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Nazareth University Partners with Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society to develop a direct admission program with scholarships for high-achieving transfer students

Rochester, NY (06/25/2025) — Nazareth University is partnering with Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the international honor society, on PTK's first-ever direct-admissions experience to recognize the academic achievement of students at community colleges. This collaboration expands Nazareth's commitment to transfer student success by offering direct admission and scholarship opportunities to PTK members across the country.

For the past year, Nazareth's admissions team has been working behind the scenes to support the development of PTK's national Direct Admit initiative-one that grants eligible students early admission offers from four-year institutions that recognize their academic success. PTK membership requires a GPA of 3.5 or higher, and Nazareth is building on that distinction by offering guaranteed admission paired with significant scholarship support.

"Nazareth is in its second cycle of running an in-house direct admit program for transfer students, and we've already seen promising results," said Christie Smith, associate vice president of university admissions and enrollment. "Students are responding positively to the clarity and confidence this model provides. Our partnership with PTK will only strengthen our visibility and deepen trust among high-achieving transfer students."

Currently, 71% of PTK members transfer to a four-year college or university. With direct admissions, that number is expected to grow, as students receive proactive admissions offers from participating colleges without having to submit a traditional application.

"High-achieving community college students deserve the same admissions advantages often reserved for first-time freshmen - clear offers, merit-based financial aid, and a simplified process," said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa. "By launching direct admissions, we're not just connecting students to opportunity - we're delivering it."

This partnership underscores Nazareth's strategic focus on creating pathways for student success and reducing barriers in the transfer process. The university's continued investment in access, affordability, and seamless transitions makes it a standout destination for PTK scholars ready to take the next step in their educational journey.

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