Start a Chapter
Welcome! Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity was founded in 1898 in New York City and is the world’s oldest and largest Jewish fraternity. For more than 50 years, Zeta Beta Tau has been an inclusive Brotherhood of Equals, and for over three decades ZBT has been a pioneer in the fight against hazing, having abolished all two-tier membership statuses and pledging practices in 1989. ZBT is represented on more than 75 campuses across North America and has initiated 140,000 brothers. Our brothers know that ZBT is Brotherhood for a Lifetime, beginning the day you are initiated and continuing through your life.
You may be asking, is ZBT a fit for me?
If you live by the values of our Credo — you should be a ZBT! Leave a legacy on your campus and be a Founding Father of Zeta Beta Tau.
- ZBT is a Jewish fraternity open to all. ZBT is proud of our founding as the first Jewish fraternity. Today, ZBT is open to men of all backgrounds and religions.
- No pledging or hazing. ZBT was the first fraternity to abolish the pledge process. We are a brotherhood founded on respect.
- 75+ chapters and 140,000 alumni and undergraduate brothers. ZBT has brothers in the USA, Canada, Israel and around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the time commitment needed to start a new chapter as a Founding Father?
You put in what you want out of it! Most brothers will commit an hour two per week to the chapter; those interested in leadership roles will put in more time. As a non-pledging fraternity, the strenuous pledge process that damages GPA and social life is eliminated.
What are the costs associated with joining Zeta Beta Tau?
The one-time fee for Founding Fathers who start a chapter is $320. This fee covers the expenses to for both the initiation semester and the year following. Local chapter dues are decided by the brothers in leadership.
What are the requirements to join ZBT?
Be a fully matriculated student at your college/university, have a high school or undergraduate GPA of at least 2.7, and share in the values of Intellectual Awareness, Social Responsibility, Integrity and Brotherly Love.
I am not Jewish, should I join a Jewish fraternity?
Yes! Zeta Beta Tau is open to all men of good character. We are proud to be an inclusive historically Jewish organization.
If ZBT sounds like the Fraternity for you or if you have more questions, please contact Director of Organizational Growth Chris Williams at cwilliams@zbtnational.org or 803-683-2977.
Brothers share a phrase within our bonds, and we want you to know and agree: “It’s GREAT to be a ZBT!”
