ComplaintsforThe National Society of High School Scholars

• Initial Complaint

  07/13/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  National Society of High School Honors sent me a letter informing me that my daughter was invited to become a member because of her good grades. By becoming a member she could have access to scholorships etc.I emailed the school counselor and she confirmed that this was a scam, however, by that time I had already paid. I would like a refund and to warn other parents.

  

  Business response

  07/17/2024

  Dear ****************,

  Thank you for giving me an opportunity to speak to you further regarding your complaint.  Our goal is to always provide clarity to clear up any **** of ********* as it relates to the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), our mission and commitment to our members and families.

  As requested, the refund for the one-time, lifetime membership fee has been processed and I've attached the refund transaction receipt for your records.  Should you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to me directly.

  Wishing you and Londyn all the very Best,

  **************************

  Director of Member Services

  ************

  www.nshss.org

• Initial Complaint

  06/16/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  This company is not real It made of manipulation and deceit It is not at all what it is saying it is Many people have showed me online of complaints the more I read the more I know its a scam I want my money back This is not the honor society and not recognized by any one I should hope people find this and read

  

  Business response

  06/18/2024

  Dear Ms. **************** attached documents reflect the fact that we had an interaction with you via email on June 17 about a refund and we shared with you what the published refund policy is.  You called us today, June 18 and your refund was processed for the full amount of $111.00 ($90 one-time, lifetime membership fee and the $21 College Admissions book that you haven't returned yet), although you're only requesting a refund for the $90. So, there has been closure since you called today, June 18, 2024.

  NSHSS was established in 2002 by *************************, member of the Nobel Prize family,and *********************.   NSHSS and its growing number of highly respected partners such as the *************************** ****** Centers for Disease Control (CDC), U.S. **************** College Advisor and ************************************ (to name a few) have been committed to supporting the academic advancement of young people as they transition from high school to college to career- Please see a complete list of our government, educational, corporate and non-profit partners on our website at nshss.org, but these reputable partners would not be associated with NSHSS if we weren't a legitimate organization. 
  
  Scholars are nominated by Educators or recommended by our educational partners if they meet at least one of our eight academic criteria as follows:
  3.5 Cumulative GPA (4.0 Scale) or higher (or equivalent such as 88 on a 100-point scale)
  * 1280 SAT score or higher
  * 1150 PSAT score or higher 
  * *************** higher
  * Score 4 or higher on any AP exam
  * Total combined IB test scores of 36 or higher
  * IGCSE Grade A or higher
  * Top 10% rank in class
  

  Some of the benefits of the lifetime membership are:
  
  * More than $2.5 million in scholarship opportunities
  * Member events and college fairs at our in-person member events
  * Discounts on test prep, resume building, and tutoring services
  * Leadership programs and service opportunities
  * Free webinars and virtual events
  * Study abroad opportunities, internships and much more
  
  There is a one-time, lifetime membership fee of $90 which goes towards the cost of member communications, technology support, and member dashboard maintenance; we do extend fee waivers to those families that experience financial hardships.  Please visit our website at www.nshss.org for further information about our distinguished, academic honor society.  *******'s membership has been disabled, and we truly wish him all the best throughout his academic journey and beyond!

  Warm Regards,

  **************************/Director, Member Services

• Initial Complaint

  04/29/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  On febuary 29 i paid this company for a membership and some merchandise. They refunded me the member ship and overcharged me for shipping. They returned on shipping charge but have not refunded the money for the stoles and the two lions which is 45 dollars. They keep saying they have and to talk to my bank. I even sent them my bank statement showing the 8 dollar refund. They even stated that they got my merchandise for 2 weeks before even refunding the 8 dollars. They keep telling me they refunded it and tell me to call my bank. I need help to get my money back.

  

  Business response

  05/03/2024

  Hi ******,

  Unfortunately, we couldn't have a conversation to review the proof that the refunds have been properly issued - before you submitted this complaint, there was closure.  The appropriate credits have settled in our system and your account should reflect that.  I offered to be on the phone with you to ensure your bank recognized the same, but you wouldn't allow that, nor would you allow me to speak without yelling.  This case has been closed and the account for ***** has been disabled and there will be no further communications regarding this matter.  We wish you all the very best!

