The following scholarships are available to seminary students through HELM:
SEMINARY
SCHOLARSHIPS
SEMINARY SCHOLARSHIPS
The following scholarships are available to seminary students through HELM:
The HELM Seminary Scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership among seminary students pursuing ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or related entity. Grants are awarded in amounts up to $1,000 and may be used for tuition, fees, and/or educational materials.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation.
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be pursuing ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or related entity.
-
Must be enrolled in an accredited Seminary, Theological School, or Divinity House.
-
Must submit recommendation by a regional minister or minister at current ministry setting, and a professor in the school of attendance.
-
Demonstrates academic progress for re-application, annually.
APPLY HERE
The Burnie and Naomi Hill Fund is given annually to deserving and qualified women preparing for ordination in the ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and attending one of the theological institutions affiliated with the Division of Higher Education [HELM] of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). (Preference will be given to women from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.)
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation.
-
Must be a woman pursuing ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be enrolled in an accredited Seminary, Theological School, or Divinity House related to Higher Education & Leadership Ministries.
-
Preference given to applicants from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
APPLY HERE
The HELM Non-Traditional Track Scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership capacity among students pursing ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Applicants must be under care with a Regional Commission on Ministry and in the process of seeking ordination (or, are already ordained). Students must submit their educational plan demonstrating how it meets the criteria for Commissioned Ministry. Applicants are eligible for up to $1,000 per academic year provided they are enrolled at least part-time (6 credit hours or similar) in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and/or a new church/entrepreneurial ministry.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must submit a recommendation from the regional minister or minister in current ministry setting.
-
Must be enrolled a minimum of 6 credit hours/or equivalent in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
APPLY HERE
The Ministerial Student Hughey-Perry one-time Grant enables Disciples M.Div. students to participate in non-curricular or extra-curricular experiences that enhance their ability to provide transformational leadership to congregations and other ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A qualifying Disciples ministerial student may apply for a grant of up to $3,000 for support of a research project, educational experience outside the curricular structures of their theological institution, travel for study, or other activities likely to fulfill the purpose of this program. Applicants will present written proposals to Higher Education and Leadership Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by January 15.
Written proposals will: Describe the purpose and plan of the project; Indicate how the project will enhance the applicant’s capacity for leadership within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); Provide a project budget indicating all sources of income for the project, including her or his own funds, funds from other sources, and funds requested from HELM.
Grantees will provide a full report on the project to HELM, suitable for publication, including evaluation of the leadership development goals and outcomes, within 90 days after the completion of the project. Projects must be completed by Dec. 15.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed written proposal by the stated deadline of January 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must be a student at an ATS-Accredited Theological Institution.
-
Must be a second-year Student (or the equivalent) in a Master of Divinity Program, as certified by their institution.
-
Must not be a previous recipient of a HELM Ministerial Student Grant.
APPLY HERE
SEMINARY SCHOLARSHIPS
The following scholarships are available to seminary students through HELM:
The HELM Seminary Scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership among seminary students pursuing ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or related entity. Grants are awarded in amounts up to $1,000 and may be used for tuition, fees, and/or educational materials.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation.
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be pursuing ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or related entity.
-
Must be enrolled in an accredited Seminary, Theological School, or Divinity House.
-
Must submit recommendation by a regional minister or minister at current ministry setting, and a professor in the school of attendance.
-
Demonstrates academic progress for re-application, annually.
APPLY HERE
The Burnie and Naomi Hill Fund is given annually to deserving and qualified women preparing for ordination in the ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and attending one of the theological institutions affiliated with the Division of Higher Education [HELM] of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). (Preference will be given to women from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.)
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation.
-
Must be a woman pursuing ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be enrolled in an accredited Seminary, Theological School, or Divinity House related to Higher Education & Leadership Ministries.
-
Preference given to applicants from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
APPLY HERE
The HELM Non-Traditional Track Scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership capacity among students pursing ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Applicants must be under care with a Regional Commission on Ministry and in the process of seeking ordination (or, are already ordained). Students must submit their educational plan demonstrating how it meets the criteria for Commissioned Ministry. Applicants are eligible for up to $1,000 per academic year provided they are enrolled at least part-time (6 credit hours or similar) in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and/or a new church/entrepreneurial ministry.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must submit a recommendation from the regional minister or minister in current ministry setting.
-
Must be enrolled a minimum of 6 credit hours/or equivalent in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
APPLY HERE
The Ministerial Student Hughey-Perry one-time Grant enables Disciples M.Div. students to participate in non-curricular or extra-curricular experiences that enhance their ability to provide transformational leadership to congregations and other ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A qualifying Disciples ministerial student may apply for a grant of up to $3,000 for support of a research project, educational experience outside the curricular structures of their theological institution, travel for study, or other activities likely to fulfill the purpose of this program. Applicants will present written proposals to Higher Education and Leadership Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by January 15.
