We received a letter from the high school that our daughter is eligible for a membership in NSHSS (National Society of High School Scholars). Is this worth the money? Should we do it?
NO.
No, it is not really that prestigious or exclusive—everyone you know got the same invitation letter. No, it isn’t really a honor—invitations were sent out to most students regardless of actual achievements. And no, you shouldn’t pay money for it because everyone in the field of higher education know this is really a scam.
Why do these “honor programs” exist?
So why is the National Society of High School Scholars or the Who’s Who of American High School Students letter an annual source of frustration for me and others who help teens and their families with college admission? These companies (and others like them) do an excellent job of marketing to the hopes and fears of parents.
“Acceptance” letters often come on fancy letterhead with gold seals and extra inserts proclaiming the prestige and opportunity of their offer. Who doesn’t want their child to be recognized? And too often parents and students want to jump at any opportunity to stand out when it comes to college admission.
Unfortunately these “awards” are no more than a purchased database of high school names and addresses looking to sell their accolades.
Can I list this as an award / honor on my college applications?
You shouldn’t. Colleges are not impressed with “awards” you have bought yourself.
Colleges want to see what you have DONE. If you have earned recognition for doing something, it is worth noting on your applications. But Who’s Who or NSHSS don’t ask you to DO anything other than pay for the privilege.
But what about the benefits they mention?
If you are looking for scholarships, conferences, discounts from business partners, or any of the other benefits, you can get them elsewhere. Search for scholarships online that don’t require a $75 membership fee to apply. (In fact, one sure sign of a scholarship scam is asking for money in order to apply.) There are dozens of youth conferences to help motivate, inspire, and challenge students in a variety of fields. And your local health club or Costco will have business partners willing to offer you discounts.
How to spot scams targeting teens and their families.
Next time you get an email or letter in the mail announcing an “opportunity,” here are a few ways to spot the scam:
- If it is an honor or award, has my child done something specific to earn this honor? (writing a winning essay, competing in a national event, completing the requirements for an organizational award, etc.)
- Have other neighbors or friends received the same communication? It can’t be exclusive or prestigious if a majority of students receive it.
- Is payment required? You should NEVER have to pay to apply for or receive a scholarship. Membership in some national organizations may involve a registration fee, but most have a local chapter representative who you can ask (i.e. the debate coach who represents your chapter of the National Speech & Debate Association or the NHS sponsor who represents your chapter of the National Honor Society.)
- Is this a recognized organization? It can be hard to keep up, so when in doubt, check the National Association of Secondary Principals’ list of activities and contests that offer actual academic value. These programs have to demonstrate some benefit to participating students.
- Are you considering it solely to “look good to colleges”? There is no silver bullet for admission—no single activity, club, or award that will help you get in. Students should pursue interests and talents. This may be the most genuine way to avoid scams.
So you can throw the NSHSS letter in the trash. You aren’t missing a thing.
Colleges are not impressed. In fact, listing one of these “buy your own award” items on a college application or resume may backfire. Instead of looking accomplished, you look like the fool who got scammed into thinking this marketing ploy was a real achievement.
June 2019 Update—
I know when the NSHSS letters go out each year because I start getting messages from parents and students unhappy with what they read here.
“But it is exclusive; no one else in our town got it.” “My child has worked so hard this year. How dare you diminish this achievement for him / her.”
Let me add some additional thoughts to the original article.
Does anyone with experience in higher education consider this an exclusive honor?
Maybe I should re-title this article with the above question. The answer is clear. NO. No one with experience in high school and post-secondary education considers NSHSS an exclusive honor. College admissions officers do not respect NSHSS or consider it an academic achievement. You will not impress people with experience in higher education if you list or claim this “award.”
Consider the source as you weigh opinions on NSHSS.
I have over 25 year’s experience working with high school students seeking admission to colleges and universities. I have a BA from Rice University, a Master’s in Counseling Psychology from University of Houston, and a Certificate in College Admissions Counseling from UCLA. In other words, I have the credentials and experience to speak on this issue.
Additionally, I am an unbiased party to this discussion. I do not work for NSHSS or any of its partners. I also have not spent any money with NSHSS. I don’t have to justify my purchase in order to save face.
Still think you should consider NSHSS— just in case? Start asking other experienced college admissions consultants what they think. Visit a college fair and ask at every booth what they think of NSHSS. I can tell you the results. You might get a few blank faces with lack of recognition. (That should be a tip right there when people who should know don’t.) You will also get a lot of head shaking, eye rolling, and possibly some uncomfortable conversations where the person you ask tries diplomatically to say it isn’t a real award while trying not to insult you in case you fell victim to the slick letter and website. (They don’t want to say directly how stupid it is.)
Consider your sources as you make a decision. Look for experienced educators who aren’t trying to sell a NSHSS membership.
It is ok to celebrate the recognition as long as it stops there.
I am the parent of a recent high school graduate and a rising seventh grader. I know how hard it is. I understand there are times every kid, even the ones who seem to have it all together, need a confidence boost. I know that some students are just not finding success the way their schools are structured, so any external validation is appreciated.
I don’t want this article to take away your joy. Go ahead and celebrate. I understand it and don’t fault anyone who does.
But what you do next is important. Don’t fall for the sales pitch. Don’t send NSHSS your money. And don’t list NSHSS on your college applications or college-bound resume.
