For many aspiring pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders around the world, studying at a Bible school in the United States is a dream. The U.S. is home to some of the most respected theological institutions, offering world-class training, strong networks, and life-changing opportunities.
But there’s one challenge: cost.
Tuition and living expenses in the U.S. can be overwhelming for international students. The good news is that several Bible schools, seminaries, and Christian universities provide full or substantial scholarships that can completely change your journey.
This guide highlights the most powerful scholarship opportunities for international students who want to pursue Bible and ministry studies in America.
1. Berea College – 100% Tuition Scholarship
Berea College in Kentucky is unique—it is a Christian-inspired institution that covers the entire cost of tuition for every admitted student, including internationals.
🔑 Why Berea is special:
- Full tuition is guaranteed through scholarships and grants.
- Students participate in a work-study program (10 hours weekly) to support living costs.
- Additional need-based support is often available for housing and meals.
👉 Start here: Berea College International Admissions
2. Lebanon Valley College (LBC) – Tuition Relief for International Students
LBC provides targeted scholarships for international students in ministry and biblical programs.
📌 Scholarship benefits:
- Undergraduate students: $3,000/year tuition award.
- Graduate students: up to 30% tuition reduction.
- Renewable with a GPA of 2.3 or higher.
👉 Explore: Lebanon Valley College Scholarships
3. Word of Life Bible Institute – Affordable Pathways
Word of Life Bible Institute (New York & Florida) isn’t just a training ground—it’s a stepping stone to major Christian universities. Through partnerships with Liberty University, Cedarville University, and others, students can save $20,000–$60,000 in total tuition costs.
✔️ Highlights:
- Intense two-year Bible foundation program.
- Recognized globally, attracting international students from dozens of countries.
- Partner scholarships significantly reduce costs for degree completion.
👉 More details: Word of Life International Students
4. Oklahoma Christian University – Up to $10,000 Scholarships
Oklahoma Christian University’s Center for Biblical Studies offers one of the most generous scholarships specifically for ministry students.
🎯 Scholarship features:
- Awards of up to $10,000.
- Requires a 600–800-word essay on faith, ministry, or calling.
- Open to both U.S. and international students.
👉 Apply here: Oklahoma Christian University Bible Scholarships
5. Tennessee Bible College – Faith + Need Scholarships
Tennessee Bible College offers scholarships every quarter to international students. Awards are based on:
- Christian character
- Financial need
- Commitment to ministry
👉 Visit: Tennessee Bible College Scholarships
6. Portland Bible College – Church-Supported Aid
At Portland Bible College (Oregon), scholarships are available thanks to the generosity of its founding church. This makes it possible for internationals with limited means to still access a high-quality, Spirit-filled education.
👉 Learn more: Portland Bible College Scholarships
7. Calvin Theological Seminary – Almost Every Student Funded
With nearly 99% of students receiving scholarships or aid, Calvin Seminary in Michigan is one of the most supportive Bible schools for international learners.
Students can access:
- Tuition grants
- Mission-based scholarships
- Special international student assistance
👉 More info: Calvin Seminary Financial Aid
8. Independent Biblical Studies Scholarships
Beyond individual Bible schools, there are national-level scholarships open to international theology students:
- ELCA Fund for Leaders Scholarships – Full tuition for seminary students.
- Hoeks Family Scholarship – $5,000 for biblical studies majors.
- Davis Fellowships – Awards between $1,000–$40,000.
👉 Find more: Biblical Studies Scholarships Directory
Comparison Table – Bible School Scholarships for Internationals
| School / Program | Scholarship Value | Special Notes |
| Berea College | Full tuition + work-study | Extremely competitive, apply early. |
| Lebanon Valley College | $3,000/year or 30% grad tuition | Renewable with GPA ≥ 2.3. |
| Word of Life Bible Institute | Save $20k–$60k via transfers | Partner schools: Liberty, Cedarville. |
| Oklahoma Christian Univ. | Up to $10,000 | Requires an essay. |
| Tennessee Bible College | Need + character scholarships | Offered quarterly. |
| Portland Bible College | Church-supported scholarships | Strong ministry focus. |
| Calvin Seminary | ~99% funded students | Generous international aid. |
| Independent Scholarships | $1,000–Full Tuition | ELCA, Hoeks, Davis Fellowships. |
How to Win These Scholarships
- Apply Early – Full scholarship spots are limited.
- Demonstrate Faith Commitment – Show your passion for ministry in essays and interviews.
- Leverage Partnerships – Use schools like Word of Life to reduce overall costs.
- Prepare Financial Documentation – Most schools require proof of financial need.
- Cast a Wide Net – Apply to both institutional and external scholarships.
Final Word
Getting a Bible school full scholarship in the USA is not only possible—it’s happening every year for committed international students. With schools like Berea College offering full tuition, Oklahoma Christian University awarding up to $10,000, and seminaries like Calvin funding nearly every student, your dream of studying in America without the crushing burden of debt can become a reality.
If you feel called to ministry, don’t let finances hold you back. Start applying now, share your vision, and pursue the training that will equip you to serve globally.