ComplaintsforThe National Society of High School Scholars
Need to file a complaint?
BBB is here to help. We'll guide you through the process.
Complaint Details
Note that complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. See details.
Initial Complaint
08/06/2024
- Complaint Type:
- Product Issues
- Status:
- Answered
I signed up for membership for my child with NSHSS on July 30, 2024. I asked for a refund on August 1, 2024, because the school advised they don't honor this program nor will my child be able to wear the medallion I purchased. I was told on yesterday August 5th a refund of $90 was sent to my account. My bank doesn't show any pending transactions. I was not refunded. WHAT A SCAMBusiness response
08/14/2024
Hi *****, As our published graduation policy states "We encourage you to check with the Graduation Coordinator at your school before purchasing any graduation merchandise to wear at graduation. If you need to return graduation items, it must be within thirty (30) days of purchase and in the same condition it was received for a refund or an exchange." This is also noted on the same page as the graduation regalia as a reminder prior to ordering since some schools are uniformed in terms of what they will allow students to wear during the graduation ceremonies. You accepted your son's invitation on July 30 and requested a refund on the evening of July 31; you were told that the refund would be processed within three (3) business days. Your refund for the one-time, lifetime membership fee of $90 was processed on August 5 (3 business days). You called on August 6 and requested a refund receipt in which you were emailed the same day, so there is closure there. We regret that your son wasn't able to wear his honor medallion but more importantly regret that he wasn't able to enjoy the lifetime benefits of his membership. We are so much more than our graduation regalia. Per the **** tracking number **********************. the honor medallion was delivered to your home. In order to receive a refund for the honor medallion of $15, please return the item in the condition it was delivered in for further processing. Attached is the refund transaction receipt that you were emailed, the **** tracking # for the order delivered, and our interactions with you since July 31.
Lastly, in terms of your scam statement, and at your convenience, please review this great and factual information about NSHSS and how our amazing members and families are enjoying their membership, ***************************************************************************. Wishing you all the Best,
Initial Complaint
07/13/2024
- Complaint Type:
- Product Issues
- Status:
- Answered
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
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 readBusiness 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 classSome 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
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
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
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
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
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.orgInitial Complaint
01/31/2023
- Complaint Type:
- Product Issues
- Status:
- Resolved
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
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*
*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. ↩
BBB Business Profiles may not be reproduced for sales or promotional purposes.
BBB Business Profiles are provided solely to assist you in exercising your own best judgment. BBB asks third parties who publish complaints, reviews and/or responses on this website to affirm that the information provided is accurate. However, BBB does not verify the accuracy of information provided by third parties, and does not guarantee the accuracy of any information in Business Profiles.
When considering complaint information, please take into account the company's size and volume of transactions, and understand that the nature of complaints and a firm's responses to them are often more important than the number of complaints.
BBB Business Profiles generally cover a three-year reporting period. BBB Business Profiles are subject to change at any time. If you choose to do business with this business, please let the business know that you contacted BBB for a BBB Business Profile.
As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business. Businesses are under no obligation to seek BBB accreditation, and some businesses are not accredited because they have not sought BBB accreditation.
Customer Reviews are not used in the calculation of BBB Rating
Contact Information
1930 N Druid Hills Rd NE
Brookhaven, GA 30319-6009
Business hours
Today,Closed
MMonday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
---|---|
TTuesday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
WWednesday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
ThThursday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
FFriday | 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
SaSaturday | Closed |
SuSunday | Closed |
Want a quote from this business?
Get a QuoteCustomer Complaints Summary
27 total complaints in the last 3 years.
7 complaints closed in the last 12 months.