NSHSS is preying on the hopes and fears of high school students and their parents. We want our children to be recognized. We want opportunities to open up and any chance to improve options for college admission and scholarships. Unfortunately, NSHSS will NOT help.
Thank you for this information. My daughter received this invitation and i was a little suspicious. At first i thought it was from the National Honor Society but i know that would come directly from her school. I was really close to putting that bumper sticker on my car until i read your email so thank you!
Me Too!! Not the bumper sticker part but I was on the site, because my daughter said it was the “last day” to join, putting in my information, getting ready to create a password when my common sense kicked in and I thought – better look this up! So glad that I did!! She was disappointed but I was not surprised. Glad I found this site!!
Thank you so much for this information. We almost paid the membership fee. So glad my husband checked first if it was legit or scam.
There are requirements for getting into NSHSS, it isn’t just for everybody and requiring a fee isn’t uncommon so using that as a reason for disqualifying it as legitimate. As a member I know I had to achieve certain goals to enter and I have used it as a reference on several applications for different things and have never run into a problem. Discouraging people from taking every opportunity they can is extremely counter productive.
Sorry you got scammed. Lol, even I received one of these letters and I’m almost 50 not even in high school. It’s a shame companies like this can exist.
Just because you received the letter does it mean your child qualifies. Go on to their website and it tells you what the requirements are.
My husband received the same invitation to the NSHSH. He is 59 and even though he has and has ran a lifetime successful business he dropped out of school in 11 grade. I’ve seen his report cards and they are pathetic
Uh, sorry, could you try that again? They said THEY got that message, NOT their child. Read what people say before you reply, dingus. If you got scammed, then you’re a f**king idiot, DON’T APPLY WHEN YOU KNOW IT’S OBVIOUSLY A BAD IDEA.
Theo,
While NSHSS makes you think there are exclusive standards, there aren’t. The only requirement is that you pay the fee. I want students to get involved, develop talents and interests, and pursue academics; I don’t want to see families taken advantage of by a program that is NOT exclusive or prestigious.
Megan Dorsey
This is coming from a member of NSHSS… it is a scam young Theo that you have bought into-the lies promising a better future for $75 down.
Bumpkin, you are a member? if you know its a scam then is there a way to get your money back and not be a member anymore?
Sorry bud, I got an opportunity for, “[my] outstanding academic achievement”. At the time of the email I was failing three classes, not anymore though, but still. Glad I asked my professor and glad he gave me this website. It almost funny that if you look up “NSHSS”, this website will be on the first page.
Mu daughter is a member of NSHSS as well. She was among the four honor students in her senior class to receive their letter. As a member she has earned more scholarships and the University she applied for offered her a scholarship and she listed NSHSS on her papers. I’m glad she earned her awards and other recognition letters based on her GPA. NSHSS has been very helpful with many things to prepare her for her freshman year at Oakwood U.
Maybe she actually earned her scholarships based on what she did, not for listing NSHSS on her applications.
You got scammed son.
Theo: I assume you work for the NSHSS. If so, you and this company should know that there are consequences for preying upon the fears and concerns of college/career bound students. Hell is hot.
Let me guess. You also have a Who’s Who in Business plaque hanging on your wall along with the book that everybody else paid $75 to get.
I just received the letter and I don’t qualify for a single one of their requirements
Same but I’m not worried about that
Don’t you work for them? Come clean now!
Hello, I just wanted to inquire whether or not in your opinion on if it is worth mentioning in my college application that I was accepted into a leadership program offered by NSHSS (Ambassadors). After reading this, I am unsure as to if it will backfire and if it is still better to leave out the leadership program from my applcation entirely.
This is a bit late, but that program is a scam as well. I know many people who received that offer. Leadership programs are great, but if you are going to attend, you can find a cheaper, better one pretty easily.
I got this letter from my school. If it’s scam I don’t thing my school will send it to me. Pls explain
My granddaughter received this invitation yesterday. I am so glad that I did go on line to find out if it’s legitimate or a scam. I am also glad that I read comments from others. We all love to feel that our children are scholars. My husband and I are retired and very careful that we spend our money wisely. Than you for your input
Wow…almost. I was on the payment page, before I decided to do further research. The reviews were confusing. Helpful information. Thank you very much.
Please explain all of the scholarship opportunities that NSHSS provides for students entering college and in college. I am a newer member and I honestly feel that if they wanted to scam people they’d try to do a better job than this. I got my letter last summer through my school. My school checks everything before sending it to the student. I’m the only person in my school that has received a letter from NSHSS. This was posted around the time that I was accepted. Besides, you have to pay to participate in sports yet you have to earn the awards you get. Plus you even have to pay for certain things pertaining to one’s high school education and yet you have to earn awards. I feel that if you pay for something like that then you can most certainly be noticed for current or past hard work and be awarded later on whether you have to pay to join or not.
Morgan,
In the article I tried to present the fact that these programs are not scams in the most technical definition; they do provide the sessions. But the programs are not as prestigious or exclusive as advertised. I’ve had students attend and enjoy the conferences, but I don’t want families to think that NSHSS is an elite program. There are hundreds (maybe thousands) of summer programs for high school students that will provide more hands on opportunity and information. In the end, you can choose which program is right for you.
Megan
I think your opinion is just that, an opinion. There are a lot of students who have actually benefited from this organization, whether it’s getting scholarships or creating chapters in their schools to organize community activities. NSHSS is what you make it, just like anything you do. Additionally, not all high school organizations are free (I should know, I was in many of them; that’s including NHS!) Let people decide for themselves and do research, I have a feeling you probably haven’t called in to NSHSS or spoken with teachers and counselors who are actually involved with this organization.
The BBB has many complaints and they are each valid. The NSHHS always blames the complainant. I find the entity to be an illusion. Parents certain of high achieving students and rigorous organizations are not asking the simple question of ‘is the NSHSS legitimate’, worth it, etc. Hear your inner voice people. If you want statistical facts, just look online. But it seems everyone gets the invite, and once you do, you get your paper achievement to hang. It is no different to me that entities that will give therapy dog titles, a patch and meaningless paper, to anyone who pays the fee. Very few need to look at a surprise invite to realize their child may have done something in school. I guess joining NSHSS means they attended. My advice, save the 95 USD. Give it to your child. Tell them to join a club at school that speaks to their interests. If it is academic, every subject area has a club, or if not, start one. Be special, but don’t be a sheep which is joining the NSHSS. Then, let them use the 95 to invest in a social circle. My kids following college and through college, and now working in excellent jobs, only got there by four things: hard work, not being naive, making friends with up and coming and generational movers and shakers and becoming some, and having (honestly) great parents. I thought I was being a good parent with the first one by forking over the 95 USD for NSHSS, but he ended up at one of the nations top 3 universities. He was quick to pitch his NSHSS membership because those kids scoff at such fake societies. Plus, even if a student did something in high school, they would have been awarded by that school in its own right, and then again, saying you did this or that in HS and are now still looking at HS when you are prepared for college means you are looking back, and not forward to the meaningful challenges. Why does this both me so, I teach kids, some do not have pennies to rub together and the desperate parents and kids who lack visibility get this invite and then find a way to pay the 95 USD and then their kids who many are not even college ready or able on multiple fronts just got taken by society, business, whatever you want to say, but I expect a lot more (something) from any entity who makes a pitch under the guise of education to a still developing and hopeful child and then separates them from what they really need. Self worth (that does not come from a meaningless association), support, encouragement, engagement, options, and the truth – and the 95 USD back that just ended up in a 50 cent piece of paper with maybe 50 cents more for the ink and mailing. I assure you, you will feel dumb at some point if you do it – and the last thing a kid needs who is questioning ‘if’ they can make it at the college level is to feel dumb by the first ‘hey, I like you’ type of contact. That is all this is. So sure, I guess it does upset me a bit.
Morgan as a member yourself, is this program beneficial to me? I just got my invitation or whatever you want to call it, and after seeing this page and reading its comment they’re more negative then positive so naturally I’m confused. Is the NSHSS going to help me with scholarships, is it going to look good on my college applications? Please be honest, has it helped you? Or is it just a waste of time and 75 dollars. Please get back to me.
It’s not a scam in the strict definition; however, you’d have just as much luck tossing your $$ in the toilet and flushing. I have two children who finished college and one who will start in the fall. The first two were NSHSS members, the last one not. NSHSS meant nothing in terms of scholarships, awards, of getting into leadership organizations. Your child would be better off volunteering 10 or 20 hours a year to a food bank, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, or your favorite charity. You would also be better served to take the money and spend it to help you child get a 31+ ACT score. That seems to be where the real scholarship money is. 33+ with some community service background and a couple of leadership positions is the criteria for a full ride. My last child has a 32 ACT score with some leadership and volunteer positions. She got an 80% tuition scholarship plus $3,500 for housing. She was not a NSHSS member and got the most in tuition of my three children.
Thx so much for the info, I’ve been debating whether or not to pay for this, I now know I’m better off without it
We paid before we did any research and I am still on the fence if it will be beneficial. My DD got an email from them asking her to participate in a CIA Stem Camp. I have been doing a LOT of research to see if this is legitimate but can’t find anything. I am not putting her on a bus in a parking lot without me. Do you know if this is legitimate? Thank you for any help you can give because she really wants to do this.
I am a rising junior going into stem and I suggest letting her do this. She can put it on a resume for internships (I suggest putting the event, not the organization on anything. It’s one thing to actually go to events vs just paying into an org.) Shes 16, 17, or 18? She will be off soon anyways. It seems to be two days. Ask her if she has any friends that are going to the camp that she can stick with. Advise her to make friends quickly if not, preferably with a female who she can go to the bathroom, shop, and room with. Safety is in buddies. If you are really concerned, email the directors (or call them, for better assurance that they’ll get back to you) It would be fun for her I think. You can also send a family member or a family friend (preferably female) to go with her. (I say preferably female because as a 16-20 year old shes at her most vulnerable point so safety first, the stats show and can save lives) Let her explore the world, and her future career. I’m still just a 16 yr old though, so this is just my plans if I have a daughter later on.
So I am a high school student and I’m in 10 grade and I just got the NSHSS letter saying the same thing you talked about but I really don’t know if I should waste 75 I mean I already had another invitation from National academy of future scientists and technologists and I found out that it was a scam so I don’t know whether or not to apply for it or leave it alone. Help please.
The National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists is actually not a scam. I went to that and it had the best information there, but I went for the Future Medical Leaders and Physicians. One the last day there was a live surgery, that was cool. They give you a plaque, fee waivers and the best learning opportunities. If you can’t pay, they will whatever they can to help you join. Also, there are about only 120 kids there at the event, so it was prestigious and you could meet some of the Nobel Peace Prize winners. If you think it is a scam, next time, call the number provided and ask them a lot of questions. I mean a lot! That is what I did.
Wow I could never relate more on so many levels
Annette,
As I say in the article, NSHSS does offer a program that many students enjoy, but their claims of selectivity or recognition by colleges are untrue. What I find misleading about NSHSS (and similar programs) is the degree to which participation will help you in the future. It can be a positive experience. You can meet people and learn from it. But it is NOT particularly exclusive. Hundreds of students from your area, maybe even your high school, have been invited. The only thing exclusive about the program is who is willing to pay. It is not particularly prestigious; there are hundreds of other summer programs around the country that could give you a similar experience.
Essentially the program is real. The hype is not.
If you and your family have the money (or can manage to fight through the process of getting scholarships / sponsorships) then go. But you might want to check out other options before you do. You may find a better program somewhere else.
Hope this helps!
Megan
Annette,
I am a 10th grader and I just received my invitation, did you pay the fee? If not, why not? I am in desperate of answers, so please get back to me. Thank you.
They literally send them out to everyone!!!!
My friend’s son received one last year and he FAILED A COURSE AND HAD TO ATTEND SUMMER SCHOOL LAST YEAR!!! We were cracking up when that actually came in the mail addressed so “officially” to him!!!!! LMAO!!!
This is not funny… AT ALL
It is hilarious. This is such a money grabbing scam that they send these emails to every student they can find.
I think that it’s nice that everybody can get a chance to feel like they have a chance because the prestigious groups surely don’t. If you have the money for it I say spend it.
I’m keep reading and reading that everyone gets this letter and that’s not true my Daughter received it and she told all her friends and they posted it on social media and it got reposted several times and just one other kid in their school got the letter and after the posts being up for a while a friend of mine saw it and told me her son got the letter and they asked the school Director about it and they asked the student body about receiving the letter and only he received it out of the school, so my suggestion to anyone who receives the letter is to first try to find out how many other people got it and then search the web and specially the BBB they are a neutral source of information, and I just wanted to add that we didn’t send in the money and not because we thought it was a scam, always in life guys learn n to make your own decisions like in politics, religion, social issues and most importantly; your lives! May Your Higher Power Bless You!!!!!
Is it a scam?
I got a letter saying the samething except it had a lot more private info such as my scholarship info, SAT score and GPA to the dot. It also says it is free. So I am very confused and worried.
I did find a list of criteria in order to be invited. My son has struggled all through junior high. This was his 9th grade year and he pulled out an unweighted GPA of 3.58 with one honors class!! I dont care about the money! I care that my sons hard work was recognized! He’s so proud of that and no doubt will strive for even better next year. And btw we live in a small town. Maybe 3000 people and I have heard of no one else that recieved one, and trust me every mom in town would be all over Facebook and every car in the drop off sporting that sticker. If $60 isn’t worth a possible even $1000, or $5000 oh and not required.. how is that not a worthwhile investment. I’d pay 10 times that to be able to prove what he did was outstanding by more than just moms standards even if he wins zero scholarship. But if he is awarded even $500 that’s obviously worth it. Besides if this makes him strive for even better I wont be dependent on their scholarship money anyway. I have no doubt with sustained high academic performance winning scholarship wont be an issue. And if it gives him the pride and confidence to get their I’d pay $1060!! They do have criteria so instead of sitting down and researching for any possible negatives which so far has been investment versus value let them have there moment!! And my kid worked his butt off for that GPA so he earned that media recognition! One more thing to make him motivated, confident and proud! After his struggles hell yeah I’d pay $60 to have him recognized because he deserves it. I’m not buying him media attention hes getting the attention he should have but other wise eoukf would not and that Is a flaw with media. I’m aghast at some of the things I’ve heard! Am I the only one who cares more about what it does for my childs confident and dedication to do even better above what I may gain from it and whether its worth my measly $60 bucks. Shameful the day any recognition is judged based on what you stand to gain.
If you made it to here in the comments… ^^ wow that was pretty wild, right? The things you read on a college prep website XD
While recognizing ones achievements is fantastic, and doing so is up to the individual, I think the point of the article is merely to inform that paying the money will not benefit you as much as it first appears, at least not for certain. Have you ever considered that some may not have an extra $60 to spend on this? I’m sure struggling families have paid money that they did not have because they were under the notion that it would have a tremendous affect on a resume when it does not . You may think that the money is nothing, but you are completely ignorant to others problems. Not everyone is able to purchase recognition or payola for themselves, Andrea.
I don’t think it’s a scam it kinda sounds silly. Listen I am a rising junior and did a lot of deep research on this. Many people think it is a scam because they feel like everyone is getting it out of nowhere and so they start assuming. If you look on the website your school actually nominates you in order for you to be invited. That’s how they know your address. Come on people read the website. They don’t know you, your school, or address unless the school allows them too or else it’s crazy. Number two, it’s a private organization it’s not very exclusive and that’s where people get it wrong and miss the opportunity. So before you go around looking at everyone else’s opinion do a little more research yourself look at the website use common sense because it’s an actual program. Look at the YouTube channel. It’s a huge program. I almost rejected it when I heard people claiming it was a “scam” but these people did not actually take the time to look at it. Plus it’s a one time fee I know plenty of other programs that cost a fee. Also I watched their videos and they actually have conversations with a room full of children and they give out awards. They also have a college tours at the Ivy League!!!! On July 29 to August fourth!!! And you wonder why it costs money. I’m not missing this opportunity because now I know what this society is all about. People think it’s a scam because others are claiming it’s a scam.
Lots of deep research based on your 10th-grade education…?!?!. Nominated by your school? Find out who nominated you. Contact a college admissions office and ask what they think.
I know a young man in the eighth grade that has an intelligence ratio of 182 and has the social aptitude to go with that it and presents himself in a more dignified manner than most adults I see, so what makes you think that you or I can do a better job at researching it (the society) than she did, I’m 50 years old by the way and I don’t underestimate young people nowadays.
Just wanted to say im homeschooled never sat foot in a highschool, so how did they find me?
You have likely taken the PSAT, SAT, PLAN, or ACT recently and NSHSS has purchased the mailing list with your contact information.
yes, i completley really agree with you + I’m already a member
Your school nominates? Guess what, schools can nominate anyone without looking at accomplishments. Schools aren’t as ‘for the children’ as you think. If you search online, you’ll see teachers and even students talking about this. Schools mostly go for money and how the school looks, not the student’s accomplishments. They most likely just nominated everyone in the school without much thought, and that’s why a straight A student and a failing student both get the same invitations. I’ve checked, schools just give out names and addresses to any ‘society’. It isn’t restricted access schools carefully give out. Any scam can find a student’s name and address and send an invitation asking for money for some membership.
NSHSS clearly got my son’s name and address by buying it from the company that runs the ACT exam, not from his high school. I know because all the marketing materials that come from colleges have his name misspelled in the same weird way, which resulted from his ACT form getting messed up.
I agree with you a 100% . I am not letting no one on this site discourage me. Is sad that you all want do your on investigation you just go by hear say or what other people experienced. This is legit my daughter was nominated by 3 of her teachers and i took the letter to the counselor and had a conference with her teacher who nominated her. With me going through financial hardship the school paid for my daughte membership. This is not a scam. If you join any club at school there is a membership fee. And joining the National High school Honor Society at your child school you still have to pay a fee. Just because you never heard of it doesn’t mean its a scam. Maybe you need to ask yourself was that teacher who nominated your child being petty or making a joke of your child. People just go to the site and read or call the number they have posted. This program is also recognized by the governor of your state. Do your research people.
Angela,
If you and your daughter enjoy membership in NSHSS, great. If you actually receive any tangible benefits, I’d love to hear back from you.
The problem is that most of the teachers (and even counselors) have not done their research. The program name sounds impressive, but your teachers and counselor fail to understand that membership in NSNSS will NOT be viewed positively by anyone in higher education (colleges.)
NSHSS does not meet the technical definition of a scam because they actually provide the membership, but they cannot and will not deliver on the exclusivity or prestige they promise.
Megan
A friend of a friend whose child received an award letter from this organization asked me what it was; I had never heard of it and I went on line to learn something about it. In my mind, I was
thinking “Elitism…probably CIA”–naughty me! I had trouble finding exactly what the award was that the letter represented, but the first thing I found was a quoted passage from a speech the founder of this group gave in which he mentioned that students such as recognized by this award would be instrumental in carrying out Agenda 2030. Now, for anyone reading this who has not heard of that, I want to say that is huge cause for suspicion. If you haven’t heard of that, go to You Tube and have a look at any number of presentations describing Agenda 2030 (or Agenda 21). And after that, the more I saw the more dodgy this thing looked.
If I already paid for this, can I somehow cancel my membership? Because I also recently heard of NHS and I’m thinking it is a better organization. I’d like to be a part of NHS but I’m afraid that I can’t because of my current membership with NSHSS.
No need to cancel. You can join NHS if you meet the requirements at your school.
Megan
Hate to tell you but this is not a scam. I am currently a highschool student and I received one. And my guidance counselor told me it’s legitimate
I think you’re getting NSHSS with NHS (which is legitimate). NSHSS is a program, yes, but there are many other resources you can use to find scholarships and programs that don’t require you to pay a $75.00 fee. NHS is free and they are sent through your school.
My GPA was around a 2.5 when I got my letter so I knew something was fishy from the start also the fact it give you “lifetime membership” for paying proves it’s a scam. Most honors societys don’t give you a “lifetime” membership and require you to keep your grades up. It’s a scam I was no honors student in school but still got this.
Now I have trust issues 🙁
I received this letter as well. I ended up paying the fee and I bought a shirt, ropes, a pin, and a certificate on their website. In the end, I didn’t get what I paid for and lost my money. I do get offers about scholarships through them via email, but at this point, I wouldn’t even trust them.
What do you mean you didn’t get what you paid for?
