The most frequently asked question by potential recruits or parents is in regards to the costs of joining and continuing membership in Alpha Kappa Lambda. As every chapter and colony has different expenses and needs there is no one flat number that can be given. The following information is simply a way to help explain the costs.
Membership Fee - Every man that joins Alpha Kappa Lambda pays a nonrefundable membership fee the day he pledges. This fee is paid directly to the National Fraternity however it is collected by the chapter.
Member Dues - Active chapters and colonies are charged dues by the National Fraternity each semester. The amount charged is based on the number of members. All undergraduate members on campus are included in this count and therefore each is required to pay the chapter for this charge.
Insurance - The Fraternity carries three insurance policies to protect our members and the volunteers that work with them. These policies are lumped into a premium paid by the National Fraternity. Each chapter is then billed a portion of the premium depending on the number of members, if they are housed and if they have had any risk managment violations.
Meetings Fees - In the spring semester a meetings fee is charged to each member. This small fee helps offset the costs of the leadership and convention activities each summer.
Parlor Fee - Members of housed chapters that choose to live outside the house are sometimes charged a parlor fee by the chapter. This fee covers usage of the house, possible meals and other expenses incurred by the chapter on behalf of the member.
House Bill - Members that live at the Fraternity residence will have a house bill. This is for room and meals as provided by teh specific chapter. This activity is handled by teh chapter or local corporation.
Local Dues - Chapters will bill members local dues that go directly towards the activities of the local chapter. This includes social functions, t-shirts, homecoming activities and other similar activities.