Admissions
Admissions
Answering the Call to the Priesthood — Unto the Altar of God
Admissions Process
A vocation to the sacred priesthood is first and foremost a work of God’s grace. We encourage prospective seminarians to spend time in prayer and reflection, especially seeking guidance from their spiritual director or confessor.
Step 1: Pray and Discern
Spend time before Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament; speak with your confessor or spiritual director. Ask for light to know and courage to do God’s holy will.
Step 2: Contact the Seminary
Before beginning the formal application process, interested candidates should reach out to the seminary to discuss their vocation and ask any questions they may have.
Step 3: Submit an Application
Your application includes personal background, academic history, sacramental information, and letters of recommendation.
Step 4: Interview and Evaluation
Selected candidates are invited to interview with the rector and faculty to better understand your readiness and the seminary’s expectations.
Step 5: Admission Decision
Accepted applicants receive formal notification with instructions for next steps and practical preparation for entering seminary life.
Requirements for Admission
Spiritual & Personal
- A living Catholic faith with a sincere desire to serve as a priest
- Regular sacramental life and a proven moral character
- Good physical and mental health; freedom from addictive habits
- Sound intention and the ability to live the common life of discipline and charity
- Personal letter of intention to the rector stating reasons for requesting admission
- Letters of recommendation (pastor/spiritual director)
- Certification of Baptism, Confirmation, and other sacraments
Academic & Practical
- High-school diploma or equivalent (college experience preferred but not required)
- Fluency in English; willingness to pursue Latin and philosophy studies
- Age ordinarily not over 30 years (exceptions considered case-by-case)
- Complete application forms with truthful, thorough information
- Ability to meet the daily schedule and academic rigor of the seminary
- Compliance with seminary policies and house customs
Life at Mater Dei Seminary
Seminary life is ordered around the altar: prayer, study, work, and fraternal charity under obedience.
- Daily Mass and the Divine Office (Vespers & Compline chanted)
- Spiritual formation, direction, and regular confession
- Academic classes in philosophy, theology, and the sacred sciences
- Study hall and supervised reading
- Community meals and recreation
- Morning and evening prayers (meditation, Rosary, spiritual reading)
Next Steps
Schedule a Visit
Considering the seminary but unsure if it’s the right fit? We invite you to schedule a visit and experience seminary life firsthand. Contact our admissions office to arrange your visit.
Schedule a VisitSupport a Seminarian
Even if you are not called to the priesthood, you can still play a vital role in forming future priests. Your generosity helps provide seminarians with the education, formation, and resources they need to fulfill their vocation. Consider contributing to our seminary today.
DonateFrequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for admission?
Mater Dei Seminary generally accepts applicants who have completed high school and are at least 18 years old. Candidates over 30 may be considered case-by-case, taking into account their formation and discernment.
Is there tuition or financial assistance available?
Mater Dei Seminary relies on the generosity of benefactors, which helps minimize costs for seminarians. While there is no traditional tuition, seminarians are encouraged to seek sponsorships from their home parishes or benefactors. Foreign students may be eligible for the Mater Dei Seminary Scholarship Fund.
Can international students apply?
Yes. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency and satisfy any visa requirements. Mater Dei Seminary is SEVP-certified in SEVIS; please contact us early for timelines and documentation.
What is the application deadline?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Early contact is recommended to allow time for interviews and documentation.
What does the daily schedule look like for seminarians?
A seminarian’s day is ordered around prayer, study, and community life: Morning Prayer, Daily Mass, classes (philosophy, theology, Latin, liturgy), spiritual direction and meditation, communal meals, recreation, and the Divine Office.
May I visit the seminary before applying?
Yes. Prospective seminarians are welcome to schedule a visit to experience seminary life firsthand.
What should I bring when entering?
A detailed packing list is provided upon acceptance. Please bring sacramental records and any documents requested by admissions.
Will I have time to visit family during formation?
Yes, seminarians are allowed designated times to visit family, particularly during breaks and holidays. However, the seminary’s primary focus is on formation, and seminarians are expected to prioritize their spiritual and academic development.
What if I discern that the priesthood is not my calling?
Discernment is a sincere search for God’s will. The faculty will assist you in making a peaceful, honest decision and support you in the transition if needed.
How can I support the seminary if I am not called to the priesthood?
Pray for vocations, promote the seminary, or materially assist formation. Visit our Donate page for sponsoring a seminarian and other options.
Contact Admissions
For questions or to begin the application process, please reach out. We will respond and help you determine the next best step. May God bless you!