While it's not a scam in the sense of outright fraud, it's often criticized for:
* High membership fees: The fees to join are significant, and the benefits offered rarely justify the cost.
* Misleading marketing: The organization's marketing materials often imply a higher level of prestige and recognition than it actually holds. It's not comparable to recognized academic honor societies.
* Lack of rigorous selection criteria: Membership is relatively easy to obtain, diminishing its value as a mark of academic achievement.
* Questionable benefits: The benefits claimed, such as scholarship opportunities and networking events, are often limited or not easily accessible.
In short, while NSHSS is a real entity, many see it as more of a for-profit organization that capitalizes on parents' and students' desires for academic recognition, rather than a prestigious academic honor society. Many college admissions officers don't consider NSHSS membership to be a significant factor in the application process. Consider the cost and benefits carefully before joining.