Getting in touch

How do I contact an admissions counselor?

Fill out our form or email us at semadmissions@northpark.edu—we’ll get right back to you. You can also call us at (773) 244-6229.

Deadlines and calendar

What are the application deadlines for fall and spring semesters?

The Office of Seminary Admissions reviews applications on a rolling basis, with no application deadlines. However, we recommend students apply by June 15 for the fall term, by November 15 for the spring term, and by March 15 for the summer term.

Can I start my program in any semester?

Most degree-seeking, on-campus or online Chicago-based cohort students can begin their program in the fall or spring semesters. The following programs vary:

• Those enrolling via the Equip and Ignite conference cohorts only begin in the fall semester.
• The certificate in spiritual direction is only available for a summer start.
• The Covenant Orientation program is available for fall, spring, and summer intakes.
• The certificate in missional leadership, the certificate in Christian studies, and the foundational courses certificate are available only for a fall start.

Application process

What kinds of questions and requirements are part of the application?

The first stage of the application is simple to complete, with basic background questions, and can take as little as 15 minutes. We encourage prospective students to complete this early.

Once you complete the initial application, you’ll need to gather other key materials, including an official transcript from previous academic institutions, a letter of reference from a pastor, and a few short personal essays/statements.

Are admissions competitive?

We review student applications to confirm they are academically prepared for master’s-level study and to affirm their ministry calling. If the student is a good missional fit and has a call to ministry, we will work with them to get them here.

Who fills out my pastoral reference—do they need to be my current pastor?

We’d like to hear from a pastor, mentor, or leader who can speak to your process of seeking God in your call to ministry. It does not need to be a current pastor; it can be someone who has been a pastoral presence in your life, walking with you in your calling, or has served alongside you in ministry.

How do I start my application?

Review the full process, and begin by creating an account at our application portal.

Where do I tell my pastoral reference to send their reference?

Provide their email address in the application portal to send them the reference invitation directly.

What if I don’t currently have a church?

We’d love to work with you on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us.

What are you looking for in a faculty interview?

We strongly value relationships and community. The admissions interview connects each applicant directly with a seminary faculty or staff member. They’ll ask you questions to learn more about you, your call to ministry, and your reason for pursuing seminary. They can provide guidance on the program that best fits you.

We also see this as a two-way street: the interview is an opportunity for you to meet us, learn about what we value, and ask your questions.

When do I get my admissions decision?

North Park Theological Seminary (NPTS) typically communicates final admissions decisions via a formal email within a week of an applicant completing their admissions requirements and the faculty interview. See the whole process.

Financial aid

What scholarships am I eligible for?

We offer several scholarship opportunities for our students, and nearly all of our seminarians receive financial assistance.

Some scholarships can be awarded based on academic merit (based on undergraduate GPA), such as the Nyvall and Lund Scholarships. Some scholarships are awarded based on vocational and ministry goals—see the Covenant Presidential Scholarship for those seeking ordination in the Evangelical Covenant Church and the Mosaic Leadership Scholarship, which supports leaders with multicultural or multiethnic backgrounds.

Other discounts, grants, and financial aid programs may apply. See details for available financial aid.

Do I apply for financial aid separately?

NPTS does not require a separate application for scholarships and aid. Our admissions team will automatically review your application for all eligible options. Federal student loans are a separate process, independent of the university or institution. For more information, visit studentaid.gov.

What is the total cost of my program?

Find estimates of the annual cost for common degree programs on our Tuition and Financial Aid page. We also recommend contacting an admissions counselor at any point in the process so they can help guide you through details that may apply to your situation and provide an estimate of the total cost.