Aug. 20, 2026 — The Society of Surgical Oncology (SSO) will adopt a four-tier international dues structure based on World Bank income classifications for the 2027 dues cycle and all foreseeable dues cycles. The change is intended to better align membership dues with regional economic conditions and support SSO’s strategic goal of expanding international engagement.
Additionally, SSO will implement a MERIT program for Global Partner Societies, creating a pathway to discounted membership rates. The MERIT program establishes clear performance and engagement metrics, creating a transparent and consistent process for determining partner society benefits. International student membership will remain a complimentary benefit for Global Partner Societies.
Active international members receive the following benefits:
- Discounted registration for the SSO Annual Meeting
- Global networking and collaboration opportunities
- Online access to the Annals of Surgical Oncology and SurgOnc Academy
- Discounted submissions to Surgical Oncology Insight
- Eligibility to serve on SSO committees
- Voting privileges within the society
- Use of the FSSO (Fellow of the Society of Surgical Oncology) designation
International Dues Structure
SSO international membership dues have remained unchanged since 2014 and consisted of two pricing tiers: high-income countries at $345 and middle- or low-income countries at $207. While this model provided a simplified framework for international membership, it no longer adequately reflects the economic diversity across global markets. To better align membership dues with regional economic conditions and support SSO’s strategic goal of expanding international engagement, SSO will adopt a four-tier international dues structure based on World Bank income classifications:
- High-income countries: $345
- Upper-middle-income countries: $260
- Lower-middle-income countries: $170
- Low-income countries: $85
The model is informed by a 2024 analysis of GDP PPP by country income classification. Using the current high-income country rate of $345 as the baseline, each tier was calculated proportionally to reflect relative economic capacity while maintaining a consistent and transparent pricing methodology.
The revised structure creates a more equitable framework for international members, improves accessibility in emerging markets and establishes a scalable dues model that can accommodate future growth in SSO’s global membership community.
MERIT Program Background and Process
By linking membership discounts for entire societies to measurable levels of collaboration and engagement, SSO hopes to strengthen relationships with international partner societies, encourage active participation in SSO programs and initiatives, and enhance the overall value of membership.
“With the continuous expansion of our Global Partner Society partnerships, the MERIT program will offer a structured pathway to provide equitable growth opportunities for our current and future partners,” said Gabrielle van Ramshorst, chair, and Cherif Boutros, vice chair, of the SSO International Committee.
Contact:
Amanda Firlit, Senior Program Manager, Governance and Global, Society of Surgical Oncology