Fraternities can bring in millions of dollars. Here's where all that money comes from — and goes.
Fraternities attract students through campus social life and alumni connections, while also sometimes drawing controversy. Public tax records provide an incomplete picture of the finances of large national organizations.
Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity Inc. reported $10.6 million in revenue for fiscal 2025 and finished the year with $29.4 million in net assets, according to its filings.
Member dues are often a dependable income source for local chapters. Amounts and spending differ by campus, and universities may leave dues-setting and collection to the organizations themselves.
National groups can also receive donations, including gifts from alumni. Sigma Alpha Epsilon’s tax-exempt entity reported $2.82 million in contributions for the fiscal year ending June 2025, about 29.4% of its $9.61 million in revenue.
Fraternity and sorority houses can occupy valuable properties near campuses. Tax filings reveal some income and assets, but do not fully explain how money is handled within chapters and national organizations.
Key points
- Sigma Phi Epsilon reported $10.6 million in fiscal 2025 revenue and $29.4 million in net assets.
- Local chapter dues and alumni donations are among the sources of fraternity income.
- Public tax filings provide only a partial account of Greek organizations’ finances.