MDiv Application Requirements
We look forward to welcoming you into Meadville Lombard’s Master of Divinity degree program. In order to apply, prospective students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.*
International Applicants
For applicants residing outside the United States, before an application can be submitted for review, a conversation with our Sr. Director of Contextual Ministry is required to discuss if and how degree requirements could be met in your location.
Application Requirements
- A completed admissions application form (click the button above to start the full application). International Applicants are required to have a conversation with our Sr. Director of Contextual Ministry before submitting an application.
- A resume or CV
- Two personal essays and two short answer questions to the following prompts:
- Essay 1: Deepest Religious Questions: What are your deepest religious questions, and why? How has your life path brought you to this point in your vocational journey? For this essay, we would like you to focus on the “why.” Do some deep self-examination in order to genuinely illustrate who you are, how you came to be this person, and how your interest in ministry plays a role in your journey. Share the insights, experiences, and lessons that have shaped your perspectives. Write from the heart and illustrate the significance of ministry (your calling) to you. (750–1000 words)
- Essay 2: Vocational Goals: What are your vocational goals? How will graduate study at Meadville Lombard help you prepare to be a religious leader in the 21st century? How will you contribute to spiritually grounded social change in your home community as well as the learning community at Meadville Lombard? (750–1000 words)
- Short Answer 1: Educational Model: Meadville Lombard’s contextual learning model enables us to bridge theory and practice in multiple ways: through Signature Courses, internships, intensive classes, teaching mentors, and our distinguished faculty and accomplished practitioners. How will you take advantage of this educational model? (300–500 words)
- Short Answer 2: About Me: Our Signature Course cohort model allows classmates to learn more about one another on a personal level. What will your classmates be happy to learn about you? (300–500 words)
- Official transcripts of all post-high school, degree-granting academic work (We accept unofficial transcript added directly to the application. We require official transcripts before you begin your program.)
- Two letters of reference from:
- At least one from your minister, or recognized religious or organizational leader
- A layperson who can speak to your professional, congregational, and/or community work
- An academic or career professional who can attest to your ability to satisfactorily complete graduate-level work
- A non-refundable application fee
An on-campus interview is not required; however, a member of the admissions committee may request one.
Meadville Lombard utilizes a rolling admissions model. All applications are reviewed in chronological order according to the date they were completed, and applicants are notified of their acceptance status via email as soon as possible.
