14 Master of Divinity Scholarships for Theology Students

The pursuit of education is a transformative journey, one that nourishes both the intellect and the spirit. More than just an academic achievement, this journey is one that can lead to greater self-awareness and community engagement. Pursuing a Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree can be especially meaningful, equipping students for lives of ministry, pastoral care, and theological exploration.

Scholarships play an integral role in this journey, eliminating financial barriers and opening the door to theological education to all who are called to serve. By removing these barriers, scholarships foster a richer, more inclusive learning environment, which aligns closely with the Franciscan calling to live out Christ’s teachings through service and support for those on the margins.

Overview of Financial Aid for Master of Divinity Students

14 Master of Divinity Scholarships, Awards, and Grants

How to Secure Funding for a Master of Divinity

Overview of Financial Aid for Master of Divinity Students

For students pursuing a Master of Divinity, various financial aid options can make a degree program more accessible. From MDiv scholarships to work-study programs, there are ways to alleviate the financial burden of higher education, enabling students to focus on their vocational journey.

Scholarships

Scholarships are a key form of financial aid for MDiv students, offering funds that do not need to be repaid. They are awarded based on various criteria, such as academic excellence, leadership, ministry experience, or demonstrated commitment to service. Scholarships may cover partial to full tuition, and some include stipends for books and living expenses.

Certain institutions, such seminaries, and religious and professional organizations offer scholarships to students with demonstrated need or based on merit. Some Christian denominations may also provide scholarships for students pursuing careers in ministry within their traditions.

Grants

Grants are typically need-based and, like scholarships, do not require repayment. These can be valuable sources of aid, especially for students facing financial constraints. Grant funding may cover tuition, fees, and, in some cases, living expenses.

While more limited at the graduate level, theology students may still qualify for programs such as the Federal Pell Grant if they pursue specific certificates or additional coursework alongside their MDiv. Some seminaries, as well as private foundations such as the Lilly Endowment, also offer grants for theological education.

Federal Aid

Federal aid for MDiv students mainly consists of loans, as direct grant support is less common at the graduate level. The most common forms of federal aid loans include:

• Federal direct unsubsidized loans, which accrue interest while the student is in school but offer flexible repayment plans, including income-driven options
• Graduate PLUS loans, which allow students to borrow up to the total cost of attendance, minus other aid received
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness, under which students working in qualified public service roles, including ministry positions, are eligible to have their federal loans forgiven after making a requisite number of payments and working full-time in an eligible nonprofit or religious organization

Work-study Programs

Work-study offers students a practical way to earn money while gaining ministry or administrative experience. Work-study funds are usually based on financial need, enabling students to work part-time and apply their earnings to tuition or living costs. Work-study opportunities can vary; common examples include campus-based roles, local ministry positions, and teaching and research assistantships. Income gained from these programs reduce students’ reliance on loans while providing real-world experience they can apply for future employment.

Employer Reimbursement Programs

For MDiv students already working in ministry or related nonprofit sectors, employer tuition reimbursement may be part of their benefits package, covering a portion of or all tuition costs for relevant studies. Most employer reimbursement programs require a minimum employment period before students are eligible for tuition assistance. Some programs also require students to continue working for a set period after completing their degree. If the employee leaves before fulfilling this commitment, they may need to repay the reimbursement.

Loans

Loans can bridge funding gaps for students who require additional financial resources beyond scholarships and grants. In addition to federal loans, students may also take out private loans from banks or credit unions, which typically have variable interest rates and may require a co-signer. Some religious organizations and financial institutions, such as CDF Capital and Christian Community Credit Union, offer loans designed for theological students with terms more favorable than traditional private loans.

While loans offer students more flexibility, it is wise to exhaust other financing options, such as scholarships, grants, and employer assistance, first. Students should consider the long-term impact of borrowing and explore forgiveness or income-based repayment options where possible.

14 Master of Divinity Scholarships, Awards, and Grants

For students pursuing a Master of Divinity, numerous scholarships provide support tailored to various backgrounds, faith traditions, and ministry goals. This list highlights scholarships available to students preparing for careers in ministry, with options designed for members of specific denominations, students in financial need, and individuals dedicated to particular areas of service.

