Students who answer God’s call to the Christian ministry make a serious commitment of their time, talents and finances. It is important for a student to consider their ability to fund a seminary education which includes tuition, books, and living expenses and other related costs. BST shares the conviction of the Association of Theological Schools that the individual student must pull together many resources to cover the cost of seminary education: personal savings and assets, summer employment, part–time employment, scholarships from home churches and other organizations and family assistance (parents and spouse).
Tuition Assistance Opportunities for BST Graduate Students
Looking for funding? You’ve come to the right place!
Berkeley School of Theology is committed to providing financial assistance to qualified students who enroll in the seminary’s degree programs. The following is a partial list of financial assistance that may be available to you depending upon your financial need, scholarship requirements, and availability of scholarship funds.
Please note that clicking on the links provided on this webpage will redirect you to external websites not necessarily affiliated with or endorsed by BST. We do not have control over any third-party sites’ content, privacy policies, or practices. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for any information, products, or services on these external sites. We encourage you to review the terms and conditions and privacy policies of any third-party websites you visit.
Financing Your Seminary Education
Most students use a mix of institutional support, federal aid (if eligible), and outside resources. Our goal is simple, help you understand your options early so your plan stays steady through the term.
1) Start with the FAFSA (if eligible)
If you are eligible for U.S. federal aid, the FAFSA is the starting point for Federal Direct Loans. Submit as early as you can to avoid delays.
- Use BST’s federal school code: G01120
- Watch for follow-up requests for documents or corrections
2) Confirm your file is complete
Aid timing depends on completed requirements and confirmed enrollment. If something is missing, the fastest path is usually to complete the outstanding item rather than waiting on the calendar.
- Respond quickly to any requests for documentation
- Keep your contact info up to date so notices do not get missed
- International students should complete the international aid form (if applicable)
3) What aid can include
Your financial plan may include:
- Institutional tuition support (based on program and eligibility)
- Federal Direct Loans (if eligible, based on FAFSA and federal rules)
- External scholarships (church, denomination, employer, foundation)
Need help?
If you have questions about your status, missing items, timelines, or eligibility, reach out early. A quick check-in can prevent weeks of back-and-forth later.
Note: Eligibility and timing depend on enrollment status, completed requirements, and applicable federal regulations.
Veterans Benefits
At Berkeley School of Theology, GI Bill® funds may be used by eligible active duty and veteran students.
Degree-seeking students may also qualify for benefits through the VA Yellow Ribbon Program.
Enrollment can be certified by the VA certifying official.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
For official information, visit
benefits.va.gov/gibill
.
Sources of Financial Aid and Scholarships
Scholarships can be a strong supplement to institutional support and loans. Check the scholarships listed on this page,
but don’t stop there, keep searching.
Tips & Tricks
- Use scholarship search engines.
Never pay to apply or share sensitive information (like your SSN or bank details).
Legit scholarships typically only ask for basics like your name, age, and school. - Search by your traits or interests.
Try Google searches like “scholarships for…” plus your hobbies, background, employer, denomination, or major. - Just ask.
Reach out to your church, local clubs (Rotary, Kiwanis, etc.), or even businesses.
A simple letter can go a long way.
Sample letter - Check big companies.
Many corporations offer scholarships. Don’t overlook employer and industry programs. - Apply consistently.
You’ll likely apply for more scholarships than you win, and that’s normal. Volume and follow-through matter.
Keep going, the effort you put in now can pay off later.
At a Glance
Domestic Students
If you are eligible for federal aid, submit the FAFSA and respond promptly to any requests for follow-up items.
Use BST’s federal school code G01120.
International Students
Complete the international aid process (if applicable) and stay in touch if you have timing or documentation questions.
Planning Notes
Aid timing depends on completed requirements and confirmed enrollment. If something is missing, completing the requirement is usually the fastest path forward.
DOMESTIC APPLICANTS (U.S. CITIZENS OR PERMANENT RESIDENTS)
File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. The BST school code of G01120 should be entered in the school section of the FAFSA. Use estimated tax information if your federal taxes are not complete by April 15th.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
- Students who apply for financial aid after April 15 will be awarded on a first come basis and as funds are available. Priority is given to new students who are enrolling for the first time in the seminary.
- Student must be enrolled at least half-time.
- Students must be in good standing and maintain a GPA of 2.5 to receive financial assistance. Students who are placed on probation will be denied Government Guaranteed Student Loans until the probation has been removed. Students should refer to the Berkeley School of Theology Financial Aid Handbook for additional information regarding Financial Aid policies.
SUMMER FINANCIAL AID
For eligibility for BST Summer aid, the following conditions apply:
- You must be enrolled in the MDiv, MCL, MTS, or DMin programs.
- For federal Direct Loans, you must be enrolled at least half-time (6.0 credits for BST MDiv, MCL and MTS degree students, 3.0 credits for DMin students) over the course of the summer session.
- For BST Scholarship Aid you must be enrolled in at least one BST Summer Session course. There is no minimum enrollment requirement for scholarship aid eligibility.