  Best Regards,

  **************************

  Director, Member Services

  Attachments include all logged interactions we've encountered, and the transactions (purchases) and refunds issued.

• Initial Complaint

  03/14/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  This organization exists to create confusion. I thought it was The National Honor Society, which is reputable organization that is useful for students. And it worked. It wasnt until after I paid and spoke to a school counselor that I realized it was not the same organization. Upon examination, this organization does nothing to help students. Most scholarships did not pertain to my son and we due the day we paid. They appear to exist to prey upon the parents of students preparing to enter college and students that have worked hard for their academic achievements and are trying to work towards scholarships without giving any benefits.

  

  Business response

  03/15/2024

  Good afternoon ************,

  Per my voicemail and follow-up email, as attached, please give myself a call so we can resolve this issue for you and to your satisfaction.  Per the attached and published refund policy and as noted on our BBB profile, all requests for a refund must be addressed with us directly.  We haven't had an interaction with you since ******* became a lifetime member of NSHSS!!  I would also like the opportunity to clear up any confusion based upon your complaint since you haven't shared an experience with NSHSS since ******* recently became a member on March 13, 2024.  I look forward to speaking with you so we can move forward with understanding and closure.  Thanks so much!

  **************************

  ************

  www.nshss.org

• Initial Complaint

  03/11/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I believed this institution would be helpful and believed it to be one that was recognized by the school. However, that is not the case and the membership fee and merchandise was paid. I believed I could not receive a refund for the purchases as its not listed in the website from my knowledge. I did not receive the merchandise until March 11, 2024 due to the wrong address being used. I believed I had to return the item with part of the money that was spent, but reading the cases of others I see a full refund could be given. I would like to receive a full refund due to the vague information about the institution.

  

  Business response

  03/15/2024

  Hi *** and *******,

  Per my voicemail and the attached log of interactions we've had with ***, once he realized he entered the wrong mailing address, he reached out to us on 11/30/23.  We asked to confirm the mailing address again, but no response until you all followed up on March 5, 2024.  The order has been confirmed as shipped and received per **** tracking - *********************************************************************************; Additionally, the NSHSS Refund/Exchange policy is attached as listed on our website.  It is also listed on our BBB business profile.  You all reached out to us on March 5, and we haven't had another interaction because the order did deliver successfully.  I look forward to you returning my call to assist you further and for closure to this complaint at ************, Monday-Friday, 8a-5p EST.

  All the Best,

  **************************

  www.nshss.org

  Customer response

  03/15/2024

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *****************

• Initial Complaint

  10/10/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  On 06/27/23 I accepted an invitation to join this honors society on behalf of my son *********************** thinking this was the legitimate and widely recognized National Honors Society. The invitation had the school name printed on it as though they were affiliated with the invitation. I have recently been informed that this is not a recognizable organization by the school and that the additional purchased graduation accessories may not be worn. I am requesting a refund of the membership fee of and the $30 spent on the accessories. The company sends these invites out over the summer when school is out and by the time school resumes you are outside of the refund window listed on their site.

  

  Business response

  10/11/2023

  ***************,

  Thank you for allowing  me to share more information about the National  Society of High  School  Scholars and the lifetime benefits of the same.  I also appreciate you for allowing me to clear up any confusion you felt about the NSHSS membership.  As requested, I've processed your refund, and have attached it for your review.  Again, if your son is ever interested in reinstating his membership, we will be glad to welcome him back.  We wish him all the best throughout his academic journey and beyond!!

  Best Regards,

  **************************

  NSHSS/Director, Member Services

   

  Customer response

  10/11/2023

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************

• Initial Complaint

  07/20/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  This organization exists to create confusion. I thought it was The National Honor Society, which is reputable organization that is useful for students. And it worked. It wasnt until after I paid that I realized it was not the same organization. Upon examination, this organization does nothing to help students and the website is out of date (copyright 2019). This organization accepted payment and then there wasnt even so much as confirmation or an email receipt. They appear to exist to prey upon the parents of students preparing to enter college.

