[violetpretty]

Pref parties are the last round of formal recruitment. Chapters will usually have a semi-ritual-like ceremony telling sotries about their sisterhood, sing songs, etc. and show you why the chapter means so much to the members.

No, it is not so chapters can eliminate more people. Chapters do not eliminate PNMs after pref parties during formal recruitment. If you were invited to pref, you are on the bid list somewhere. Pref is really more about the chapter trying to impress you and get you to rank them #1. Plus, it's another chance to narrow your focus and give PNMs and actives another round to gain impressions of each other to find the best fit.