Columbia invites international students (persons who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents) to apply to our advanced degree programs ( Master of Theology and Doctor of Theology). International applicants whose visa status does not require full-time enrollment in a degree program may apply to the Doctor of Ministry and Doctor of Educational Ministry degree programs as well. Columbia typically does not accept international students in the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) or Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) programs.
All international students applying to Columbia must submit the materials specifically required for the degree program to which they are applying (Master of Theology, Doctor of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, or Doctor of Educational Ministry).
Applicants for whom English is a second language must furnish evidence of a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 220 (computer format), 550 (written format), or 77 (internet format). The test score must be no more than two years old.
To receive admission information and application materials, send a request to The Office of International Programs at intlprog@ctsnet.edu or to the address below. Requests for admission information or an application must include the degree program of interest. Catalogs and applications will be sent to inquirers seeking admission. Persons seeking general information should see the online catalog.
Application materials from international students that are downloaeded from our website, faxed, or copied cannot be accepted. Please note: Applicants should not come to Atlanta until they have received a formal letter of acceptance from the Admissions Committee to a degree program and have obtained the necessary visa. Accepted students .without proper immigration documents will not be allowed to enroll for classes.
Financial Requirements
Upon admission, and before the visa application process can begin, accepted applicants must provide documented proof of financial support for expenses that include, but are not limited to, travel, tuition, room, board, books, medical insurance, and all educational and personal expenses. Documented funding must be adequate to meet the total cost of tuition and estimated living expenses.
International students in avanced degree programs are not eligible for financial aid. Part-time work on campus is very limited.
Scholarships awarded by the seminary to international students are limited to those students in established exchanges programs with Columbia's partner institutions.
Columbia Seminary strictly prohibits international students from soliciting funds from individuals or congregations in the United States.
Insurance
International students are required to carry the school-sponsored hospitalization insurance for themselves and all accompanying family members.
Doctor of Ministry Special Requirements for International Students
In addition to the above, international students applying to the D.Min. program must meet the following additional requirements:
1. A minimum of 16 months residency in the Atlanta area (beginning in fall semester) to complete program components through the qualifying examinations and approval of project proposal;
2. Letters of approval, with detailed plans for a specific project in ministry, from the student's church authorities;
3. Identification of two persons who hold doctoral degrees and are residents in the country in which the applicant ministers; these persons should be familiar with the ministry of the applicant and be willing to serve as members of his or her doctoral committee. This committee advises the applicant regarding a course of study and supervises and evaluates his/her doctoral project.
For more information:
Office of Advanced Studies
Columbia Theological Seminary
P.O. Box 520
Decatur, GA 30031
USA
404 687-4534
404 377-9696 (fax)