Admission

MTS class 2025

Deadlines | Candidacy requirements | Admission procedure | Fees | International students | Contact

So, you're interested in the Master of Theological Studies (MTS) program at Conrad Grebel University College. Here are a few things you should know as you consider the application and admission process.

We encourage anyone interested in the MTS program to contact the TS department before submitting an application. Applicants will apply to the MTS program through the University of Waterloo, and final decisions regarding admissibility are ultimately made by UWaterloo Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) with recommendations from the TS Admissions Committee.

Application deadlines

At Conrad Grebel and the University of Waterloo, the academic year is divided into three terms: fall (September to December), winter (January to April) and spring (May to August).

  • The fall term application deadline is February 1.

  • Late fall term applications will be accepted until May 1.

  • The winter term application deadline is September 1. 

  • Registration for specific courses should take place according to the timetable at the university.  
  • Details on events and academic deadlines are available on the Graduate Studies Academic Calendar website.
  • Late applications and registrations will be reviewed; contact the Theological Studies department for details.

Candidates for admission

Candidates for admission to the MTS program are academically qualified to pursue graduate studies:

  • For applicants whose previous degree was completed in Canada, a 75% overall standing in the last two years, or equivalent, in a four-year Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent is the minimum requirement for admission to the program. 

  • Due to the variable nature of international credentials, for applicants whose previous degree was completed outside of Canada, a 75% overall standing in a four-year Honours Bachelor's degree or equivalent is the minimum requirement for admission.

  • Alternative admission requirements: MTS may grant alternative admission to a limited number of students who do not meet the regular academic admission requirements of a four-year Bachelor's degree or equivalent. The admissions committee will be guided by the following alternative admission standards:

     - Applicants with a three-year bachelor degree in theology or religious studies with a 75% average (or its equivalent) may be eligible for non-standard entry directly into the MTS program.

     - MTS may grant admission to mature students who do not meet the regular academic admission requirements but who show aptitude for graduate study, and have significant field experience in a church or faith-based social service agency. The admissions committee will be guided by the following non-standard admission standards:

  • Evidence of successful participation in post-secondary education as documented by transcripts and other records. 

  • The applicant may be asked to submit copies of reports, documents, manuscripts, or creative media from their field experience.

  • Probationary admission may be granted for a specified time to confirm an applicant's ability to succeed in the program. Probationary students must attain an overall average of 75% in their courses to remain in the program.

  • Applicants who do not meet standard admission requirements may be asked to complete a specified qualifying program of undergraduate courses. This will help prepare them for their proposed program of studies. They will have to achieve an average of 75% in their qualifying program, after which they can apply to enter the MTS.

  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable: TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5).

Applicants who do not meet these requirements, but demonstrate aptitude for such studies, may be admitted after meeting the requirements of probationary or transitional admission or completing a qualifying program as deemed appropriate by the Admissions Committee. Contact us to learn more or visit this page.

Admission procedure

  1. Contact the TS office and let us know that you're considering applying to the program. This makes it possible to clarify many important issues about the program, admission, funding, tuition, and courses early in the application process.
  2. Review the admission requirements and application materials. 
  3. Apply to MTS through the UWaterloo GSPA's online application. Visit the GSPA website for more information on admission requirements, acceptable references, and the application process.
  • As a part of your application, you will need to provide 3 references: 2 academic and 1 pastoral/professional. If you have questions about your references or are unable to contact academic references, please be in touch with the TS department.

      4. Once your application has been received, you will need to upload your unofficial transcripts from previous studies, a resume, and answer three TS specific questions. The TS department will then contact you to set up an interview.

  • On the Supplementary Information Form, you will be asked to briefly describe a) your interest in the Theological studies program, b) your life experiences and previous education that have prepared you for such studies, c) and your long term study and career aspirations.
  • When submitting transcripts, please ensure that they include the most recent information, including the awarding of any degree, diploma, or post-secondary certificate and all in-progress courses and grades.

      5. Upon receipt of all application documents and the completion of your interview, the TS Admissions Committee will review your application and make a recommendation for admission or non-admission to the GSPA.

      6. The GSPA will review your application and, if applicable, will send you your offer of admission.

Fees

Please see our Fees & financial aid page for information on tuition fees.

International students

Regrettably, due to funding restrictions, we cannot accommodate any new international students at the moment. Only self-funded candidates may apply. If you are an international student, please, contact Theological Studies Graduate Coordinator before applying for the program.

An English Language Proficiency test may be required for admission to the University of Waterloo. Visit the Academic Calendar for information about the English proficiency requirement.

*updated September 2025

Contact

We want to support you throughout the process of applying to the MTS program. Please contact us for more information.

Email: theological.studies@uwaterloo.ca
Phone: 519-885-0220 x24211​

Deadlines | Candidacy requirements | Admission procedure | Fees | International students | Contact