Phi Beta Kappa was founded in 1776 to honor the best and brightest liberal arts and sciences undergraduates. The Greek initials that form the name of Phi Beta Kappa are the society's motto, "Love of learning is the guide of life."
Membership in Phi Beta Kappa is based on academic achievement. Most inductees are seniors; a limited number of especially outstanding students may be elected at the end of their junior year.
