FAQ
How do I become a member of National Junior Honor Society?
To become a member of NJHS, you must be selected as a candidate by your chapter's faculty council. Students who meet their chapter’s cumulative GPA requirement are then considered for membership on the basis of service, leadership, citizenship and character. You may be asked to complete a candidate form created and distributed by your local chapter.
Membership is determined by a majority vote of the faculty council, following an evaluation of candidates’ qualifications for membership. See the How to Become a Student Member section for more information.
Are homeschooled students eligible for NJHS membership?
No. However, students enrolled in schools part-time who meet the requirements for initial review may be eligible for membership, if chapter bylaws permit.
I was a member of National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) in middle school. Am I automatically eligible to join NHS?
No. NHS and NJHS are separate entities with different requirements for membership.
Does NJHS offer leadership training to members?
Members can attend any of three yearly LEAD conferences for leadership training. State associations may also provide leadership opportunities.
Will I be notified if I'm not selected for NJHS membership?
Local chapters are strongly encouraged to notify nonselected candidates. Some chapters also provide explanations and counseling, but they are not required to do so.
Can I join NJHS via the national office/website?
No. All decisions regarding membership in NJHS chapters are handled at the local level.
How can I find out about my local chapter's selection procedure?
All chapters are required to publish their selection procedure in a manner widely accessible to students, parents, and faculty (see article IX of the NJHS Constitution). Try looking in school publications or on your school's website; if you're still having trouble finding them, ask your local chapter adviser.
Please note that the national office cannot provide information about individual chapters' selection procedures.
If I'm not selected for NJHS membership, can I appeal the decision?
Yes, though only at the local level, through existing chapter procedures. The national office does not hear appeals for student membership decisions, except in the case of a chapter violating the NJHS Constitution(see our Complaint Process FAQ). Please keep in mind that NJHS membership is a privilege, not a right, and that your school's faculty council has every authority to withhold membership.
If I transfer schools, does my NJHS membership transfer with me?
Yes, if you provide a letter from your former principal or chapter adviser confirming your membership—though you must meet your new chapter's standards within one semester to retain your membership (see Article VIII of the NJHS Constitution).