  

  Business response

  07/24/2023

  Good Afternoon, *******,
  
  In response to BBB Complaint ID #********, and per your request,Im attaching the refund transaction receipt for the one-time, lifetime membership fee of $90 for ********* 
  
  I tried to call you again today to answer any clarifying questions, but we acknowledged each other by leaving voicemails and Ive fulfilled your request.  I also want to add that our website is updated on all pages with a copyright of 2023; however,we are in the process of updating the join online acceptance page for membership, so that is an initiative thats underway.  Our website is very credible and resourceful with the most updated information as it relates to our scholarship offerings,partners, educators, upcoming member events and Free webinars, etc. so the content is very current.
  
  As an academic organization, we continue to provide clarity around who we are which is why we spell out our name to avoid confusion. There are multiple honor societies available to students and in the FAQs on our website, www.nshss.org, we address how we are different than *** since we have members that are in both.  Should you have any further questions or would like to have a conversation, please reach out to me at any time.  We truly wish **** all the best throughout her academic journey and beyond.
  
  Lastly, I regret that we didnt have a previous interaction with you before submitting your claim to the BBB.  All refunds are processed through NSHSS as noted on our business profile, but we didnt have that opportunity.  With the accreditation that we have with the BBB, my goal is to ALWAYS attempt to have a conversation so youre clear going forward and Ive provided some clarity to the confusion you experienced.  From the sound of your voicemail,it seems as though we can provide closure to this complaint.  I appreciate your attention and time.
  
  All the Best,
  
  **************************
  Director, Member Services
  O: **************************
  www.nshss.org
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  01/31/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  This company uses my name -- without my permission -- to lure students into payment. I want this company to stop using my name in any correspondence. Thank you.

  

  Business response

  02/01/2023

  ******************,

  You were noted as an Educator of Distinction by NSHSS in September of 2016 when one of your students, *****************, nominated you for being an outstanding teacher. 
  
  As part of our initiative to honor and recognize Educators of Distinction,?a welcome email is sent to the address provided by the nominating student, followed by an?official NSHSS Welcome Kit?that includes a press release, welcome letter, official NSHSS Educator of Distinction Certificate, NSHSS Educator of Distinction bumper sticker, and materials that describe the benefits now available to you as an Educator of Distinction. 
  
  Our invitation letter to students at your high school would have only noted that you are considered an Educator of Distinction by NSHSS, sharing that information with prospective members. We are proud of all of our educators! 
  
  As of now, weve removed your name from being used in invitations to students and disabled your account.? However, we hope that you will consider learning more about NSHSS and possibly re-engaging. 
  
  NSHSS membership is for a lifetime, and the one-time fee allows members to receive regular communication about hundreds of scholarship opportunities, webinars and virtual events, discounts to partner programs, and join a community of more than 2 million like-minded members. 
  
  NSHSS and its partners award more than $2 million in scholarships annually to our members and connect high-achieving scholars with colleges and universities around the globe.? 
  
  Additionally, NSHSS members can participate in ************ abroad and experiential learning opportunities and benefit from a host of partner offers. 
  
  Students are invited to join NSHSS based on their outstanding academic achievements.? 
  Each student must meet at least one of the criteria below: 
  3.5 Cumulative GPA (4.0 Scale) or higher (or equivalent such as 88 on a 100-point scale) 
  1280 SAT score or higher 
  1150 PSAT score or higher? 
  26 ACT score or higher 
  Score 4 or higher on any AP exam 
  Total combined IB test scores of 36 or higher 
  IGCSE Grade A or higher 
  Top 10% rank in class 
  
  NSHSS is committed to providing equitable access to educational opportunities for all, including students from communities that have historically been excluded from those conversations. We are proud to offer full or partial fee waivers to students from families who are experiencing financial hardships. You can read more?on our website at **************************************************.
  
