Phi Theta Kappa Guistwhite Scholarship
Offered by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
About This Scholarship
The Guistwhite Scholarship is Phi Theta Kappa's own flagship transfer award, paying up to $5,000 to community college members transferring to a four-year institution. It is named for Dr. Jack Guistwhite, who with his wife Margaret established the first PTK transfer scholarship program, and it remains the society's marquee recognition for transfer-bound members.
Applications run through the single PTK Scholarship Application, due December 1, 2026, for this cycle. One application puts members in consideration for the Guistwhite alongside a long list of other December-deadline PTK programs, so the effective value of the application is well beyond the single award.
Candidates need a 3.5 GPA on recent coursework, 45 or more semester credits completed by December, and a clean disciplinary record, with full-time enrollment planned at a regionally accredited four-year college. For high-achieving community college students, the December PTK application is one of the highest-leverage hours they can spend.
Eligibility
- Phi Theta Kappa member in good standing (membership is by invitation at community colleges; one-time fee typically $60-$90 depending on chapter)
- Currently enrolled in 6 or more semester credits of associate degree coursework through December
- 45 or more semester credits completed by December
- 3.50 or higher GPA on coursework completed in the last 5 years
- Intent to transfer to a regionally accredited four-year college and attend full time
- Academic record free from suspension, probation, or other disciplinary actions
How To Apply
- Confirm PTK membership in good standing through your chapter
- Complete the single PTK Scholarship Application at ptk.org (covers the Guistwhite and other December-cycle awards)
- Submit by December 1, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Guistwhite Scholarship worth?
Up to $5,000, applied toward your bachelor's degree after transferring from community college.
Do I apply separately for each PTK scholarship?
No — the single PTK Scholarship Application due December 1, 2026, covers the Guistwhite along with more than a dozen other PTK programs for that cycle.
What are the core requirements?
PTK membership in good standing, 45+ semester credits by December, a 3.5+ GPA on the last five years of coursework, and plans to transfer full time to a regionally accredited four-year school.