We’re committed to getting to know you and to finding out how your story will become a part of Calvin Seminary’s story.
The steps in the admissions process are important, but need not be frustrating. As you work through your application, please contact the admissions office if you have any questions. We are happy to help!
The Registrar’s Office, with oversight from the Admissions and Standards Committee, will examine the academic, professional and ministry background of each applicant. If it is determined that an applicant would benefit from further study in a particular area, a learning plan will be developed which could include specific seminary electives or additional courses from another academic institution.
Typically, we require a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from an accredited institution and a grade point average (GPA) of 2.67 (B-) or higher. Due to special circumstances, an applicant without a bachelor's degree may be considered, as is allowed by the Association of Theological Schools.
A strong liberal arts education provides an excellent foundation for graduate level theological education. A liberal arts education shapes well-rounded, intellectually and culturally astute graduates. Therefore, it is recommended that a candidate’s baccalaureate preparation consist of courses in the liberal arts, including English, philosophy, history, literature, social science and natural science.
To pursue a Master of Theology, a Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, Bachelor of Divinity, or an equivalent degree, with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (B), is required from an accredited institution. All applicants must show transcript evidence of at least two semesters each in Hebrew and Greek.
Applicants with concentrations in Old or New Testament must pass a language proficiency exam in the applicable language. Applicants with a concentration in Preaching must have a verbal interview with the Director of Admissions
For more information on the ThM Admissions Process, please see the ThM Handbook .
A Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Theology, or an equivalent degree, with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.3 (B+), is required from an accredited institution. All applicants must show transcript evidence that they know Hebrew, Greek, and a modern foreign language (preferably German, French, or Dutch). Applicants must also submit scores of the Graduate Record Examination and a research paper that demonstrates their ability to do theological research and analysis at an advanced level.
Additionally, an Autobiography (250–500 word autobiography, focusing on personal history, academic/professional background, and church/ministry involvement) and a Statement of Purpose (500 words describing your academic interests and vocational goals in pursuing a PhD at Calvin Seminary) are required.
For more information on the PhD admissions process, please see the PhD Handbook .
Typically, applicants to the DMin program must have an earned Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree or the equivalent of an MDiv from an accredited school. Applicants with a master’s degree in a ministry-related area other than an MDiv can be considered for admission, but must submit additional application materials. Applicants with a master’s degree in another area can be considered for admission, provided that the degree is a master's degree (or its equivalent) in an area related to one's ministry setting or vocational calling.
Significant prior ministry experience is required. Students must be actively serving in a ministry context while earning the DMin.
Calvin Seminary will consider the following in the character and ability of the applicants: a vibrantly lived faith, humble character, and teachable spirit will be sought through peer assessments and references; the ability to think, write, and interact with others in a manner that is professional, empathic, and sensitive/appreciative of cultural and theological diversity; and the ability to communicate ideas with clarity, theological precision, and a deep concern for praxis.
The Ecclesiastical Program for Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC)This program is designed for those who have earned their MDiv degree at a seminary other than Calvin, and desire to become candidates in the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA). It can be engaged in-residence or via distance learning. For more information, please visit the CRCNA candidacy website .
Certificate ProgramsOur certificate programs do not have prerequisites, and applicants of all education backgrounds are considered.