Pi Sigma Alpha

 

Pi Sigma Alpha (PSA) is the University’s National Political Science Honor Society and was founded in 1920 at The University of Texas at Austin. The Alpha Chapter at UT brings together high-achieving undergraduate students dedicated to the study of government, politics, democracy, and public service. 

 

As a national honors society headquartered in Washington, D.C., Pi Sigma Alpha promotes excellence in political science through scholarships, awards, lecture funding, and professional development opportunities. Membership provides access to national and local networking, academic recognition, leadership development, and eligibility for official membership certificates, as well as graduation cords and medallions to be worn at commencement. 

The chapter is currently led by:

Isabella Sanchez, President

Hailey Toten, Vice President 

 

Membership Eligibility & Requirements

Pi Sigma Alpha recognizes students and honorary members.

Undergraduate Student Membership 

Applicants must meet all of the following: 

● Completion of at least 60 total credit hours 

● Completion of at least 10 credit hours in political science, government, international relations, public administration, or a related interdisciplinary field (with significant political science coursework) 

● Major GPA of at least 3.25 in the qualifying coursework 

● Overall UT GPA of at least 3.50 

 

Students who do not meet the overall GPA requirement may submit a Letter of Explanation to the Executive Board and Chapter Advisor for consideration of extenuating circumstances. 

If a member’s GPA later falls below the required standard, membership privileges may be temporarily suspended until the standard is met again. 

 

Honorary Membership 

Honorary membership may be conferred upon individuals of distinguished achievement in the field of political science by a two-thirds vote of the chapter or by the National Office. Honorary members hold all privileges of active membership. 

 

Dues 

New members pay a one-time initiation fee of $35, which covers: 

● National registration 

● Official membership certificate 

● Induction ceremony 

● Chapter programming and events 

 

Apply & Stay Connected 

● Apply for membership: PSA ‘26 Membership Application 

 

For questions and to sign up for our weekly newsletter, please contact: pisigmaalphautaustin@gmail.com