Question 1

How do I get in touch with someone at NSCS?

Accepted Answer

Email the NSCS Member Success Team at nscs@nscs.org. We'll get you an answer as quickly as possible!

Question 2

How is NSCS governed?

Accepted Answer

NSCS is governed by a Board of Directors that includes business and education professionals and students from around the country who represent a host of disciplines. The board sets the policy direction for the society and is responsible for overseeing the fiscal and operational efficiency of NSCS. Additional information can be found in our bylaws.

Question 3

How many chapters are there?

Accepted Answer

From the very first chapter at The George Washington University, our honor society has grown across the country to include nearly 300 chapters and over a million and a half lifetime members.

Question 4

What does the Chapter Advisor do?

Accepted Answer

The Chapter Advisor plays a vital role in supporting and guiding the chapter leaders, serving as the chapter's liaison, and advocating to the administration.

Question 5

Is NSCS a legit organization?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. NSCS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1994 on the campus of The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. We are a recognized honor society at nearly 300 campuses across the country, and we are an A+ rated member of the Better Business Bureau. NSCS also belongs to the Association of College Honor Societies, the only accrediting institution for college honor societies.

Question 6

What's the process for becoming a member?

Accepted Answer

If you have at least a 3.4 GPA (or top 20% of your class), have between 12-60 undergraduate credit hours completed, and you're enrolled at an accredited college or university, you are eligible to join The National Society of Collegiate Scholars by invitation or self-nomination.

Question 7

How selective is NSCS membership?

Accepted Answer

NSCS membership is selective. To be eligible, students must have at least a 3.4 GPA (or be in the top 20% of their class), have completed between 12-60 undergraduate credit hours, and be enrolled at an accredited college or university. Students are nominated by their institutions based on their academic achievements, or they can self-nominate if they meet the criteria.

Question 8

Can I join NSCS even if there isn't a chapter at my school?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can become part of the NSCS Global Chapter or may be able to help start a chapter at your school. Interested? Contact our team at nscs@nscs.org.

Question 9

What is the membership fee?

Accepted Answer

The NSCS Classic Membership is $97. There are no additional chapter nor annual dues. The membership fee serves to offer a diverse range of member benefits and services. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, NSCS directs all its income towards the society's growth and operational activities.

Question 10

What is NSCS's policy for cancellations and refunds?

Accepted Answer

We do not grant refunds as membership is a lifetime guarantee. When registering to become a member of NSCS, you accepted the NSCS Lifetime Membership Policy which outlines that when joining the organization you received access to exclusive benefits and personalized acknowledgement via digital certificate and credentials. Due to this policy and the benefits provided upon joining, NSCS does not issue refunds. However, should you want to move forward with a membership termination, you can reach out to our team at nscs@nscs.org.

Question 11

How was I nominated?

Accepted Answer

NSCS works with the appropriate office at each school to identify eligible students to invite to join NSCS. You were nominated because your school identified you as an outstanding scholar meeting the criteria for NSCS membership.

Question 12

Why does NSCS only invite first and second year students to join? Will it still help me after my first two years of school?

Accepted Answer

NSCS believes students who have academic success as they transition into college should be recognized, and elevated throughout their entire collegiate journey. After joining, NSCS members across all academic and post graduate levels are supported by NSCS with benefits that extend beyond graduation.

Question 13

What if my GPA drops below 3.4?

Accepted Answer

NSCS members are nominated based on their academic achievements early in college. Once a member, always a member. If a student's GPA drops during a challenging semester, their membership will not be revoked.

Question 14

What happens when I join?

Accepted Answer

Once you accept your nomination, you will receive a confirmation email, including your digital membership diploma, press release, certified membership credential to enhance your LinkedIn Profile and resume. Members can elect to receive a welcome package in the mail, including their personalized diploma (suitable for framing), member pin, and member sticker.

Question 15

Should I put my NSCS membership on my resume? Is it something people are going to recognize?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Including your NSCS membership on your resume is a fantastic idea. NSCS boasts a far-reaching network of partners spanning universities, corporations, associations, and nonprofits across the nation. Your NSCS membership carries weight and recognition within these circles and extends its influence to many more organizations and institutions. So, yes, confidently showcase your NSCS membership on your resume; it's a symbol of accomplishment that speaks volumes.

Question 16

How involved do I have to be?

Accepted Answer

Although participation is not mandatory, NSCS strongly encourages all members to engage in our community as much as they would like. Our chapter leaders work diligently to create a variety of activities ranging from networking events to social gatherings to meaningful community service projects. NSCS membership doesn't come with a set minimum involvement requirement or time commitment. Your level of engagement is entirely based on your preferences and availability.

Question 17

I'm planning to transfer to a different school. What will happen with my membership?

Accepted Answer

If the school you are transferring to has an NSCS chapter, your membership can be easily transferred to your new school. If there is no NSCS chapter at your new school, you will be a member of the NSCS Global Chapter and will have access to the same benefits and resources. Membership is a lifetime guarantee and your membership will be valid at any college or university you attend.

Question 18

What is the Induction Ceremony?

Accepted Answer

The Induction Ceremony is a noteworthy occasion where NSCS' newest members are formally acknowledged. The National NSCS office hosts monthly virtual induction ceremonies, which members will be able to RSVP for after registering.

Question 19

What kinds of scholarships does NSCS have?

Accepted Answer

NSCS offers diverse scholarships for our undergraduate members, including exclusive opportunities for study abroad and internships based on merit. NSCS works with our scholarship partners every year to provide exclusive opportunities to our members. To learn more about NSCS scholarships visit our scholarships page.

Question 20

How much scholarship money does NSCS award each year?

Accepted Answer

In 2025, NSCS awarded over $300,000 in scholarships to 44 scholars. This includes the BHE Foundation Emerging Leaders Scholarship ($10,000 each to 20 recipients), Semester at Sea study abroad scholarships ($5,000-$10,000), GEICO "Student of the Year" Changemaker Awards ($10,000 each to 6 recipients), College Impact Awards, and internship program scholarships. Recipients are selected based on academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.

Question 21

What support is available from the NSCS office?

Accepted Answer

At NSCS, our dedicated and experienced full-time staff may be small in number, but their impact is immense. They maintain close communication with chapter officers and with a wealth of experience in higher education, they wholeheartedly champion the comprehensive growth of NSCS-affiliated students. We invite you to reach out to them Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm Eastern Time. Their dedication ensures that you're supported every step of the way.

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