At BTSR we recognize every student's need to place a priority on studies, so we make efforts to help M. Div students with seminary costs. In 1999-2000, full-time students demonstrating maximum need received grants of at least 50 percent of the cost of tuition from all sources of aid, including those listed in the next section.

For M. Div students, the seminary has a variety of scholarship help based on both need and academic merit. A brochure describing the various scholarships and an application for financial aid are sent to prospective students when they request an admissions packet.

The application deadline for receiving maximum aid is February 1 for entrance in Summer or Fall Term, and November 1 for entrance in Winter, Spring, or May Terms. Students receive notice of their financial aid awards by May 15 (or with their acceptance letter if they are admitted after May 15). Students must reapply for aid each year. Awards are made for the academic year, which runs from Summer Term through May Term.

Need-based scholarship grants are available from the seminary's General Scholarship Fund and from scholarships established by various churches and individuals (see Appendix A). Also, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship provides a significant level of scholarship aid which the seminary administers. Usually, need-based aid is given only to M. Div degree students enrolled for more than one credit in a long term.

BTSR has three levels of Merit Scholarships which are awarded to entering students for the first year of study, and they are based on academic achievement and potential for ministry. Merit Scholarships are awarded at the time of acceptance by the admissions committee, and no separate application is required.

The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship provides funds to BTSR for several Leadership Scholarships. Based on potential for service in CBF, merit, and need, these scholarships provide $4,000 per year plus funds to attend the annual general assembly of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. Applications are available from the Financial Aid Office and are due April 1.

A limited number of scholarships are available for study in the Distance Education (DE) program, for both M.Div and non-degree students. Priority in making awards goes to students enrolled exclusively in DE courses. All DE students are considered for a scholarship; a separate application is not required.

BTSR's desire is for no student's financial need to be a barrier to seminary education. Students experiencing financial difficulty are asked to talk with the Director
of Financial Aid about options for meeting their obligations.

Questions on scholarship help may be addressed to: Ida May Hays Director of Financial Aid 804.204.1218