At Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary, admissions is designed to be clear, supportive, and accessible.
Whether you’re exploring theological education for the first time or returning to school after years in ministry, our goal is to help you understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
With the majority of our students studying online, our admissions process is built to serve working adults, bivocational ministers, and students balancing ministry, family, and professional commitments.
Who Can Apply
BMATS welcomes students from a wide range of educational and ministry backgrounds, including:
- Undergraduate students pursuing degrees or certificates
- Graduate students seeking advanced theological education
- Transfer students bringing prior college or seminary coursework
- Certificate students seeking focused ministry training
- Online students studying from across the U.S. and internationally
- Recent High School graduates who feel called to serve
If you’re unsure which path fits your background or calling, our admissions team is available to help you explore your options.
Admissions Pathways
BMATS offers several admissions pathways based on your academic background and educational goals. Select the option below that best fits your situation to learn more about requirements and next steps.
Undergraduate Admissions
For students beginning theological education or completing an undergraduate degree in biblical and theological studies.
Learn More
Graduate Admissions
For students pursuing advanced theological education, pastoral preparation, or ministry leadership training.
Learn More
Transfer Admissions
For students transferring coursework from another accredited institution into a BMATS degree or certificate program.
International Student Admissions
For students residing outside the United States who wish to pursue theological education through BMATS.
How the Admissions Process Works
Applying to BMATS follows a straightforward, student-friendly process:
Choose a Program
Explore undergraduate, graduate, or certificate programs to find the best fit for your goals.
Apply Online
Complete the online application at your convenience.
Submit Required Materials
Transcripts and supporting documents are reviewed as part of the admissions process.
Admissions Review
Each application is evaluated carefully and individually by our admissions team.
Enrollment & Next Steps
Once accepted, students receive guidance on registration, advising, and preparing for classes.
Applying does not obligate you to enroll, and our admissions team is available to answer questions at every stage.
Admissions Standards & Requirements
Application Requirement
Applicants must submit an application at least four weeks prior to registration.
Students who have not attended BMATS within the past two years must reapply.
Academic Readiness
Students must demonstrate basic proficiency in writing and research. Prior coursework, entrance testing, and/or writing samples may be used to assess readiness.
Applicants who need additional preparation may be required to complete developmental coursework or a writing skills course as part of their academic plan.
Computer Proficiency
All students must demonstrate basic computer proficiency through prior coursework or a proficiency assessment.
Prior Academic Training
BMATS is primarily a finishing seminary for ministry leaders. Admissions decisions follow the academic standards of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
English Proficiency (International Students)
Applicants whose primary language is not English must submit a minimum TOEFL score of 80.
Admissions for Online Students
Online learning is the primary mode of study at BMATS—not an afterthought. Our admissions process and academic programs are designed with online students in mind.
Students studying online receive:
Access to faculty interaction and academic advising
Structured coursework with flexibility for work and ministry schedules
Support resources designed for distance learners
For most students, the online classroom functions as their primary campus experience.
Transfer Credit & Academic Backgrounds
Many BMATS students enter with prior college, ministry training, or seminary coursework.
Transfer credit is evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine how previous academic work may apply toward your program.
Our admissions team works closely with students to:
- Review transcripts carefully
- Identify applicable transfer credit
- Clarify remaining coursework requirements
This process helps students make informed decisions about time to completion and academic planning.
Tuition, Affordability & Planning
BMATS is committed to providing high-quality theological education at an affordable cost. We encourage prospective students to explore tuition information early and use available tools to plan responsibly.
Resources include:
- Clear tuition information by program
- A Net Price Calculator to estimate costs
- Admissions support for financial planning questions
Our goal is transparency—so students can move forward with confidence.
Nondiscrimination Policy
BMATS admits qualified students without discrimination in accordance with applicable laws and recognized religious exemptions.
Take the Next Step
If you’re considering BMATS and want to learn more about the admissions process, we’re here to help.