Written proposals will: Describe the purpose and plan of the project; Indicate how the project will enhance the applicant’s capacity for leadership within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); Provide a project budget indicating all sources of income for the project, including her or his own funds, funds from other sources, and funds requested from HELM.
Grantees will provide a full report on the project to HELM, suitable for publication, including evaluation of the leadership development goals and outcomes, within 90 days after the completion of the project. Projects must be completed by Dec. 15.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed written proposal by the stated deadline of January 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must be a student at an ATS-Accredited Theological Institution.
-
Must be a second-year Student (or the equivalent) in a Master of Divinity Program, as certified by their institution.
-
Must not be a previous recipient of a HELM Ministerial Student Grant.
APPLY HERE
At Lexington Theological Seminary, each Disciples of Christ or United Church of Christ M.Div., M.T.S., Certificate in Pastoral Ministry with credit, or Special student who has been an active member of a Disciples of Christ or UCC congregation for a year or longer and who is under care of his/her regional commission on the ministry will receive a scholarship of 50% per credit hour up to the total number of credits required by the program. Other full-tuition or 75% tuition scholarships are available to students regardless of denomination.
APPLY HERE
Phillips University Legacy Foundation offers a renewable, merit-based Seminary Scholarship for graduate students pursuing a master’s degree, are committed to pastoral ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and will attend a Disciples-affiliated theological institution. The Scholarship honors the legacy of Phillips University by developing leaders who will transform the world through ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Annual merit-based scholarships of up to $4500 are awarded annually and can be renewed in the following years. Applications are available on a rolling basis.
Criteria:
-
Committed to pastoral ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
-
Must attend a Disciples-affiliated theological institution
-
Must have attained an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
-
Must show promise for transformative service to the church and community.
APPLY HERE
The Burnie and Naomi Hill Fund is given annually to deserving and qualified women preparing for ordination in the ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and attending one of the theological institutions affiliated with the Division of Higher Education [HELM] of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). (Preference will be given to women from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.)
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) congregation.
-
Must be a woman pursuing ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be enrolled in an accredited Seminary, Theological School, or Divinity House related to Higher Education & Leadership Ministries.
-
Preference given to applicants from Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
APPLY HERE
The HELM Non-Traditional Track Scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership capacity among students pursing ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Applicants must be under care with a Regional Commission on Ministry and in the process of seeking ordination (or, are already ordained). Students must submit their educational plan demonstrating how it meets the criteria for Commissioned Ministry. Applicants are eligible for up to $1,000 per academic year provided they are enrolled at least part-time (6 credit hours or similar) in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and/or a new church/entrepreneurial ministry.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must submit a completed online application by the stated deadline of March 15, no exceptions.
-
Must submit a recommendation from the regional minister or minister in current ministry setting.
-
Must be enrolled a minimum of 6 credit hours/or equivalent in a Certificate of Ministry program or similar credentialing program recognized by an ATS accredited seminary.
APPLY HERE
The Ministerial Student Hughey-Perry one-time Grant enables Disciples M.Div. students to participate in non-curricular or extra-curricular experiences that enhance their ability to provide transformational leadership to congregations and other ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). A qualifying Disciples ministerial student may apply for a grant of up to $3,000 for support of a research project, educational experience outside the curricular structures of their theological institution, travel for study, or other activities likely to fulfill the purpose of this program. Applicants will present written proposals to Higher Education and Leadership Ministries of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by January 15.
Written proposals will: Describe the purpose and plan of the project; Indicate how the project will enhance the applicant’s capacity for leadership within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); Provide a project budget indicating all sources of income for the project, including her or his own funds, funds from other sources, and funds requested from HELM.
Grantees will provide a full report on the project to HELM, suitable for publication, including evaluation of the leadership development goals and outcomes, within 90 days after the completion of the project. Projects must be completed by Dec. 15.
Criteria:
-
Must be a member of a congregation listed in the yearbook of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).
-
Must submit a completed written proposal by the stated deadline of January 15, no exceptions.
-
Must be under the care of a Regional Commission on Ministry.
-
Must be a student at an ATS-Accredited Theological Institution.
-
Must be a second-year Student (or the equivalent) in a Master of Divinity Program, as certified by their institution.
-
Must not be a previous recipient of a HELM Ministerial Student Grant.
APPLY HERE
The following scholarships are available to seminary students through other ministries and institutions. If your institution would like to have a scholarship listed below, please use this link to fill out the request form.
Disciples Seminary Foundation (DSF) offers generous financial support for covenanted students at our three partner schools: Claremont School of Theology, Pacific School of Religion, and Iliff School of Theology. All Disciples and UCC students are eligible to apply for DSF financial assistance. Applicants will be asked to write a brief essay (2 pages) on two or three topics provided. A letter of recommendation from three references (Congregational minister, Regional/Conference minister, college dean, professor or someone related to higher education) will need to be provided. The deadline is rolling until the quota has been met per academic year.
Criteria:
-
The applicant must be admitted to a graduate degree program at one of the DSF partner schools.
-
The applicant must be affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or the United Church of Christ.
APPLY HERE
The following scholarships are available to seminary students through other ministries and institutions. If your institution would like to have a scholarship listed below, please use this link to fill out the request form.
Disciples Seminary Foundation (DSF) offers generous financial support for covenanted students at our three partner schools: Claremont School of Theology, Pacific School of Religion, and Iliff School of Theology. All Disciples and UCC students are eligible to apply for DSF financial assistance. Applicants will be asked to write a brief essay (2 pages) on two or three topics provided. A letter of recommendation from three references (Congregational minister, Regional/Conference minister, college dean, professor or someone related to higher education) will need to be provided. The deadline is rolling until the quota has been met per academic year.
Criteria:
-
The applicant must be admitted to a graduate degree program at one of the DSF partner schools.
-
The applicant must be affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or the United Church of Christ.
APPLY HERE
Phillips University Legacy Foundation offers a renewable, merit-based Seminary Scholarship for graduate students pursuing a master’s degree, are committed to pastoral ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and will attend a Disciples-affiliated theological institution. The Scholarship honors the legacy of Phillips University by developing leaders who will transform the world through ministry within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Annual merit-based scholarships of up to $4500 are awarded annually and can be renewed in the following years. Applications are available on a rolling basis.
Criteria:
-
Committed to pastoral ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
-
Must attend a Disciples-affiliated theological institution
-
Must have attained an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
-
Must show promise for transformative service to the church and community.
APPLY HERE
Phillips Theological Seminary provides tuition assistance to students who maintain satisfactory academic progress and are enrolled in the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Ministry and Culture, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts (Social Justice), or Doctor of Ministry program. For DOC/UCC students, they receive 100% tuition assistance.
APPLY HERE
Starting Fall 2025, Phillips will award Phillips Seminary Scholarships to eight incoming, masters-level students. Awards include 100% tuition assistance, plus living stipend. Awards include 2 Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) students each year.
APPLY HERE
The Robert T. and Harriet M. Peake Endowed Scholarship provides 100% Full Tuition (up to 24 hours) and requires the completion of an application, including a written essay and two references. One qualified DOC student will receive the award, which will cover 100% full tuition, fees, and a book stipend. Application is made in the spring. One scholarship is available per year.
APPLY HERE
The Student Gift Membership program, established in 1953 as part of Pension Fund’s Ministerial Relief and Assistance, is a unique opportunity designed to support and empower students preparing for ministry. The program provides eligible ministry students with early access to the Pension Plan. This initiative not only helps students start their financial journey toward a secure retirement but also introduces them to the benefits and values of the Pension Fund community. By participating, students can begin building a strong financial foundation for their future in ministry while gaining access to resources that promote long-term stability and growth.
APPLY HERE
Ketcherside Scholarships are given for in-house archival or writing projects for the Disciples of Christ Historical Society. The program is open to students in graduate studies at one our constituent institutions, or any academic committed to the study of the Stone-Campbell heritage. We do not provide scholarships for course or degree work.
APPLY HERE
The Christian Ministries Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance for those persons living in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Mid-America (CCMA) Region who are preparing for Christian Ministries, both in seminary and undergraduate education.
APPLY HERE
Phillips Theological Seminary provides tuition assistance to students who maintain satisfactory academic progress and are enrolled in the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Ministry and Culture, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts (Social Justice), or Doctor of Ministry program. For DOC/UCC students, they receive 100% tuition assistance.
APPLY HERE
Starting Fall 2025, Phillips will award Phillips Seminary Scholarships to eight incoming, masters-level students. Awards include 100% tuition assistance, plus living stipend. Awards include 2 Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) students each year.
APPLY HERE
The Robert T. and Harriet M. Peake Endowed Scholarship provides 100% Full Tuition (up to 24 hours) and requires the completion of an application, including a written essay and two references. One qualified DOC student will receive the award, which will cover 100% full tuition, fees, and a book stipend. Application is made in the spring. One scholarship is available per year.
APPLY HERE
Christian Theological Seminary is offering a full tuition scholarship for M.Div. students who are members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or the United Church of Christ. Early application is recommended. It covers full tuition (excluding student fees) and requires minimum enrollment of 6 credits per semester, for up to 6 years.
APPLY HERE
Christian Theological Seminary is offering a full tuition scholarship for M.Div. students who are members of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or the United Church of Christ. Early application is recommended. It covers full tuition (excluding student fees) and requires minimum enrollment of 6 credits per semester, for up to 6 years.
APPLY HERE
At Lexington Theological Seminary, each Disciples of Christ or United Church of Christ M.Div., M.T.S., Certificate in Pastoral Ministry with credit, or Special student who has been an active member of a Disciples of Christ or UCC congregation for a year or longer and who is under care of his/her regional commission on the ministry will receive a scholarship of 50% per credit hour up to the total number of credits required by the program. Other full-tuition or 75% tuition scholarships are available to students regardless of denomination.
APPLY HERE