Phi Beta Kappa (PBK)
GPA Calculator
Are you eligible for the nation's most prestigious honor society? Enter your GPA and degree type to check your eligibility.
* Phi Beta Kappa invitations are strictly limited to the Liberal Arts and Sciences. Professional degrees (Business, Engineering, Nursing) are generally not eligible, regardless of GPA.
The Prestige of Phi Beta Kappa
Founded in 1776, Phi Beta Kappa is the oldest and most prestigious academic honor society in the United States. Only about 10% of U.S. colleges and universities have PBK chapters, and those chapters invite only the top 10% of their Arts & Sciences graduates to join. It is highly regarded by top-tier law schools, medical schools, and graduate programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA do you need for Phi Beta Kappa?
Phi Beta Kappa typically requires a GPA in the top 10% of the graduating class. While there is no strict national GPA cutoff, at most competitive universities, this translates to a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.8 to 3.9.
Can business or engineering majors join Phi Beta Kappa?
Generally, no. Phi Beta Kappa is strictly for students pursuing degrees in the liberal arts and sciences. Professional degree programs like Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Applied Sciences are typically not eligible for membership, regardless of how high their GPA is.
Do I apply for Phi Beta Kappa?
No, you cannot apply. Membership is strictly by invitation only. The local chapter at your university will review transcripts of juniors and seniors to determine who meets the rigorous academic and breadth requirements, and will send invitations accordingly.
What are the non-GPA requirements for PBK?
In addition to a top 10% GPA, PBK requires intermediate college-level proficiency in a foreign language, at least one college-level course in mathematics, logic, or statistics, and a demonstrated breadth of study across the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences.