Membership in Phi Beta Kappa is by invitation only. Students may not apply. New members are selected by a faculty committee of Phi Beta Kappa members. Membership is based on high academic achievement in the liberal arts and sciences (defined below), as well as the overall breadth and quality of courses taken. Specific criteria for membership are listed below. However, meeting the minimum qualifications for membership does not assure election to membership. In fact, each year many students meet all of the eligibility criteria but are not elected to membership.

High scholarship: Graduating seniors elected to Phi Beta Kappa typically have a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher; juniors typically have a GPA of 3.75.  However, no one is elected to Phi Beta Kappa solely on the basis of GPA.

Coursework in the liberal arts and sciences:  Candidates must have completed a broad and rigorous course of study in the liberal arts and sciences. The term “liberal arts and sciences” refers to courses designed principally for knowledge, understanding, or appreciation of the natural and social world in which we live.  The liberal arts and sciences include most courses in the humanities, social sciences, biological sciences, and the physical sciences. Excluded are certain practical courses that develop skills or vocational techniques, such as some courses in business, engineering, computer sciences, studio art and applied music. In general, primary consideration is given to the breadth and variety of courses taken outside the student's major and beyond the campus general education requirements.

Residency requirements:  Students must have completed at least 6 quarters of work in residence at UCI.  This residency requirement also applies to transfer and second baccalaureate students.

Good character:  All UCI students are assumed to be of good character unless there is evidence of academic dishonesty.  In accordance with UCI policy, students with recorded evidence of academic dishonesty may be excluded from consideration for academic honors at graduation, including election to Phi Beta Kappa.