Recognized & Unrecognized Groups

It is important for students and families to understand the differences between university “Recognized” and “Unrecognized” fraternities and sororities:

A “Recognized” fraternity or sorority is one that is in good standing with the university. University recognized fraternities and sororities are also recognized by one of the three fraternity and sorority governing councils – the Panhellenic Council, Interfraternity Council, or the Multicultural Greek Council. Recognized fraternities and sororities receive many privileges from the university including the ability to host/sponsor events on campus, house first-year students (IFC and PHC), utilize university facilities, and many others.

An “Unrecognized” fraternity or sorority is not associated with the university. These organizations and their members do not receive any support or advisement from the university. Unrecognized fraternities and sororities may not participate in any university-sponsored activity and may not utilize any property owned, operated, leased or managed by the University of Idaho. In some cases, the university may have severed its relationship with these organizations due to significant and serious concerns over the health and safety of our students and university community or the organization did not follow the proper procedure to become a recognized organization on campus but chooses to continue to operate as an organization without the recognition of the university. In either case, the university would strongly discourage maintaining or seeking membership in these organizations.

Have questions about the organization you would like to join? Send us an email.