We did do this for my daughter who is now a Junior at Oglethorpe University. It has worked out well for her. She gets $1000 per semester of scholarship money for being a member. Not sure if this is just for small liberal arts schools or what but it was well worth the $75 paid.
i am not smart when it comes to math i am going to be honest its my worst subject ever in all my school history i have great chemistry with the teachers its like after i meet them we have a bond and i hope if i choose this college that i have the same success as i have had in school English and history happen to be my favorite subjects and i have some experience as part of a NJROTC Unit here at Saint Stephens High school in Hickory North Carolina the NJROTC Unit here helps discipline and show u early military style and get a background of what u may do in the military.
Based on your lack of grammar – as well as many spelling errors – the point is proven that this is a scam and is sent to many students, some more qualified than others.
I accepted my invitation. Is there a way to get out of it if I get invited to another Honor Society?
I am VERY glad I was wary enough to do a Google search of this organization…thank you all for your input and opinions. My daughter, (a senior who has already gotten into her fist school of choice), received this invitation twice, thus far. I was thinking, ok…anything that can help with school costs. There are literally thousands of outside scholarships out there, with no cost to apply. There are also a bunch I’ve run into, that turn out to be “buy this…fill out this survey to get money”…etc. I am not wealthy. Of course looking into every possible way to make this more affordable. Any REAL input and suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!
They are just trying to get your $$
I paid for my sons membership in 2017, got a certificate with my name on it ( his mom). Complained,nothing was done, no new certificate no money back. Now in 2019, complained again. Still no money back. They are noe offering a new certificate. My son is half way through college. Its a scam. Dont waste your $
As Megan said, this isn’t technically a scam. But, it is not an exclusive club or organization.
Does the organization have activities, camps, get-togethers? Yes, and they may be beneficial. But they are not exclusive or show any level of achievement or honors.
Does the organization award scholarships? Yes. But is it worth it to pay the fee to join this organization just for a chance at a scholarship? That’s up to you. The fees that everyone pays to join the organization are used to pay these small scholarships.
If the organization was called “Bob’s Group of Really Smart People”, would you join?
BGRSP only costs $100 to join. They offer camps, conferences, and get-togethers that are really nice. BGRSP also gives away $1000-$5000 scholarships to some of it’s members.
I might join BGRSP for the conferences and the chance to get a small scholarship, but I wouldn’t put “Proud Member of BGRSP” on my college application or job resume.
You will also find, later in your career, the opportunity to join a “Who’s Who” publication.
You will receive this honor many times throughout your life.
You can be listed as a prestigious member of “Who’s Who”, for a small fee.
For this small fee, your personal information will be printed and published in this glorious tome. But only a few million people are given this chance.
Aw cool, I wanna join BGRSP. How do I?
I received a letter today and immediately threw it out. I failed 2 classes my sophomore year and barley passed my classes in freshman year coming out of a charter school. This is my Junior year and I’m returning to a regular High school and frankly if it’s really that prestigious and given to the people who have earned it why would they mail it to me, the person who failed chem, pre cal, and almost failed algebra and Physics? I wouldn’t pay to join some society that won’t help me in the long run, especially if it’s lying about how elite it is.
Anything that comes with a fake stamp on the envelope is garbage.
My son just got the letter that is mentioned. We got excited for a few minutes until I went on their webpage. My son does very well in his honors courses, so I thought this was legit. Shame on companies like this that make someone think they’re special to be disappointed. How do they get people’s information and addresses. I think personal information needs to be private. I’m sure it was my son’s private high school that leak our address. This is totally BS! I’m glad I read these blogs. You just saved many people from falling for a scam.
Annette,
I am a 10th grader and I just received my invitation, did you pay the fee? If not, why not? I am in desperate of answers, so please get back to me. Thank you.
Thank you for the information. I too know this is just a business. “Hey, we will print your name in a book if you will buy it!”
The problem is that students and parents are both vain and desperate when it comes to college admissions. Everyone wants to believe and try to impress. I told my daughter it was a scam, but showing her your page helped her see the truth.
My daughter just received this letter and to say I am upset and very disheartened would be an understatement. My daughter is in the 9th grade has struggled for years attempting to excel academically, including being bullied about being dumb. She worked really hard this year to get her grades to her current ABC status, so I have been trying to encourage her. When I saw this letter ( mind you I am a single mother of 4 and she was the only one that was “invited” ) …. we were all extremely excited and I was willing to pay anything for my baby to have this honor. Now I have to tell her it is all a scam! I truly am happy I checked before paying this money but I am definitely like the other mad parent by stating Shame on NSHSS for doing this…… I have no more words but I am definitely going to blast them on social media. Hopefully no one else will go through what we just went through.
I know what it feels like to have a teen who desperately needs some encouragement and external validation. I don’t think you need to tell your daughter the details about the program. Celebrate with her that her hard work has been recognized. Then move on. Don’t pay the money.
