On January 15, Candler School of Theology will begin awarding scholarships to admitted Master of Divinity (MDiv), Master of Theological Studies (MTS) and Master of Religious Leadership (MRL) students for the fall of 2015. Candler’s commitment to providing a variety of financial aid opportunities makes seminary a viable option for applicants. More than 80 percent of full-time students receive scholarship support during their time at Candler. No additional application is required. The application for admission serves as the application for scholarships.

Scholarship opportunities include:

Full tuition awards and fellowships. Candidates applying for Candler’s MDiv degree program will be considered for the Robert W. Woodruff Fellowships, which award full tuition and a $10,000 annual stipend for three academic years. For those applying to Candler’s MTS and MRL degree programs, scholarships are available up to full tuition with stipends.

MDiv scholarships. Students pursuing a Master of Divinity degree are eligible for multiple scholarships, including Candler’s new Carpenter Scholarship for Community Engagement, which rewards a commitment to community engagement and social transformation. MDiv applicants from all denominations who are preparing for pulpit ministry will be considered for Garrett Scholarships, which provide up to full tuition for three academic years. MDiv candidates who are members of The United Methodist Church are eligible for awards including the Margaret A. Pitts Scholarship, which covers full tuition and fees, and includes a $7,000 annual stipend for applicants preparing for ministry as an elder or deacon, and Sherman, McDonald, Wesley and Hardin Scholarships, which offer full tuition for applicants preparing for ministry as an elder. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for MDiv applicants who are pursuing a vocation beyond the local church. International MDiv Scholarships are available to candidates who are citizens of countries outside the United States, and cover up to full tuition for three academic years.

MTS and MRL scholarships. Candler is committed to educating faithful and creative leaders for the church’s ministries in the world, ministries that can extend beyond local congregations. Scholarships and financial assistance are available to MTS and MRL candidates who feel called to vocations in academia, nonprofit work, peacebuilding and more.

Doctor of Ministry tuition discount. Students accepted to Candler’s innovative Doctor of Ministry (DMin) degree program for fall 2015 are also eligible for financial aid, and will receive a 30% tuition discount. Designed to fit the 21st century needs of ministers, 90 percent of the new DMin takes place online, allowing participants to remain in local congregations and apply their learning directly to their ministry settings. The application deadline for fall 2015 is March 15.

To be considered for MDiv, MTS and MRL scholarships, submit your application by the priority deadline of January 15, 2015. See a full list of Candler scholarship opportunities.