# National English Honor Society The National English Honor Society (NEHS), sponsored by Sigma Tau Delta, is a prestigious honor society for high school students who demonstrate excellence in English language arts. This program recognizes students in grades 10-12 for their outstanding academic achievements in English, as well as their passion for literature, writing, and the power of language. NEHS provides students with opportunities to celebrate their accomplishments, engage in meaningful literary activities, and connect with peers and mentors who share their interests. ## Program Structure The National English Honor Society operates in an **in-person format**, with chapters located at schools across the United States. Students typically participate in NEHS activities throughout the academic year, with schedules and events varying by chapter. Key components of the program include chapter meetings, service projects, literary discussions, writing workshops, and opportunities to publish creative or academic writing. Membership is initiated through an application process (outlined below), and students, once accepted, are inducted into their local chapter. Each chapter is supported by Sigma Tau Delta, the organization that oversees and provides resources for NEHS. While the specific timeline and duration of activities depend on the chapter, the program is designed to complement students’ academic schedules. The annual membership fee is $15. ## What Students Experience Students in NEHS actively engage in a variety of enriching academic and extracurricular activities that deepen their connection to English language arts. These may include: - Participating in service projects that promote literacy and foster a love of reading in their communities. - Attending chapter meetings to discuss literature, share creative writing, or collaborate on group projects. - Gaining access to exclusive opportunities such as writing competitions, scholarships, and publication platforms. - Networking with like-minded peers, advisors, and mentors who are passionate about English, writing, and literature. - Developing leadership skills through officer roles or by organizing events and initiatives within their chapter. Through these experiences, NEHS members grow as writers, readers, and critical thinkers while building a strong sense of community with others who value the power of language. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Membership in the National English Honor Society is a significant distinction that helps students stand out on college applications. It demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence in English, as well as a passion for language and literature. Colleges and universities value the contributions NEHS members make to their schools and communities, particularly through service projects and leadership roles. Additionally, students can leverage opportunities such as scholarships and publication credits to further strengthen their applications. Being part of NEHS signals to admissions officers that a student is dedicated, well-rounded, and capable of excelling in a rigorous academic environment. ## Eligibility To be eligible for the National English Honor Society, students must: - Be in **grades 10-12** at a school with an existing NEHS chapter. - Demonstrate academic excellence in English, meeting the GPA requirements determined by their local chapter. - Exhibit a strong interest in English language arts, including literature, writing, and related fields. Interested students should check with their school to confirm the presence of an NEHS chapter and review any specific requirements set forth by their chapter advisor. ## How to Participate Students interested in joining the National English Honor Society should: 1. **Inquire at their school** to verify if an NEHS chapter exists and obtain information about the application process. 2. **Complete an application** as directed by their chapter advisor, which may include submitting an academic transcript, teacher recommendations, or a writing sample. 3. **Pay the $15 membership fee** upon acceptance into the program. Deadlines and application details vary by school, so students are encouraged to contact their chapter advisor or visit the [Sigma Tau Delta website](https://www.english.org/) for additional information about NEHS and its requirements. Joining the National English Honor Society is an incredible opportunity for students passionate about English to be recognized for their achievements, grow as scholars, and make a meaningful impact within their communities.