As a traditionalist Orthodox theological institution, the principal admission requirements for those wishing to attend the Saint Photios Orthodox Theological Seminary are an unwavering commitment to Scripture and Holy Tradition, the Biblical and Canonical rules of Christian moral behavior, and a sincere desire to serve the Orthodox Church.

“I think this was the best decision I ever made for myself.”

—Teodora, Student

Bachelor of Theology (B. Th.)

A high school diploma or its equivalent (a General Educational Development [G. E. D.] certificate or a homeschool diploma) is required for entry into the Bachelor of Theology program. Students with the ability to benefit (A. T. B.) from secondary education, but who have no diploma or equivalent, are not accepted. Such students should obtain a G. E. D. certificate before applying to the Seminary.

Master of Theological Studies (M. T. S.)

A bachelor’s degree from an approved school or an accredited college or university is required for entry into the Master of Theological Studies program. Though not required, it is highly recommended that applicants for the master’s degree program have results from the Graduate Record Examination (G. R. E.) sent to the Seminary Registrar at the time of application.

International Students

International students may apply by submitting the International Student Application Form with all supporting documentation. The Seminary is certified with the Student Exchange Visitor Program (S.E.V.P.). This certification allows the Seminary to register students in the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (S.E.V.I.S.), and to thereby provide the form I-20, which is an essential form for the F-1 visa application, to foreign students who are accepted to the Seminary and have presented the required documentation. Required documentation for obtaining the I-20 includes a copy of the student’s passport, proof of proficiency in the English language according to the Seminary’s minimum standards, and documentation proving the student’s ability to afford all tuition and living expenses for one year. This may include personal fund statements, sponsor affidavits, scholarship letters, etc.

Non-Degree Students

Applicants may elect to take courses in the Bachelor of Theology program for credit, but without the goal of earning a degree. Such credits may or may not be transferable to other schools. When applying, please indicate your goals in taking courses as a non-degree student. In order to receive non-degree credits, an applicant must be able to provide evidence of a high school diploma or its equivalent (a G. E. D. certificate or a homeschool diploma).