New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

FAQs--Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is the program?
A: The minimum length of the program is 3 1/2 years. Most students take 4-6 years. The maximum length is 7 years

Q: What majors are offered?
A: Christian education, church history, evangelism, missions, New Testament, Old Testament, preaching, psychology and counseling, and theology.

Q: What is the application deadline?
A: September 1 for January admission, February 1 for August admission.

Q: Do I have to live on campus?
A: Though not required, students are encouraged to live on campus and be a part of a scholarly community of learning. However, courses are available only on the main campus.

Q: What is the cost of the program?
A: Southern Baptist students receive "scholarships" from the Southern Baptist Convention. The school fees average about $4,400 per year for the first four years (based on 2010-2011 fees). Non-Southern Baptist fees are double.

Q: How many students are in the research doctoral programs?
A: Approximately 100.

Q: What is the gender diversity of the student body?
A: Approximately 85% male and 15% female.

Q: What is the nationality diversity of the student body?
A: Approximately 85% American and 15% international.

Q: What foreign language prerequisites are required?
A: This varies by major. See Ph.D. Admissions requirements

Q: Is a GRE score required?
A: Applicants must submit GRE scores, including the Analytical Writing component. GRE scores are part of a total package of items considered in reviewing an application.

Official GRE score reports must be at the Office of Research Doctoral Studies by September 1 for January applications and February 1 for August applications.

NOTE: The GRE is being redesigned, and the new exam will be introduced in August and September 2011 at a reduced fee. However, scores from GRE tests taken during these introductory months will not be available until November 2011. Therefore, students desiring to apply by the September 1, 2011 Ph.D. application deadline for the Spring 2012 semester should take the GRE before August 2011 or their scores will not be reported by the fall application deadline.

Q: Is an interview required?
A: Yes, an applicant is required to have an interview with the division faculty of the intended major.

Q: Is an entrance examination required?
A: An entrance examination is required for all applicants.

Q: Are internationals required to take the TOEFL?
A: Yes. For other requirements related to internationals, see the section "International Students" on page 148 of the Graduate Catalog.

Q: Who makes a decision on an application?
A: The Seminary has a Doctoral Admissions Committee that reviews an applicant's file and makes a final decision regarding admission.

Q: When are admissions decisions made?
A: Admissions decisions normally are made in late October for spring admission and early April for fall admission.

Q: When should I apply?
A: An applicant should begin the process early enough to have all application materials and official GRE score reports to the Office of Research Doctoral Programs by September 1/ February 1.

Q: How do I get an application?
A: Call or e-mail the Office of Research Doctoral Programs. You will need to be prepared to give information about your master's preparation, intended major, and anticipated start date. Application materials also can be printed from the Seminary Web site.