I don’t think you need to discourage her in order to skip the NSHSS money grab. (She probably wouldn’t know if you did pay the money…)
Megan
What a joke. They change the name a bit and send on fancy letterhead to make you think it’s real. I bet 2 to 3 out of every 10 pay the fee. I almost did and then realized it was a scam. They are preying on people’s pride and desire to be recognized. I think they should be sued
Back in high school, I received an invite to NSHSS. At the time I was a member of about 4 honors societies (which only required fees for a graduation cord or $5 membership dues) and did have high grades and awards. I got the invitation in the mail the summer before junior year, when I couldn’t consult a counselor or teacher about it. Every other honors society announces membership during the school year, and membership letters are given through teachers. Each honors society membership letter also specifies what merits allowed the student to be a member: for example, saying “Due to your high GPA in (insert subject(s)) and community service involvement…” In the letter from NSHSS, they only say that you’re chosen “due to your academic success…” Not specifying exactly what made you stand out and what the society values. (Yes I know there are GPA requirements listed on the website but still)
In addition, students aren’t allowed to wear NSHSS cords to graduation, as they weren’t given through the school. Members of NSHSS are able to purchase the graduation cords online (for about $30 I think?), IN ADDITION to the $95 fee of joining. Most honors societies include the cost of the cord in the membership dues. I’m not commenting on their legitimacy, just comparing them to other honors societies that I’ve been a member of. I’m not a member of NSHSS but have heard about it through those who are. Interpret this however you wish.
Great points!
Im going to be a senior this year. I recently got my ‘invite’ a few days ago and was curious as to if i should accept it. My family doesnt have the money to pay the fee, but the letter, or one of the other papers, said that they didnt want people to not be able to accept based on money and that there was an option for families to not have to pay it if they couldnt afford it-or something along the lines of that. I am curious as to if anyone knows if this aspect of it is legit. I may end up accepting it if it is?
My son received the letter today and, I must admit, at first it made me feel extremely proud that he was selected. Actually, at first, I thought that the organization was somehow affiliated with NHS. The letter looked official and even included my son’s HS’s “Educator of Distinction” (faculty) name, which I recognized.
I then allowed my brain to bring me back down to Earth and decided to do some research and found this website. So glad I did. I then did a little more research and found this article. It’s a little old but still worth reading if you are considering joining. https://amp.local10.com/education/high-school-honor-soceity-misleads-students
My son is a member of Mensa, has a 4.0 unweighted GPA, and scored a 1260 on his first try on the PSAT as a HS freshman. Therefore, I am not worried that he will excel without this “honor” by NSHSS. I just worry that others are being duped into paying the fee and receive nothing in return Instead of pursuing something else that can help them in the future.
Hello all!
I have gone through and read everyone’s responses, but it still has not helped me to make a decision regarding this organization. I am going into my senior year, and this is the second time that I am receiving an invitation to join. I do not think that everyone gets an invite (as some of you have mentioned), because no one else that I have spoken to has received the same letter in the mail as me. So, should I do it? Is it worth it? Is this not a scam? How beneficial is it, to those of you who have been a part of it already?
Thank you! Any response would help 🙂
Not beneficial.
Not worth your time or money.
Don’t do it.
We recd a letter from NSHSS. One of my sons ex teachers name was mentioned.
Is there some kind on nominating process from a teacher…where would they get their name
Don’t do it! Put the money towards SAT or ACT Prep Classes. My son (rising Junior) got the letter last week. In the letter they list the name of a faculty member from my son’s school that has the NSHSS Educator of Distinction. Well…..that faculty member has been gone for 3 years! That’s how you know this is not legit. It also says in the letter that your contact information has been provided by the College Board Student Search Service. In other words, NSHSS buys names from a database.
I just wanted to thank you. I am an incoming junior in highschool and recieved one of these letters. It seemed a bit off after I checked what was needed to become a member. My family is low on money so I had to do a back up check to see if it was really worth the money, thankfully I stumbled upon this article. Once thank you very much.
What I want to know is HOW they got my kids’ information? Does the school sell it?? Or is it from standardized testing companies like SAT/ACT?? Because I have a problem with that. In elementary school, one of the counselors gave my daughter’s information to a company like this and I was appalled! It is just pure marketing and the school should not be providing ANY information to anyone about your kids.
Thank you! I just checked the mail and I was suspicious that my child received a letter with no return address. When I saw the $75 ‘ entrance fee’ my skepticicism drove me to Google. This article was the first result and I am extremely thankful for the time and money saved by coming here.
Let me guess. You also have a Who’s Who in Business plaque hanging on your wall along with the book that everybody else paid $75 to get.
No “Who’s Who” here for all the same reasons!
can you unsubscribe for NSHSS?
Me and my dad joined it before we realized it was a scam. We already paid the $75. We are wondering if they will take anymore money from us?
I did the same mistake. Do you know if we can cancel the membership fee and get our money back???
one of the men who runs nshss lived across the street from me in milwaukee on daisy lane. that would be claes nobel. i thought he was s a complete phony.
Thank you so much for posting this. I actually am an accomplished student, so there was no smoking gun that this was a scam. I am going into my sophomore year. I am furious that they sent me this letter, especially since my family doesn’t have that much money. I hope the government does something about this.
NSHSS is a unique program that many people misunderstand the intended purpose of. It’s a program that offers clubs, resources, and conventions that give information and knowledge to college bound students and help them prepare for college. The membership fee, is where many parents and teens get frustrated and mark it as spammy. The membership fee is $75 and this money is gathered to help pay for the cost of the programs and operation, and it’s mostly collected to be divided and given out as scholarships. The likelihood of someone getting a scholarship from there is slim, because of the mass amount of members, but it does happen. Would I join the NSHSS? Personally, no, because of the membership fee, I’m a HS student paying for my own phone bill, my own car, gas, and college. $75 is just too much for me, but for most people it’s not much of a reach. So to summarize, it’s a organization that helps students, that requires a mandatory “donation” of $75, thus some people will receive much money back from the scholarship and most people will just be funding someone else’s. Why did they send me this in the mail? If you took the SAT or ACT and gave contact information and college selections, they’ll invite you. And yes, I think the lettering in the mail is very misleading but they’ve been doing that for awhile, it’s to make you feel prideful but it’s just an ordinary college readiness club that’s not elite in any way.
