How to Apply

HDS uses an online admissions application process. You must submit all of your required documents online except for your academic transcripts. Application deadlines, online application form, and application instructions for fall 2012 enrollment are available for informational purposes only. The deadlines for all programs for fall 2012 have now passed.

A completed application consists of the following:

  • Online application form
  • Application fee of $75
  • Résumé or curriculum vitae
  • Official transcripts for all coursework taken for credit
  • Three letters of recommendation (submitted electronically through our online application system)
  • Statement of purpose—1,000 words 
  • Essay—500 words (MDiv and MTS applicants only)
  • GRE General Test scores or approved waiver* (MDiv, MTS, ThM, and ThD applicants)
  • TOEFL scores (required of some international applicants only)
  • Abstract of courses (ThD applicants only)
  • Writing sample (ThD applicants only)

*GRE waivers are granted to MDiv, MTS, and ThM applicants who hold advanced degrees. Please contact the Office of Admissions if you have a previous advanced degree and would like to learn more about the process of requesting a GRE waiver.

If you would like to begin to prepare your materials before the online application is available, you may want to consider taking these initial steps: update your résumé or curriculum vitae, study for the GRE, write an initial draft of your statement of purpose, discuss your application plans with your recommendation providers, or research outside scholarships and funding sources. Careful planning will allow you to put forth a thoughtful, cohesive application.

All materials submitted in connection with applications for admission become the property of Harvard Divinity School and cannot be returned or forwarded to any other party.