National Honor Society Induction Requirements

Students who study can meet the NHS scholarship requirement.Studying Hard image by Monika 3 Steps Ahead from Fotolia.com

The National Honor Society recognizes outstanding high school students who fulfill requirements in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership and character. Although specific standards vary depending on the school, students must meet these core requirements to receive an invitation to join the organization. NHS advisers at each school determine which students are eligible for induction, and they can guide students in achieving these core requirements.

Scholarship

Scholarship represents the academic component of National Honor Society induction requirements. The national organization recommends a B average, meaning an 85 percent on a 100-point scale or a 3.0 on a 4.0 grade point average scale. However, the faculty advisers at each school can choose higher scholarship standards.

The scholarship portion of the NHS requirements is the first cut for applicants---faculty will not consider any student who does not meet these academic requirements.

National Honor Society hopefuls must demonstrate service to the school, their church or community to join the organization. Students can showcase this service experience by participating in individual service projects after school or on weekends.

At some schools, students have to complete mandatory service work to fulfill this requirement. For example, Charlotte Christian School expects NHS applicants to complete the Knights Service program during their freshman and sophomore years of high school.

Students interested in joining the National Honor Society must demonstrate leadership capabilities as well. They can show leadership by earning roles as captains of sports teams or executive councils of clubs.

According to the National Honor Society website, leadership also includes the ability to solve problems, contribute ideas and be resourceful. Students can look beyond school extracurricular activities for leadership opportunities and find them in their community..

Students also must demonstrate a strong character to be inducted into the National Honor Society. They can display their character by following school rules and staying out of trouble. A NHS inductee can further show strong character by demonstrating honesty, reliability, courtesy and respect. Charlotte Christian School explains that character includes "a teachable spirit and a genuine interest to learn and grow."