Affording Seminary

Affording Seminary

Financing a seminary education can be a challenge, but not impossible. In fact, a Perkins education is a valuable investment in developing your call to ministry. We offer a range of financial aid options that can help you pursue your vocation without being burdened by a large debt. 

The Office of Enrollment Management team is ready to work with you to make your seminary experience affordable. Explore our financial resources: 

When you apply for admission, you are automatically considered for scholarship assistance. You will receive information about your scholarship award soon after notification of your acceptance to Perkins.

We suggest that you also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine your qualifications for assistance from other sources and loan programs. 

Financial Literacy Tips for Seminary Students

Perkins offers a free financial literacy program to all students that provides resources and guidance on financial planning, debt management and other financial topics.

Our 6-week book study, using Saving Grace: A Guide to Financial Well-Being, twice a year for students to learn more about tracking expenses and income, giving and saving and understanding debt.

Students can also access other financial literacy resources, such as personal finance websites and books, to help them develop the skills they need to manage their finances effectively.

For more information on financial aid at Perkins, contact Christina Rhodes, Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management, at 214-768-3411 or csrhodes@smu.edu. 


  • 98%

    Percentage of master's degree-seeking students receive scholarship assistance from Perkins.

  • $14,310

    Average annual award granted to full-time, degree-seeking students

  • 2 Weeks

    Time it takes to receive notification of your scholarship award once your completed application is submitted

How will I pay for my education?

Information on financial assistance, payment options and ways to manage your money.

"My decision to [go to Perkins] was partly based on the financial support that I will receive. I wanted to make sure that I could manage my debt."

—Bryce Blank (Master of Divinity, Class of 2022)