Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pi Kappa Alpha and PIKE the same thing?
Yes, PIKE is a common nickname for the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, and our members are often referred to as "Pikes." As more and more fraternities were founded, many with very similar Greek letters, PIKE became an easy way to differentiate Pi Kappa Alpha from groups with similar names.
How large is Pi Kappa Alpha?
Pi Kappa Alpha is one of the largest fraternal organizations in the world, with over 220 chapters and colonies throughout the United States and Canada, and with an undergraduate membership of close to 14,000 members. Since the Fraternity’s founding in 1868, over 240,000 men have been initiated into Pi Kappa Alpha. See a full list of Pi Kappa Alpha Chapters and Alumni Associations.
What is PIKE known for?
The Fraternity’s values are expressed in the written words and symbols of the secret ritual, which every member strives to include in his daily actions through set of standards called The True Pike. Pi Kappa Alpha's members seek to be an example to their peers by exemplifying Scholars, Leaders, Athletes, and Gentlemen.
What is Pike University?
Pike University is the leadership education program of Pi Kappa Alpha. It seeks to provide educational programs aimed at fostering leadership, management and personal development skills in order to prepare our members for success. Pike University events address the educational needs of all of our members, from pledges and new members, to chapter officers, to our dedicated alumnus volunteers. There are 12 or more events hosted each and every year. Learn more about Pike University.
How will the Fraternity affect my grades?
One of the biggest adjustments a new collegiate has to make is getting used to the time management and personal accountability required to be successful academically. Academics are emphasized from day one at Pi Kappa Alpha. Study hours, tutoring and brother mentoring are all encouraged activities in the new member education program. A commitment to scholastic excellence carries on well beyond initiation. Many chapters offer financial incentives for outstanding scholastic performance and brothers in the same major can offer advice on the best path to graduation. Additionally, studies show that fraternity membership increases student retention by 28%, and that 70% of Greek members graduate compared to only 50% of non-Greek students.
How will the Fraternity help me after graduation?
There are over 129,000 living Pi Kappa Alpha alumni. While membership in the Fraternity cannot guarantee a member a job after graduation, a network of such magnitude will definitely open some doors along the way. Some notable prominent Pikes include Tim McGraw, Bobby Bowden, Stephen Covey and Scott Van Pelt. On top of the alumni network, members of Pi Kappa Alpha also receive valuable life lessons and leadership training through their experiences within the Fraternity. There are numerous leadership roles available in the chapter as well as activities including community service projects, philanthropies and social events that will help your son develop the necessary leadership and social skills to be successful after graduation.
How much does it all cost?
Fraternities charge membership dues in order to provide the funds to run well rounded programs that will add to a student's college experience, just like most professional clubs. Pi Kappa Alpha's dues vary by chapter, depending on the campus, region, and members; however, a recent study of the Fraternity’s chief competitors revealed that Pi Kappa Alpha ranks first overall as the most affordable amongst the top ten fraternities in total cost per member. Payment plans are offered by most chapters and encouraged by Pi Kappa Alpha so that membership can be made available to students of all backgrounds.
Does Pi Kappa Alpha haze?
Pi Kappa Alpha, along with many other fraternities, abolished hazing in its chapters many years ago. The International Fraternity does not condone hazing in any way. In order for a chapter’s charter to remain in good standing with the International Fraternity, it agrees not to participate in hazing activities, as they are counter-productive to the positive growth of college men.
What is my role as a parent?
We encourage all of our parents to be involved and ask a lot of questions. This will likely be a growing experience for you and your son. There is a lot of information available on this website. In addition to those resources, members of the chapter are more than happy to answer any other questions or concerns that you might have. Please contact us for more information.