what is cob for sororities

2 min read 10-01-2025

Meta Description: Curious about COB in the sorority world? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about Continuous Open Bidding, including timelines, the process, and FAQs. Discover how COB differs from traditional recruitment and what to expect if you participate.

What Does COB Mean in Sororities?

COB stands for Continuous Open Bidding. It's a recruitment process used by some sororities to allow potential new members (PNMs) to join throughout the year, rather than only during a formal rush period. Unlike traditional sorority recruitment, which typically occurs once or twice a year, COB offers a more flexible and ongoing opportunity for women to find their sorority home.

How Does Continuous Open Bidding Work?

The specific process varies between sororities and chapters, but generally, COB involves the following steps:

Inquiry: Potential new members typically express interest through the sorority's website or social media.
Initial Contact: The sorority chapter may reach out to the PNM to schedule an informal meeting or conversation.
Chapter Events: PNMs may be invited to attend chapter events or meetings to learn more about the sisterhood.
Member Interaction: PNMs will have opportunities to interact with current members to learn about the sorority's values and activities.
Formal Bid: If the PNM and the chapter mutually agree, a formal bid may be extended, leading to membership.

This differs from traditional recruitment, which usually involves a more structured and formal process.

COB vs. Traditional Sorority Recruitment: Key Differences

Feature	Continuous Open Bidding (COB)	Traditional Sorority Recruitment
Timing	Ongoing throughout the year	Specific timeframe (usually fall or spring)
Process	More informal and flexible	Structured with multiple rounds and events
PNM Number	Smaller groups of PNMs involved	Larger groups of PNMs participate simultaneously
Exclusivity	Offers ongoing opportunities for membership	More competitive, limited spots available during rush period

Advantages and Disadvantages of COB

Advantages:

Flexibility: Allows women to join at any point throughout the year.
Less Pressure: May be less intense and overwhelming than traditional recruitment.
Personal Attention: PNMs often receive more individualized attention from members.
Increased Membership Opportunities: Expands opportunities for women who were unable to participate in formal recruitment.

Disadvantages:

Less Structure: May lack the structured events and bonding experiences of traditional recruitment.
Smaller Group Dynamics: PNMs joining via COB may have a smaller cohort of pledges compared to those joining through traditional recruitment.
Varied Integration: May present more challenges for integration into the existing sorority structure.

Frequently Asked Questions about COB

Q: Is COB less competitive than traditional recruitment?

A: It can be, but it's not guaranteed. The competitiveness depends on the specific sorority and chapter.

Q: Can I join a sorority if I missed formal recruitment?

A: Yes, COB offers an opportunity for women who weren't able to participate in formal recruitment.

Q: How do I find out if a sorority chapter uses COB?

A: Check the sorority's website or contact the chapter directly.

Q: What if I'm not accepted through COB?

A: If not accepted, it is suggested to try formal recruitment the next round or explore other campus organizations.

Conclusion: Embracing the Flexibility of COB

Continuous Open Bidding offers a valuable alternative to the traditional sorority recruitment process. Whether it's the right choice for you depends on your individual preferences and circumstances. By understanding the process, its advantages, and disadvantages, you can determine if COB is the ideal pathway to find your sorority home. Remember to research chapters that offer COB and reach out to learn more about their specific processes.