Albert Clark Award

Sponsored by Theta Alpha Kappa — a national honor society that recognizes excellence in theological education — the Albert Clark Award is given to the student who writes the best academic paper in religious studies or theology. Each year, a panel of judges selects three winners from the graduate category, awarding them $1,000, $500, or $250 depending on placement. Clark Award winners also have their work published in the Journal of Theta Alpha Kappa. The Clark Award can be a valuable source of funding for MDiv students, particularly because they are able to submit work they have already completed in their regular course of study.

Calihan Academic Grants

Calihan Academic Grants, offered by the Acton Institute, provide $500 to support graduate students and scholars whose work explores the intersection of theology and the principles of a free virtuous society, such as human dignity, religious liberty, and economic freedom. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and interest in these themes, and recipients may apply these funds to research or travel to academic conferences. To apply, students must submit a one-page proposal, a two-page personal essay, a relevant academic paper, and recent transcripts.

Campus Court Scholarship

The Campus Court Scholarship was established by the Catholic Daughters of the Americas (CDA) to support young Catholic women in their academic and faith journeys. Eligible applicants must be Catholic, enrolled in a college or university, and an active Campus Court member. Required materials for submission include an autobiography, a list of reasons for applying, and a letter from their Campus Court advisor confirming membership.

Catholic Employee Scholarship

The Catholic Employee Scholarship from the Franciscan School of Theology (FST) provides a 25% tuition scholarship or up to 50% in matching funds for students employed by Catholic schools, parishes, religious orders, or similar institutions. Both degree-seeking and non-degree students taking courses for full credit are eligible, though students receiving other financial aid are not. This scholarship is designed for those working in Catholic ministries who wish to further their theological education, including through a Master of Divinity. This scholarship is exclusively available to students who enroll in FST’s on-campus program.

Father Leonard Bachmann Graduate Scholarship

Offered by the CDA, the Father Leonard Bachmann Graduate Scholarship awards three $2,500 scholarships annually to U.S. citizens who are Catholic and enrolled in a graduate program. To qualify, applicants must either be a current CDA member or a relative of a current member. Applicants must submit a completed application form, official undergraduate transcript, academic reference, statement of purpose, and autobiography.

Disciples Home Missions Scholarship

The Disciples Home Missions (DHM) Scholarship supports students preparing for ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the U.S. and Canada. Funded by donations and earnings on permanent funds, the scholarship is awarded annually based on eligibility and financial need, with each recipient limited to one scholarship per academic year. Applicants must be members of a Disciples of Christ congregation, enrolled in an MDiv or equivalent program, and be under the care of a regional Commission on the Ministry. Required application materials include transcripts, proof of financial need, and three references (a regional minister, home pastor, and professor).

Episcopal Church Scholarships

Episcopal Church Scholarships are funded by designated trust funds to support Episcopalian students in post-secondary and theological education. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $10,000 annually and are based on financial aid and specific fund criteria. Available to full-time and part-time students, including seminarians, children of missionaries, and clergy, scholarships cover educational expenses such as tuition, housing, health insurance, and books. Applicants must provide written confirmation of active Episcopal Church membership and endorsements from an Episcopal bishop or relevant church authority.

Katherine J. Schutze Memorial Scholarship

The Katherine J. Schutze Memorial Scholarship was established in memory of Katherine Schutze, a dedicated educator, missionary, and advocate for women in ministry within the Disciples of Christ. Created to support women pursuing ordination, the scholarship honors Schutze’s legacy of empowering women in church leadership and ministry. This award is open to female students preparing for ordained ministry, continuing Schutze’s lifelong mission of advancing opportunities for women clergy.

Marguerite Young Endowment Fund

The Marguerite Young Endowment Fund from the Pittsburgh Foundation awards up to $1,500 to students pursuing a Master of Divinity or theological studies at a Protestant seminary. Established in honor of Marguerite Young, a devoted Christian and advocate for ministry education, this scholarship supports those preparing for full-time ministry or serving as seminary interns in Protestant churches. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate a commitment to theological study and ministry.

