Financial aid for the Doctor of Ministry program includes the following. Click on each type for further explanation. You can also learn more about the Seminary's tuition and cost of attendance.
What is it?
A grant is need-based funding that does not have to repaid. The Tuition Grant is applied toward tuition costs. This aid is offered by PTS, regardless of denominational affiliation.
How are grants determined?
PTS Tuition Grants are based on a student's need. Need is determined from information submitted on the PTS Financial Aid Application. Students with a nine-month Expected Family Contribution (EFC) above the Cost of Tuition do not qualify for PTS grants. After determining a student's need, PTS fills a percentage of that need with grants.
What is the range?
Full-time and half-time students can qualify for up to the full cost of tuition.
Who qualifies?
Full-time students and half-time students enrolled in a master's or certificate program and demonstrating financial need. (For specifics, see the Catalog.) Students who are in a “default status” on their federal educational loans are ineligible for institutional aid. Applications will not be processed or funds disbursed until any past due amount to PTS is paid in full and the student is in good standing. Students who received financial aid to complete one program are not eligible for financial aid for a second program until three academic years have passed.
How to apply?
Incomplete packets will not be processed. Students who are not required to file must see the instructions on the application and submit additional items. The Financial Aid office reserves the right to request additional documentation to verify information provided on the Aid Application.
When can I apply? Is there a deadline?
The Financial Aid Office is accepting complete Financial Aid Packets for this academic year and next. There is no final deadline to submit an application. Applications are reviewed on a "first come, first served" basis, until funds are expended. Early application is encouraged.
Do I have to apply each year for grants?
No! Students need only apply upon admission to PTS for their Tuition Grant. PTS guarantees the award during the duration of the student's program based upon the initial Aid Application. However, students are required to submit a Financial Aid Recertification form each year to update any financial or family information that could impact aid.
What is it?
A Merit Scholarship is offered by PTS to incoming students. Merit Scholarships are based on past academic achievement, demonstrated potential for outstanding Christian service, PTS enrollment status, and requires the submission of a PTS Need-based Aid Application.
Range of award?
$750 - $1,500/year.
Who qualifies?
Complete admission applications are placed before the Admissions and Standing Committee, which awards all scholarships.
What is the deadline?
Merit scholarships are awarded before the first session of the cohort and the deadline for consideration is the same as the admissions deadline for each cohort.
Is it renewable?
Merit Scholarships awarded for full-time enrollment are renewable for three years for a student enrolled in the D.Min. program. Academic progress is reviewed at year-end, and students must meet satisfactory academic progress to maintain eligibility.
Many students will enter seminary with educational loans, so every effort is made to keep this aid component to a minimum. However, loans are available through some denominational agencies and private lenders for Doctor of Ministry students.
Learn more about loans and access the applications.
Ombudsman
877-557-2575
To resolve discrepancies in loan balances and payments, understand financial aid requirements, find loan holders or promissory notes, defer or discharge loans, reestablish eligibility for federal aid, rehabilitate loans, or resolve issues.
All programs at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary are approved for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Inquiries concerning the certification for benefits under Chapter 31 and Chapter 33 Post-9/11 GI Bill® should be directed to the PTS Registrar's Office. Pittsburgh Theological Seminary complies with all VA policies governing educational benefits, including Title 38 USC 3679.
For more information regarding VA benefits and policies, please contact the Registrar's Office. If requested, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary is required to provide copies of grades and academic records to the Veterans Administration without seeking prior approval of the individual veteran. For additional information on this program, please visit the VA website.