Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to many of your questions. If you do not see your answers here or elsewhere on the Franciscan School of Theology website, you are welcome to contact us by phone, email, or by using our “Contact Us” webform.

  • Is the Franciscan School of Theology a nonprofit? Yes. FST is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit institution. You can learn more about our mission and accreditation on our About page.
  • Can I include FST in my estate plans or make a planned gift? Yes. Visit our Legacy Giving page to learn about wills, bequests, beneficiary designations, and other planned giving options.
  • Are my donations tax-deductible? Yes. All gifts to FST are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Donors will automatically receive a tax receipt/acknowledgment.
  • How can I make a gift? You can give securely online, mail a check, or call the Development Office for assistance. (Vital can link this to Give Now page.)
  • Can I designate my gift to a specific fund or program? Yes! Choose from:
    • Annual Fund – where it’s needed most
    • Student Scholarships – Lay or Religious
    • Faculty Development Fund
    • Franciscan Heritage Endowment Fund
    • How to give: Select your fund online, contact the Development Office, or write your designation on a check.
  • Does FST offer matching gift opportunities? Many employers offer matching gifts. Contact your HR department to see if your gift can be doubled.
  • Can I make a monthly or recurring gift? Yes. Our online giving form allows you to set up a recurring monthly gifts.
  • Can I give in honor or memory of someone? Absolutely. Tribute gifts can be made online or coordinated with our Development Office.
  • How will my gift be used? Unless designated otherwise, gifts support the area of greatest need (FST Annual Fund). These funds help FST advance its mission and provide accessible theological education.
  • What’s the Difference Between the Annual Fund and a Restricted Fund? The Annual Fund is an unrestricted fund that allows FST to use your gift where it is needed most. These gifts support essential areas such as student services, technology upgrades, faculty support, classroom resources, and the ongoing development of academic programs. A restricted fund allows you to direct your gift to a specific purpose—such as Lay Scholarships, Religious Scholarships, the FST Faculty Development Fund, or the Franciscan Heritage Endowment Fund. Restricted gifts provide direct support to students and programs you care most about. Both types of gifts are vital and make a meaningful impact on the Franciscan School of Theology.
  • What does my gift to the Annual Fund support? By making an unrestricted gift in any amount to the Annual Fund, you entrust the Franciscan School of Theology to apply your support wherever it is needed most. Some of the areas your gift will support the school are:
    • Upgrades to technology and the FST YouTube Channel – FST EDU1
    • Student retreats, social gatherings, and community-building events
    • Expansion of library resources at USD’s Copley Library
    • Development of new degree programs, certificates, and the joint doctorate with USD
    • Production of the online Franciscan Zoom Lecture Series
    • Continuing education, non-degree programs, and personal enrichment offerings
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  • What can I support with a restricted gift? Restricted gifts allow donors to support a specific fund or student need. Nearly 80% of our students rely on financial assistance, with the average scholarship covering up to 95% of tuition per semester. Restricted gifts directly impact students and academic excellence. You can designate your restricted gift to:
    • Lay Scholarships: Supporting lay students preparing for careers in ministry, education, healthcare, nonprofits, and more.
    • Religious Scholarships: Supporting men and women preparing for ministry, priesthood, or religious life.
    • FST Faculty Development Fund: Encouraging innovative teaching, research, and publications that reach global audiences.
    • Franciscan Heritage Endowment Fund: Preserving the Franciscan presence by helping FST recruit world-renowned Franciscan friars.

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