• All students interested in membership must be enrolled at a school with an active NJHS chapter and must have completed the equivalent of one semester of enrollment.

• Chapters may consider students in grades 6–9 for membership.

• The chapter’s bylaws and published selection procedure description should outline which of these eligible grade levels will be considered for membership in the chapter and when.

• Sixth graders must be in their second semester of sixth grade for consideration.

• Ninth grade students are only eligible membership in NJHS if they attend a middle level school that has an active NJHS chapter.

• Ninth grade students in a traditional 9-12 high school are not eligible for NJHS membership

Scholarship

• 4.0 GPA (ONLY 8th grade HONORS classes are graded on a 5 point scale)

Service

• This involves voluntary contributions made by a student and done without compensation.

• Chapters can require evidence of service to either the school, the community or both.

Leadership

• Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors.

• Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.

• Chapters can require evidence of leadership from within school or the community or both.

Character

• The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others.

• A chapter’s 5-member council may review or consider disciplinary records.

Citizenship

• In general, the student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic engagement; has a high regard for freedom and justice; and respects democracy.

• The selection process concludes with induction into the school’s National Junior Honor Society chapter.