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Application Process

We’re thrilled that you’ve decided to apply to Perkins School of Theology. Before you start your application, keep in mind that:

  • You must complete each section of the application.
  • The sections do not have to be completed in order. You can save your application and come back later to add or change information.
  • Once you’ve submitted your application, you can no longer make changes.
  • Your application must include a resumè, writing samples, transcripts and recommendations.

Review the applications steps before you get started to be sure you’ll have all the information and documents you need to complete the online forms. You may also want to look at our degrees at a glance before you begin. If you are an international student, be sure to learn about some requirements and considerations that may affect you.

Applications are reviewed throughout the year, but we encourage you to apply early to ensure your materials are received in a timely manner and to have the best opportunity to be awarded one of our merit-based scholarships. (Learn more about financial aid options.) 

 See more submission dates 

Admission Requirements by Degree

Applicants for the above degree programs must have completed an undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale in a well-balanced, pre-theological curriculum. Other considerations include seriousness of purpose, potential for growth in the preparation for the profession of ministry (M.Div. and M.A.M only), emotional stability, and likelihood of satisfactory performance in the degree program.

A cumulative G.P.A. of at least 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is required for admission to the Master of Sacred Music program. The concentration in Liturgical Musicology requires a cumulative G.P.A. of at least 3.5 for admittance and that the student maintain at least a 3.5 for all graduate work. Although one application is made through Perkins School of Theology, successful applicants for the M.S.M. program are accepted by both the Division of Music in the School of the Arts and the School of Theology. 

Applied Concentrations

•Choral Conducting: Submit a 20 minute video link(s) and writing sample

•Composition and Arranging: Submit links to recordings, PDF of scores, and goal statement

•Keyboards: Register for an audition on campus or submit a recorded audition

•Organ: Register for an audition on campus or submit a recorded audition

Academic Concentrations

• Music Education: Submit a 20 minute video link(s), writing sample and schedule interview with sarahallen@smu.edu

•Worship Arts: Register and submit a writing sample

•Liturgical Musicology: Register and submit a writing sample

 Further instructions for application materials for each concentration may be found by clicking here. From this link you may select “Audition Requirements” and “Academic Concentration Requirement.”

Applicants for the Th.M. degree program must have successfully completed an Association of Theological Schools - accredited degree at the master's level requiring at least 2 years of full-time study or the equivalent credential from an institution outside the U.S. and Canada. Academic ability, as shown by a minimum GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) in a previous master's-level program, is required.

(non-degree programs)

Applicants must have a B.A. or equivalent degree and who wish to take courses for credit but who do not wish to enter a degree program may seek admission to Perkins as non-degree student. Application, official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate academic work, two letters of reference and an explanation of the proposed plan of study indicating the courses desired is required.

Questions? Contact our office at 214-768-8436 or PerkinsEnrollment@smu.edu.

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"When I was searching for a seminary, I was looking for one that wouldn't just place me in an echo chamber. Perkins created a safe environment of discourse where I could interact with a wide range of theological material. My peers and mentors added to the conversion with their own diverse perspectives on God. They met me and challenged me in all the unique ways I exist in the world."

—Michaela Calahan (Master of Divinity, Class of 2024)