How to Join

PTK Invitation Letter

To join, you must receive an invitation from the Pi Chi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. If you have already received an invitation letter, you can .  

If you have questions about your eligibility and would like to join, contact MCC's PTK advisors (mccptk@mclennan.edu).

Member Eligibility 

To be eligible for PTK membership, you must have:

  • minimum of 12 hours completed toward an Associate and a 3.25 on a 4.0 scale
  • minimum of 6 hours completed toward a Certificate and a 3.25 on a 4.0 scale
  • minimum of 12 hours completed toward a Bachelor's and a 3.25 on a 4.0 scale

adhere to the school conduct code, and possess recognized qualities of citizenship. Grades for the courses completed at other institutions will be considered when determining membership eligibility.

*Pay a one-time membership fee of 89$ that helps with operating costs of Pi Chi.

Active Member in Good Standing

An active PTK member in good standing is a student who has been duly initiated into the Society, maintains the standards required for good standing, and is currently enrolled at the institution where the student's member record is located.

PTK members must maintain a cumulative institutional GPA of 3.25 to remain in good standing. Failure to maintain the required GPA will result in the member being removed from good standing as stated in the Phi Theta Kappa Constitution and Bylaws, Chapter 1, Section 3. Failure to meet good standing requirements as stated in the PTK Bylaws will cause membership and all membership privileges to be revoked.

Provisional Member

A provisional member of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society is a student who, in the opinion of the local chapter, has shown an active interest in the affairs of the Society and who serves the Society in some special capacity, but who does not meet the full requirements for active membership in the Society. A provisional member will not have the right to vote, hold office, or represent the chapter at meetings of the Society.

Alumni Member

An alumnus/alumna member is a former active member of the Society who is no longer enrolled at the institution where the student’s member record is located.

Honorary Member

An individual must meet eligibility requirements as stated in Article IV, Section 1D of the PTK Constitution and Bylaws.

An honorary member is a person who, in the opinion of the Society or of the local chapter, has rendered distinguished service. International honorary membership will be conferred at the discretion of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Board of Directors, and local honorary membership will be conferred at the discretion of the local chapter.
(Article IV. Membership in the Society, Section 1. Types of Membership, D. Honorary Members)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I received an invitation. Do I have to join? A: No, membership is voluntary. However, PTK is a prestigious honor that offers significant benefits, and we strongly encourage eligible students to join.

Q: Can I join if I'm a part-time student? A: Yes, as long as you have completed at least 12 credit hours of work toward a degree or 6 credit hours toward a certificate with a 3.25 GPA or higher.

Q: Is membership for one year or lifetime? A: Phi Theta Kappa membership is for life. You pay one membership fee and remain a member forever.

Q: What if I transfer to a four-year college? A: Your PTK membership transfers with you and continues to provide benefits, including transfer scholarships and recognition.

Q: I can't afford the membership fee. Are there options? A: Yes, limited financial assistance may be available. Please contact our chapter advisors confidentially to discuss options.

Q: What's the time commitment? A: This varies based on your level of involvement. At a minimum, we ask members to attend monthly meetings (1 hour) and participate in a few chapter events per semester.

Q: Can I join if I already graduated? A: If you were eligible while enrolled but didn't join, contact the chapter advisors to discuss late membership options.

Ready to Join?

If you've received an invitation, complete your application by the deadline indicated in your invitation letter.

Haven't received an invitation, but think you're eligible? Contact our chapter advisors to verify your eligibility. Email: mccptk@mclennan.edu