Sigma Phi Epsilon – Illinois Epsilon Chapter

Sigma Phi Epsilon (SigEp) is not just another fraternity. We are one of the largest and most successful national fraternities, with a proud history of leadership, academic excellence, and brotherhood. 

From 1969 to 2007, SigEp at Northern Illinois University (NIU) defined leadership on campus as excelling in academics, athletics, and social life. 

Now, we are rebuilding—and we want exceptional young men to be part of this exciting transformation.   Over the past 5 years, our  chapter receives recognition for consistently the highest GPA out of all the IFC chapters. 

Why Sigma Phi Epsilon?

SigEp continues to be one of the top fraternities in the nation, with leaders in government, industry, and the arts. 

The reason?  SigEp refuses to adhere to outdated fraternity standards, focusing instead on building balanced men for the future.  We believe that by removing the outdated “pledging” model of traditional fraternities, SigEp is able to attract young men who care about their academics and personal growth, done in a setting where all brothers have equal rights. 

By removing hazing and emphasizing continuous development, SigEp mentors young men in a fun and challenging atmosphere, shared with brothers who will become lifelong friends.  We ask for young men who will consider an opportunity to be part of something bigger—a movement to redefine what it means to be a fraternity man at NIU. 

What We Offer:

• New House On Greek Row - Our Newly Renovated Sig Ep House on Hilcrest Drive, features Bedroom Suites (Similar to The Plaza), The largest Bedroom's on Greek Row, Dedicated learning areas and so much more. You need to come see it to appreciate it. 
• Housing Scholarships for the 2025-26 School Year: The alumni of Sig Ep are offering an incredible opportunity for the 2025-26 school year: Housing Scholarships (yes, free housing) with no strings attached.  We are seeking young men of solid character who will consider joining Sigma Phi Epsilon.  
• Balanced Man Scholarships—Each Year, we offer academic scholarships to all incoming NIU men. $3,000 in scholarships are awarded each spring. Selection is based on an applicant’s academic record, volunteer activities, and leadership qualities. Applications are available at https://northernillinois.sigep.org/bms/   
• Leadership Opportunities: With the fraternity chapter in its early stages, there are opportunities to become a leader. You’ll play a key role in developing activities that help define SigEp at NIU. As a founding member, you’ll learn how to balance academics with fraternity and campus life while shaping your fraternity’s future and legacy.  
• Supportive Brotherhood: In addition to the friendships you’ll forge in your chapter, you’ll meet key alumni throughout the Chicago area and attend fraternity functions, where you’ll meet SigEps throughout the nation.  You’ll find that, coupled with a commitment to personal growth, SigEp has a national reputation of excellence, with a powerful legacy of alumni support.
• Networking and Career Growth: Interact and work with SigEp alumni, connecting with a vast network of successful Sig Ep alumni across various industries gaining valuable mentorship and support to advance your future career.

Who We’re Looking For:

• Young men who consider their academics a priority.  We’re not expecting perfection, yet SigEp is looking for men who consider growth – mental, spiritual, and physical growth – a life-long journey.
• Men who are willing to take the initiative and contribute to something greater than themselves.  It doesn’t matter where your talent lies.  A healthy fraternity grows stronger with brothers from diverse backgrounds and talents. Success is a Team Effort.  

Requirements for New Members:

• Participation in the Balanced Man Program: New Members must complete the first challenge in the Fraternity’s Balanced Man New program during the Spring 2025 semester, focusing on personal growth and leadership development.
• Academic Excellence: New Members must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 throughout the Spring 2025 semester and the 2025–2026 academic year. Academic success is a core value of Sigma Phi Epsilon. (School GPA is 2.6
• Active Participation and Citizenship: New Members must remain active in the fraternity, attend chapter meetings, and participate in fraternity events (local and national) and activities.
• New Members are expected to exhibit good conduct as Sig Ep members while displaying good citizenship.

Financial Commitment:

While we are offering Rent Scholarships (free rent), new members are responsible for:

• Meal Plan: New Members must pay for the fraternity's meal plan during the Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters.
• National and Local Dues: New Members must pay and be current with Chapter dues, currently estimated at $500 per semester.

Follow Us: Sigma Phi Epsilon (@niusigep) • Instagram photos and videos