Martha Gavrila Graduate Scholarship For Women

The Martha Gavrila Scholarship for Women, funded by the Association of Romanian Orthodox Ladies Auxiliaries (ARFORA), awards $1,000 annually to women pursuing post-graduate studies. Established in memory of Martha Gavrila, former president of ARFORA, this scholarship honors her commitment to the Episcopate and Romanian community and supports female students in advancing their education.

Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship

The Mary E. Bivins Religious Scholarship Program supports permanent residents of the Texas Panhandle pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees that prepare them for Christian ministry, specifically for roles as pulpit preachers. Full-time master’s students may receive up to $10,000 per year, while part-time students may receive $1,500, provided they maintain a 3.0 GPA and meet credit requirements. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a strong call to ministry and the intent to serve in church leadership. Those pursuing roles in music ministry, academia, or parachurch organizations are not eligible.

Presbyterian Study Grant

The Presbyterian Study Grant provides up to $6,000 annually to approximately 100 students pursuing full-time MDiv at schools accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. Administered by the Presbyterian Church, the grant supports students who demonstrate financial need and are preparing for church ministry. Eligibility requires membership in a Presbyterian Church congregation, with MDiv students requiring presbytery care.

Professed Members of the Secular Franciscan Order Scholarship

The Professed Members of the Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) Scholarship at the Francsican School of Theology offers financial support to OFS members, providing a 25% tuition reduction or up to 50% matching funds if a fraternity contributes toward tuition. Open to both degree and non-degree students enrolled for full credit, this scholarship reflects FST’s commitment to supporting those dedicated to living the Franciscan charism.

How to Secure Funding for a Master of Divinity

Securing a Master of Divinity scholarship is a critical step to making a theological education more accessible and sustainable. With a wide range of funding sources available, from scholarships to mission-specific grants, students have many opportunities to ease their financial burden. Here are some practical recommendations for students exploring funding options:

• Research school-specific scholarships. Many seminaries and theological schools offer scholarships tailored to their students. These awards often consider academic credit, financial need, or commitment to ministry, so it is essential for students to connect with the financial aid office at their school to understand the full range of funding options available.
• Apply for denominational scholarships. Most Christian denominations support future ministers through designated scholarships. Students are advised to consult their church’s denominational offices to identify scholarship opportunities that align with their faith and intended ministry, as these often consider one’s background, service, and commitment to denominational values.
• Seek out private scholarships. Private organizations, religious foundations, and community groups frequently offer scholarships for students studying theology. These scholarships may focus on particular demographics, ministries, or service commitments, so it is important that students take time to research options and identify those that match their profile and goals.
• Consider employer sponsorship. Students currently employed by a church, religious school, or faith-based nonprofit are advised to inquire about employee tuition reimbursement programs. Many employers encourage continuing education in ministry fields by covering a portion of tuition costs, especially if the course of study enhances the employee’s role in the organization.
• Explore federal aid. Federal financial aid, including Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans, is available to graduate students based on need. While loans do require repayment, they offer flexible terms and may be eligible for income-driven repayment or forgiveness options for students who enter qualifying nonprofit work.
• Apply for work-study positions. Work-study programs enable students to work part-time while enrolled, often in roles that relate to ministry or academic support. These positions can help students earn money toward expenses while gaining valuable experience in a church or campus setting.
• Pursue fellowships and grants. Fellowships and grants are often available to MDiv students, particularly those with a strong academic or vocational background. Unlike loans, these funds do not require repayment and are offered by educational institutions, religious organizations, and foundations that support ministry-focused studies.
• Consider part-time or online study options. If balancing education and finances is challenging, part-time or online study options can be a flexible alternative to full-time MDiv programs. Many schools and seminaries offer this form, enabling students to work alongside their studies, which can help with managing tuition costs while pursuing a degree.
• Reach out to your local church or ministry. A student’s local church may offer financial support or fundraising options for those preparing for ministry. Many congregations are willing to sponsor members pursuing theological education, either directly or through special fundraising events or donor contributions.
• Look for mission-specific funding. Some scholarships and grants specifically support students preparing for particular types of ministry, such as missionary work, social justice initiatives, or community outreach. Students who feel called to a specific ministry focus should research mission-driven funding sources that align with their goals.

