Depends on which campus you are going through recruitment. Some yes, some no. Some have upperclassman quota, some don't. Etc.
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KΔ ♥ AOT
"Sisterhood is not about being popular, its about developing character, forming bonds, and self-discovery. If after four years you can hold you head high, then absolutely your sorority is "tops"." - H2oot
I think it is harder for one reason. The Chapters already have a bunch of girls that are sophomores that went through as freshman. New members are the life blood of the chapter so typically chapters want to take younger members to replace those graduating. Having said that some Chapters do extend bids to sophomores and some don't. In my opinion at a competitive school going through as a sophomore you better have recs for every house, very good grades 3.5 or above and tons of leadership and campus activities. It might also be a plus to know girls in the Chapters.
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Alpha Chi Omega
Real. Strong. Women.