[MysticCat]

Interesting. I've never heard the term used that way, but that certainly doesn't mean it hasn't been.

And I've certainly heard of pledges being held over rather than let go because of grades. But (in my experience), when that happens, the pledge remains an active pledge and is expected to make grades and initiate the next semester. He says he's been inactive for a year.

And I did consider the possibility that the chapter is doing this without national knowledge or approval. That's one reason I suggested talking to someone reliable. Of course, it's possible that he could become active as a pledge again and all would go well. But it also seems possible that if this isn't consistent with national policies, then a problem may arise when paperwork is reviewed. I just don't want him to be taken by surprise if there is a problem, or think he's still bound to the fraternity if he's really not and would like to rush other fraternities.