Applying for an MDiv scholarship can be a competitive process, but there are several things students can do to highlight the unique qualities that make them a strong candidate for scholarship funding:

• Pay close attention to the requirements. Each scholarship comes with a specific set of requirements, from eligibility criteria to application materials. Students should carefully review these details to ensure they meet all guidelines and submit a complete application, as missing or incorrect information could lead to disqualification.
• Write a compelling personal statement. Most applications require a personal statement or autobiography. This is an opportunity for applicants to communicate who they are and what motivates their journey in theology. Students should be honest, passionate, and specific about their aspirations and how the scholarship will support their mission in ministry.
• Present a clear vision for your future goals. Scholarship committees want to see that applicants have a well-defined vision for their future in ministry. Students should describe their goals, why they’re pursuing an MDiv, and how they plan to use their education to make an impact in their community or chosen field.
• Express your dedication to faith and spiritual growth. Faith and spirituality are central to ministry-focused scholarships, so applicants must make sure to share how they nurture these areas in their life. Demonstrating one’s spiritual journey and growth shows commitment to ongoing formation and religious service.
• Relay any unique experiences or perspectives. Applicants who bring unique life experiences, cultural perspectives, or a distinctive background to their studies should highlight these in their application. Such experiences can enhance a student’s approach to ministry and may align with the values of the MDiv scholarship provider.
• Showcase academic excellence and relevant coursework. Many scholarship programs include minimum GPA requirements or other criteria pertaining to academic achievement. Highlighting these strengths — including honors and relevant courses that relate to theology or ministry — enable applicants to demonstrate their dedication and ability, while their academic records show they have a strong foundation to build upon in graduate studies.
• Include extracurricular activities and community service. Scholarship providers often value service and active community engagement, which align with the mission of ministry. Applicants should share their involvement in church groups, community outreach, or social justice work to illustrate their commitment beyond academics.
• Highlight relevant work or volunteer experience. Whether an applicant has worked or volunteered in a ministry setting, nonprofit, or another service role, they should include these experiences in their application. Real-world experiences in ministry demonstrates a practical commitment and understanding of what the work entails.
• Emphasize leadership roles and responsibilities. Leadership roles in church, school, or the greater community reflect a student’s ability to take initiative and inspire others. Applicants should highlight any positions they have held, such as leading a youth group or organizing events, as these skills are valued in ministry.
• Demonstrate commitment to ministry or service. Scholarship committees seek candidates with a clear dedication to ministry. Applicants must show how their actions reflect a commitment to serving others, both in their career goals and in the way they live out their faith day-to-day.
• Detail any awards or honors received. If an applicant has received any academic, service, or church-related awards, they should include those to underscore their accomplishments and dedication. These honors can differentiate applicants and reflect their contributions to their community or field.
• Discuss any language or cultural skills. Proficiency in another language or familiarity with different cultures can be invaluable in ministry, especially in diverse communities. It is important that applicants highlight any language skills or cross-cultural experiences that enhance their ability to connect with people through service.
• Obtain strong letters of recommendation. Most scholarship programs require applicants to provide letters of recommendation as a testament to their commitment to ministry and their education. Applicants should therefore choose recommenders who know them well and can attest to their faith and character. A well-written recommendation from a respected pastor, professor, or community leader can go a long way toward reinforcing a student’s qualifications and goals.
• Get a second set of eyes on your application. Before submitting, applicants should ask someone they trust to review their application for clarity and completeness. A second set of eyes can help catch any errors, ensure the applicant has answered all questions thoroughly, and provide feedback to strengthen their response.

The Francsican School of Theology at the University of San Diego offers multiple scholarship opportunities to students pursuing a Master of Divinity degree. For financial assistance, please visit our Financial Aid page to see financing options and available scholarships.