My mom and I JUST made the mistake of purchasing the membership fee before doing our research. Is there a way where we can cancel our membership fee and get our money back??
I would start by contacting NSHSS directly and asking for a refund. The faster you request it, the better.
Megan
Thank you for saving me $$. My daughter was accepted into the National Honor Society (NHS) and at first glance I thought it was from them. But the $$ made me suspicious. Plus the acronym is wrong. Thank you!
P.S. There are societies that have dues, like Sigma Theta Tau for nursing at university. But NHS does not. NHS is not NSHSS!!
I have received no less than three invites from NSHSS, and have thrown them all away. I had recently seen a few bumper stickers from them, as the sticker is sent with the invite. I decided to check and see what the deal is with this, and was rather entertained by this article. I had decided it was a scam upon first reading the letter, as it mentioned my being ‘one of the top students in my class’… I am homeschooled, and being first in my class of one isn’t a big deal. (I am technically also the worst in my class) Really, don’t pay the $75 as it is a waste of money, time and paper. Honestly, having the bumper sticker for a scam on the back or your car makes you look kind of silly. Just ignore them.
Right, I get all of this – but can I put the “I’m the Proud parent of…” bumper sticker on my car even if I don’t join?
NSHSS is not a scam, it’s just doesn’t have the clout or credibility as National Honor Society. We paid the $75 and received the materials. However, my daughter has several friends that have higher SAT’s and GPA’s, and none of them received an invitation. Now she’s embarrassed that she was nominated by the company administering the PSAT, not a teacher or anyone else with credentials. It was a lesson learned. We also looked at the colleges and universities attending the conference in DC in August and we were not impressed. Brian
Well I live in Georgia so Im going to stop by they office on Monday which will be July 29th 2019 today in Sunday July 28th 2019 and I’ll let you guys know.
Hello so what did you find out!
My daughter has received the letter in the mail and I keep getting emails encouraging her to join. I dont know if there is ever a “last day to join” because that so called day came and went AND I’m STILL getting emails trying to persuade me to have her join… per scam.. please do not waste your money!
Okay so I received the invitation last year. I knew many others who received the letter from my school, so it did not seem elusive from the beginning. Joining NHS is worth more than joining NSHSS because you actually get recognized for your participation in events. As for scholarships, there are many other programs (such as CollegePoint Match) that suggest legitimate big name scholarships. Their help is f r e e. Even on the Common App, as a QuestBridge College Prep Scholar, I’d get more recognition than being an NSHSS Scholar. So try looking for other organizations that can help for free and have good reps.
I asked multiple people in applying for college if the looked at it and if they thought I should put it on my application. They all said yes and even said Congrats for getting into NSHSS. I don know if somehow it magically changed to not a scam or it never was but I’m happy with NSHSS. To all the people who are going to say I got scammed ok fine whatever but it has personally helped not hurt me.
An Honor is an honor. Esteeming and celebrating high performance is what matters. NHS is a North American organization. It’s yesterday’s news. I am a global business professional. NSHSS is a global organization, and I feel they are onto something more than NHS. This is why I feel so many people want to get rid of NSHSS before they can launch. Count your blessings not your rejections. Celebrate your child’s honor, and open up their minds to more opportunities and venues…help them think outside the box. NHS is not the only way to be honored, and their membership May be free, but the activities offered to members are not.
I have worked in college admissions and nomination committees for service academies. The author of this write-up is influencing people towards believing NHS is really the only place your high school student should be proud to have been honored. If your child receives an honor, Celebrate it with them. If you choose not to pay the membership fee and participate, then do not. However, my child and I are both NHS members, and I got into a great college without NHS on my admissions packet. My daughter is a member of both NHS and NHSS, and she is proud of both of them.
Contrary to organizations and people who promote the National Honor Society regardless of the political selection practices their high school chapters (whom NHS does not really provide oversite) use to invite students to join, I do not promote NHS over other Honor societies.
An honor is an honor, and NHS does not outweigh other honor societies, because they do not regulate their chapters.
Do not let this author steal your child’s honor over a membership fee. If you do that, then think about the colleges you apply to, fraternities and sororities, and local clubs you yourself pay membership fees. NSHSS is an honor, and so is NHS!
Some people like to use every opportunity for research and to get into colleges, just because you have to pay $75 to join doesn’t mean it’s a scam. I got an award for my GPA and I didn’t have to do anything but have a 3.5, I didn’t have to pay to receive the award or anything. And on top of that they give pretty weighty scholarships. So personally I feel that it’s worth it because at least they keep in touch with you and let you know of what’s coming up, at my school and most college websites you have to search for the information.
My daughter received an acceptance letter, not an invitation, from honorsociety.org which is different from the National Society of High School Scholars. The honorsociety.org is for college students, a respectable and known organization, and most importantly, it is legit. However, I’m confused because my daughter is only in high school. Should I let her accept?