Mortar Board Honor Society | What Students Should Know

Mortar Board is an honor society traditionally associated with recognizing undergraduate students who demonstrate achievement in scholarship, leadership, and service. It commonly operates through campus chapters at participating colleges and universities, with eligibility criteria set locally.

If you received an invitation, a helpful first step is understanding what it represents at your specific school—how eligibility was determined, whether there is an active chapter, and what participation typically involves.

— Mortar Board Honor Society FAQ

Who Mortar Board Is For

Mortar Board generally serves undergraduate students, often in their junior or senior year, who meet academic and leadership criteria established by their institution and local chapter. Chapter activity and requirements can vary by campus.

How Invitations Typically Work

Invitations are commonly issued through a participating institution or local chapter, sometimes in coordination with academic affairs or student leadership offices. Students can ask which chapter issued the invitation and what criteria were used.

Certification, Affiliation, and What That Means

Some honor societies, including Mortar Board, participate in private membership associations such as the Association of College Honor Societies (ACHS). These affiliations indicate organizational membership and alignment with internal standards.

They are not government accreditation, not college or university accreditation, and do not define legitimacy or outcomes on their own.

— What Does “Certified Honor Society” Mean?
— ACHS “Certified” Member Societies

How Students Should Evaluate Fit

Students evaluating Mortar Board or any leadership-focused honor society often consider:

— How eligibility for the invitation was determined
— Whether there is an active chapter at their institution
— What leadership, service, or recognition opportunities are available locally
— How participation aligns with academic and personal goals

— Honor Society Guides
— What Is an Honor Society?

Can Students Join More Than One Honor Society?

Yes. Many students participate in multiple honor societies or academic organizations, especially when those organizations recognize different aspects of achievement.

Disclaimer

This page is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not evaluate academic merit, student achievement, leadership ability, institutional endorsement, or the quality or value of any organization.

Honor Society® is an independent, private organization and is not affiliated with Mortar Board or any third-party organization referenced on this page. Nothing on this page is intended to interfere with any organization’s operations or relationships; students should verify details directly and make decisions based on complete disclosures and personal goals.