Step by Step Application Process

The following is an overview of the application process for M.Div., M.A., M.S.M, Certificate and non-degree students.

Complete application information can be found in the academic catalog. If you have any questions, please e-mail us!

Before You Apply | Application | After You Apply

Prerequisites

• Bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, form a regionally accredited college or university.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0+ on a 4.0 scale (However, the admissions committee does consider factors other than academic record.)
• Greek -- basic introductory course plus a course in reading New Testament literature. Many students choose to complete their Greek requirements at Luther the summer before beginning seminary.
  
  For additional information on prerequisites, see the academic catalog.

Personal Qualifications

God calls many different types of people to lead the church. The following demonstrate readiness for theological study:

• Commitment to Christ, the church, and the ministry of God's word
• Academic ability to read and hear with discernment
• Ability to write with clarity and precision
• Personal and relational health, integrity, consideration of others, and physical and emotional fitness
• Potential to lead, inspire and relate positively with people

Complete application information is found in the academic catalog.
 

1. Application Form (for M.Div, M.A. & M.S.M.)

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is not required for admission to Master of Divinity, Master of Arts or Master of Sacred Music degree programs. Download forms or apply online here.

2. Transcripts -- official transcripts from your colleges or universities.

3. Recommendations -- three total from a pastor, teacher and other non-family person. You may request a recommendation via e-mail or download a copy of the form here.

4. Autobiography - Faith Statement -- A three- to five-page essay on the significant events and people in your life that have nourished faith in Christ, given a sense of God's call, and brought you to apply for seminary admission. This should include:

• a description of the your present relationship to the church

• a brief self-assessment of strengths and limitations as a candidate for church leadership

• reasons for interest in study at Luther Seminary

• a summary of future plans for ministry

• a one page-statement outlining your personal faith and theological convictions

Candidates for ministry in the ELCA or other denominations are encouraged to submit their candidacy essay in lieu of the above.

5. Application Fee -- The application fee is $50.  This fee is waived if you submit your application online or are a citizen of a country other than the U.S.

When your application is received, you will be sent an e-mail notice which includes login instructions for MyLutherNet as a prospective student. The MyLutherNet site will allow you to track which documents are still required for admission.

Once all of your application materials are received, it will be reviewed at the next admissions committee meeting. The committee meets regularly and you will be notified by mail within a short time after the group meets.

After you are admitted, you can find out more about FirstWeek orientation and a helpful list of things you can do to prepare for your studies at www.luthersem.edu/newstudents.

As an admitted student, you will also have full access to MyLutherNet and Inside Luther for information about community events, announcements and course registration.