Bama Rush 2025 Recap: Bid Day at the University of Alabama

Excitement swept through The University of Alabama yesterday as Bid Day 2025 brought a vibrant close to another record-breaking sorority recruitment week. 

This year, 2,590 potential new members (PNMs) from 47 states and eight countries embarked on a week-long journey through one of the nation’s largest Panhellenic recruitments.

At 10:30AM on August 17, anticipation filled Bryant-Denny Stadium as PNMs gathered for the moment they’d waited for all week—opening their bids to join one of UA’s 18 Panhellenic chapters.

Once the envelopes were in hand, the stadium erupted with cheers, tears and laughter. Minutes later, the new members sprinted down Sorority Row into the arms of their new sisters.

The Celebration

Bid Day at UA has become a full spectacle. New members spend the afternoon celebrating, taking photos and soaking in the excitement of their new chapter.

Many houses host bid day retreats later that evening, giving new members the chance to bond more closely. The night is typically an off-campus event designed to create connections and have fun. Active members even help the new additions pack and prepare for the festivities, ensuring the day feels seamless and welcoming.

The Recruitment Process

Bid Day is merely the grand finale of an extensive process that begins months in advance, with commitment from both the PNMs and the active members:

• May 1-July 16: Registration
  • PNMs complete an online registration form, submit a video, pay the registration fee and early move-in fee ($555 total).
• August 6-10: Work Week
  • Active members have a five-day period to prepare to recruit the PNMs—practicing conversations, organizing social media content and coordinating themed outfit days.
• August 9-10: Convocation and Open House
  • PNMs meet their Sigma Rho Chi groups led by disaffiliated Panhellenic members who guide them through the week. They also receive a walking tour of Sorority Row and learn about what to expect from each round.
• August 11-August 13: Philanthropy Round
  • PNMs visit up to twelve chapters, where they gain a glimpse into the sorority’s philanthropic work and financial expectations.
• August 14-15: Sisterhood Round
  • This round offers PNMs a deeper look at up to seven chapters, focusing on the values and friendships that shape each sorority’s culture.
• August 16: Preference Round
  • On this final round before Bid Day, PNMs attend up to two chapters and reflect about where they feel most at home.
• August 17: Bid Day
  • The long-awaited invitations are revealed at Bryant-Denny Stadium, followed by the dash to Sorority Row.

The Bigger Picture

For many, joining a sorority at Alabama is about becoming part of a legacy. With deep traditions, strong philanthropic efforts and opportunities for leadership, the Panhellenic experience shapes students both during their college years and beyond.

Bid Day 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter in thousands of students’ lives. For PNMs turned new members, it will be the start of friendships, experiences and memories that will last long after graduation.

Did you rush at Bama this year? Post pics of your Bid Day and tag us on Instagram, X, Facebook + LinkedIn.