Application Steps

Steps for successful Application Submission

Submit the completed online application via GradCAS.
 

1.  Submit an official transcript of all formal studies to date:  The online application system, GradCAS, accepts electronic official transcripts from Credential Solutions, Parchment, and National Student Clearinghouse.  Upon receipt and processing, your transcript status can be viewed via the GradCAS system.  Please note, electronic delivery (through an e-Transcript system) is highly preferred.  If your college/university is not able to submit your official transcript via GradCAS, please have the e-Transcript sent to hugsadmission@howard.edu.

Please note: The online application system, GradCAS, requires that you ALSO upload an unofficial transcript in the Program Information/Documents section

 
2.  Upload a Current Resume

3.  Develop and upload an Autobiographical Statement:  Applicants should provide an Autobiographical Statement (500-750 words) that describes the uniqueness of his/her character, abilities, and other personal information that is motivating his/her desire to pursue the specific degree at the Howard University School of Divinity.

4.  Develop and upload a Statement of interest:  Applicants should provide a Statement of Interest (500-750 words) that describes your purpose and professional goals for pursuing the specific degree at the Howard University School of Divinity.

5.  Submit Three (3) Recommendations:  All letters of recommendation should be submitted via the GradCAS system.  If your recommender is unable to submit your letter via the application system, he/she/they may submit it directly to us via email at hugsadmission@howard.edu.  You may not submit your recommenders' letter(s) on their behalf.

1. Recommendation from a religious official (e.g., pastor, imam, rabbi, etc.) who can attest to the applicant’s spiritual ethos and commitment to ministry, chaplaincy, faith-based social justice work
2. Recommendation from a college professor, administrator or other qualified person who can endorse the applicant’s academic readiness to succeed in a graduate program at the School of Divinity
3. Recommendation from a third individual – i.e., from a religious, educational and/or professional setting – who can underscore the applicant's professional commitment

6. Additional Application Step for Doctor of Ministry Degree Applicants:  Doctor of Ministry applicants must submit a Theory of Ministry Paper as part of the application.  The Theory of Ministry Paper should be a 5-6 page documented narrative of your theological journey. It should begin with the circumstances surrounding your “Call” to ministry. How did it come and which Scripture did the event(s) bring to mind? Then, relate how you nurtured that “Call.” Who were the significant influences, male and female ministers, teachers, etc.? Describe your plans for formal training and indicate which textbooks and academic readings/assignments were helpful in your theological studies. Provide a bibliography.

7.  The Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (I-20) will be issued after the student has (1) been accepted by the Office of Admissions, (2) paid the required enrollment fee, and (3) submitted a financial statement indicating how expenses will be met while the students is attending the University.  Regulations of the Immigration and Naturalization Service require that all people on F-1 (student) visas pursue a full-time course of study at all times.  This means that graduate students must be enrolled in no less than 9 credit hours at all times.  Please contact the Office of International Student Services at 202-806-2777/202-806-2775 or pugbong@howard.edu.

Applicants are encouraged to follow-up with recommenders to ensure timely submission of recommendations.

8.  Submit payment for non-refundable application fee.