  Educators like yourself may qualify for a?variety of grants to further their professional pursuits and add resources to their classrooms, including the?********************* Educator of the Year Award,?which is open until October 1, please review further at ********************************************************. Please look at the grants open to educators on our website and let us know if you have any questions by calling ****** Services at ************, M-F, 8a-5p EST.

  All the Best,

  **************************

  Director, ****** Services

  Customer response

  02/01/2023

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ***********************

• Initial Complaint

  01/05/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Sales and Advertising Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I am being told by my daughters school that this was a scam and she cannot wear any of the cords, medallions and stoles I bought for graduation. I feel mislead and disappointed that they would do this to high school students. I paid a total of $128.00 and would like a refund. We haven't found anything on your website helpful in getting any type of scholarships and now I'm not even able to log in anymore.

  

  Business response

  01/09/2023

  Hello ****************,

  On September 26, 2022, you contacted NSHSS requesting login information for your daughter, and we responded right away.  The member and parent emails have to be different which a representative shared with via chat on our website and you responded favorably.  After receiving this complaint, I called you on January 6, with more information about the society and to share that on September 26 you changed the email address to reflect a combination of your and ******** which is the reason why you couldn't log in - it has to be one or the other as shared on September 26.  I left you a voicemail on January 6 and followed up via email, encouraging you to give me a call directly so I can answer any clarifying questions for you and to clear up any confusion.  In the meantime, I corrected the email addresses and sent you both another welcome email confirming the change.

  I attempted to reach out again today, January 9, 2023, and it automatically went to voicemail.  My goal is to always address complaints in a very direct, swift and fair manner which starts with a conversation.  As mentioned in my voicemail and email, I will proceed with issuing a refund for the graduation regalia, but you can keep it in your possession.  Per our published refund policy and as noted on the NSHSS BBB profile, refunds must be requested directly.  Unfortunately, you didn't give us an opportunity to address any concerns you've had, and you haven't returned my phone calls or emails so I'm responding to this complaint for closure.

  I have issued the refund for the graduation gear, as attached, but the lifetime membership is still intact, as it's beyond the sixty (60) days to request a refund - ****** became a member on July 17, 2022.  You can cancel ******** lifetime membership at any time, but I'm hopeful she will continue her membership and start applying for scholarships per the eligibility requirements, apply for the leadership programs for further growth and development and participate in the Free relevant and resourceful webinars.  NSHSS' goal is to always provide enriching programs and resources to assist with the transition from high school, college and career.

  You have my contact information, and I would still love the opportunity to have a conversation with you.

  Wishing you and ****** all the very Best,

  **************************

   

  *Attachment includes the refund transaction receipt for $45*

   

• Initial Complaint

  12/06/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  NSHSS sent my daughter fake info for their program and thought this was through her school and it wasnt. I paid ***** so she can be apart of this honors program & assuming she could were her cords for her high school graduation in May 2023. I would like my money back . I pay for this a few months ago. Also, paid ***** to get the honors cords as well. Would like my ***** back. My daughters name is ***************************** . This is unbelievable. *********************

  

  Business response

  12/08/2022

  Hi ************,

  Once I received your BBB complaint on December 6, I called you directly and introduced myself and you requested that I call you back at Noon (EST).  I called you back as requested to share more information about NSHSS and clear up any confusion in an effort to resolve this in a swift and fair manner, but I had to leave you a voicemail.  I followed up my voicemail with an email with great, credible information about NSHSS and how we are changing our active members and families lives with enriching programs, Free and relevant webinars and member events along with the scholarship and leadership opportunities.  At the same time, I encouraged you to return my phone call for a conversation.  As of today, December 8, I haven't heard from you, so I have disabled your daughter's membership and have issued the refund for $98, which I've emailed you and attached the refund transaction receipt for your records, and to this complaint for closure.  We truly wish you and Aalyah all the best going forward.

  Best Regards,

  **************************

  Director, Member Services

  ************

  www.nshss.org

*Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business. ↩