membership into NHS. NHS members have the ability to work with peers, faculty, administrators, and community leaders to transform their school and local communities. Members also learn how to be more effective leaders and why leadership skills are an essential tool at any stage in life (NHS, 2015). Moreover, members have opportunities to participate in service to the school and to the community and also serve as representatives of the school at orientation, parent-teacher conferences, mini-class nights, and other special events.
 
What are NOT good reasons for joining NHS?
 
Membership in NHS will help you build a portfolio of life achievements that can be featured on applications for colleges and careers, as well as cover letters and resumes. However, the student who simply wants to join so he can put NHS on his resume does not belong in NHS. Membership in NHS requires a serious commitment to service, academic excellence, and leadership. Students who are not up to this challenge need not apply.
 
What are the basic eligibility requirements for NHS?
 
In order to be eligible for membership, a student must have a 3.50 or higher cumulative GPA. Students also cannot have suspensions or academic integrity violations (from sophomore or junior years) on their disciplinary records. Please note: Simply because a student meets these basic eligibility requirements does not guarantee him membership in NHS.
 
How does the selection process work?
 

Eligible juniors submit a portfolio shortly after the start of the second semester. All portfolios, as well as applicants' conduct records, academic transcripts, and faculty feedback, are reviewed by the school's Faculty Council, a 5-member board appointed by the Principal that oversees NHS membership selection. When selecting students for membership, the Faculty Council looks for students who demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the four core NHS values--Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service.

 
How much service/cocurricular experience do I need to be accepted?
 
The Faculty Council tries to look at a student’s whole picture when considering applications, so there are no "magic numbers" that will guarantee acceptance. The Faculty Council looks for an ongoing commitment to service and school activities on the part of students who demonstrate strong character and high academic performance. A student who has not completed any service or been involved in activities during his freshman or sophomore years will probably not be a good candidate for NHS.
 
Is there a limit on how many students can be accepted?
 
No. All students deemed qualified by the Faculty Council will be offered membership in NHS. To give some perspective, in 2022, 55 students applied for NHS; 36 were offered membership.
 
What do I need to do to apply?
 
Potential members must complete a portfolio that provides students an opportunity to showcase their character, school involvement, service work, and out-of-school activities (such as jobs, hobbies, membership in organizations, etc.). Specific instructions are provided to eligible applicants during the second semester of junior year. Because the portfolio requires a good deal of thought and creativity, it is important that students give this process careful attention.
 
When are applications due?
 
Eligible juniors are invited to apply toward the beginning of the second semester. Portfolios are usually due toward the end of February / beginning of March. The specific date is included on the instructions handout and is also available on the school's NHS website.
 
When will I be notified of a decision?
 
The chapter adviser will notify applicants via email of a decision before Easter break. 
 
If I'm not accepted, can I appeal the decision?
 
Yes. Students who are not offered membership by the Faculty Council have the right to appeal this decision. Normally, appeals are only heard if the student has extenuating circumstances that were not apparent within the format of the portfolio. Simply disagreeing with the Council's decision or failing to include relevant information is not a reason to appeal. If a student decides to appeal the decision, the student will submit a reflection regarding his review and will meet with the Appeals Committee, whose decision will be final.
 
If I am accepted, what is the level of commitment that will be expected of me?
 
NHS members are expected to maintain a 3.5 or higher cumulative GPA and be involved in at least one other school-sponsored activities (cocurriculars or athletics). Members must demonstrate good conduct, be positive role models for the school community, and attend monthly NHS meetings.  Moreover, NHS members tutor their peers; work at major school events, such as orientation, Open House, mini-class night, parent-teacher conferences, and the Grand Reunion; and participate in chapter-sponsored service activities. The complete list of expectations can be found in the Chapter Handbook.
 
Is there a membership fee?
 
Yes. Students who are accepted into NHS must pay a membership fee by the date of the Induction Ceremony, which funds chapter activities for the year. Students also contribute to the cost of the membership pin and graduation stole that each NHS member receives.  The total student contribution is $35.