How do Oxy students get into Phi Beta Kappa?
Occidental seniors are offered membership in Phi Beta Kappa on the basis of their excellent academic record. There is no application process. Eligibility is determined using a normed GPA algorithm, and students must also meet the requirements for breadth and depth of study across the liberal arts and sciences defined by the Phi Beta Kappa Society . 8-10 students per year are elected in the early fall on the basis of their grades through the end of their junior year. Another 40-50 students are elected following the fall semester of their senior year.
Oxys Phi Beta Kappa initiation ceremony traditionally is held on the Friday afternoon of the Commencement weekend in May. The families and close friends of the initiates are invited to attend the ceremony.
Ben Culley Prize
Recognizing Exceptional Students
Each year, Oxys Phi Beta Kappa chapter awards the Culley prize, named in honor of Ben Culley, who was a mathematics professor, administrator, and Phi Beta Kappa secretary-treasurer at the College for four decades. This prize is presented a graduating senior whose initiative and creativity beyond the classroom have significantly enhanced the quality of intellectual life in the Occidental community. All graduating seniors are eligible, and any member of the Occidental community can make nominations.
Alumni Graduate Student Scholarship
Supporting Graduate Study
Each year, the Southern California Phi Beta Kappa Alumni Association awards a scholarship to an 酴圖弝け senior Phi Beta Kappa initiate who will be attending graduate school in the liberal arts and sciences.