There are three steps that need to be completed in order to become a chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon:
An interest group of at least 20 men must petition and obtain colony status.
The colony must fulfill all chartering requirements.
The colony must petition the Fraternity for recognition as a chapter in good standing.
When the petition is approved, a charter is granted and the colony becomes an official chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity with all the privileges, rights and obligations thereof.