| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Type: Private, Christian Bible college
Location: Chicago, Illinois, with additional campuses and online programs
Affiliation: Evangelical Protestant
Motto: "Study. Practice. Teach."
Programs: Offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Bible, theology, ministry, music, communications, and more
Tuition: Historically known for providing tuition-free education for full-time undergraduate students on its Chicago campus (funded by donations), though students still cover room, board, and fees
Accreditation: Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE)
Moody Theological Seminary: Offers graduate-level programs in ministry and theology
Strong Emphasis on Biblical Studies: All students receive rigorous training in Bible and theology, regardless of their major.
Ministry-Focused Education: MBI prepares students for careers in church leadership, missions, Christian education, counseling, and media ministries.
Urban Location: The main campus in downtown Chicago provides students with opportunities for urban ministry and hands-on community engagement.
Moody Radio & Publishing: Operates Moody Radio, one of the largest Christian radio networks, and Moody Publishers, which produces Christian books and resources.
Global Influence: Many pastors, missionaries, and Christian leaders worldwide have been trained at MBI.
Chicago, IL: Main campus
Michigan Campus (Moody Theological Seminary – Plymouth, MI)
Online Programs: Distance learning options available
MBI alumni have significantly contributed to Christian missions, pastoral work, education, and media. Some notable figures associated with MBI include:
Erwin Lutzer – Former senior pastor of The Moody Church
Warren Wiersbe – Theologian and Bible teacher
Jim Elliot – Missionary and martyr
Moody Bible Institute remains a respected institution within evangelical Christianity, focusing on equipping students for ministry with a deep foundation in Scripture and Christian service.
Moody Bible Institute offers Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degrees in the following areas:
1. Biblical & Theological Studies
Biblical Studies
Theology
Biblical Languages
2. Ministry & Leadership
Pastoral Ministry
Youth Ministry
Children & Family Ministry
Intercultural Studies (Missions)
Applied Linguistics (Bible Translation & TESOL)
Sports Ministry
3. Counseling & Human Services
Human Services (Christian Counseling focus)
4. Music & Worship Arts
Music (Worship & Sacred Music)
Worship and Media Arts
5. Communications & Media
Communications (Journalism, Media, and Ministry focus)
Film & Media Arts
Strategic Communication
6. Education & Teaching
Elementary Education (Teacher Licensure available)
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Moody Theological Seminary offers Master’s degrees designed for those pursuing ministry, counseling, or biblical scholarship.
Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
A comprehensive program for those entering pastoral or full-time ministry
Master of Arts (M.A.) Programs
Biblical Studies
Theological Studies
Ministry Leadership
Spiritual Formation & Discipleship
Christian Counseling
Intercultural & Urban Studies
Graduate Certificate Programs
Shorter programs for specialized ministry training
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2023-24) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biblical Studies (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free (See Notes) |
|
Theology (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Biblical Languages (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Pastoral Ministry (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Youth Ministry (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Children & Family Ministry (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Intercultural Studies – Missions (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Applied Linguistics (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Sports Ministry (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Human Services (Christian Counseling) (B.S.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Music – Worship & Sacred Music (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Worship & Media Arts (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Communications – Journalism & Media (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Film & Media Arts (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Strategic Communication (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
|
Elementary Education (B.A.) |
4 years |
Tuition-Free |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2023-24) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Divinity (M.Div.) |
3–4 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Biblical Studies |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Theological Studies |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Ministry Leadership |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Spiritual Formation & Discipleship |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Christian Counseling |
2–3 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Intercultural & Urban Studies |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
|
M.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies |
2 years |
$10,260 – $15,390 |
1. Programs Available for International Students
International students can enroll in undergraduate and graduate programs at Moody Bible Institute and Moody Theological Seminary.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Degree) Programs
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – Biblical Studies, Theology, Ministry, Worship & Music, Counseling, Education, etc.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) – Human Services (Christian Counseling)
Graduate (Master’s Degree) Programs
Master of Divinity (M.Div.)
Master of Arts (M.A.) – Biblical Studies, Theology, Christian Counseling, Ministry Leadership, etc.
2. Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Programs)
Application Deadline: Usually in February for Fall enrollment (check the MBI website for updates).
Educational Requirements: Must have completed high school (or equivalent).
English Proficiency Tests (One Required):
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum 80 (iBT)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
Statement of Faith & Testimony: MBI requires applicants to write about their Christian faith, beliefs, and ministry goals.
Pastoral or Church Reference: A recommendation from a pastor or church leader is required.
Graduate (Master’s Programs – Moody Theological Seminary)
Bachelor’s Degree Required: A four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution.
English Proficiency Tests: Same as undergraduate requirements.
Letters of Recommendation: Academic or pastoral recommendations.
MBI generally follows these application deadlines:
Term |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (August Start) |
February 1 |
|
Spring Semester (January Start) |
October 1 |
|
Graduate Programs |
Rolling Admissions |
Graduate program deadlines may vary. Check Moody's official website for updates.
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Apply online at www.moody.edu/apply.
There is no application fee for undergraduate programs.
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Applicants must have completed high school (U.S. equivalent).
Transcripts must be in English or officially translated.
Statement of Faith & Testimony
Moody requires students to write about:
Personal Christian faith & salvation testimony
Ministry involvement & future ministry goals
Agreement with Moody’s doctrinal statement
Pastoral or Church Leader Reference
A letter of recommendation from a pastor, mentor, or church leader confirming your Christian faith and character.
English Proficiency Test (For International Students)
TOEFL: Minimum 80 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
Transcripts (International Students Only)
Non-U.S. students must submit evaluated transcripts through a service like WES (World Education Services).
Step 3: Admissions Interview (If Required)
Some applicants may be invited for an interview via phone or Zoom with an admissions counselor.
Step 4: Receive Admission Decision
Admission decisions are usually announced within 2–4 weeks after submitting all required documents.
Step 5: Apply for Financial Aid & Scholarships
Tuition-Free Model: Full-time undergraduate students receive tuition-free education.
Students must pay for room, board, and other fees ($14,000 – $17,000 per year).
Scholarships & Grants: Apply for financial aid at Moody’s Scholarship Page.
Step 6: Accept Offer & Pay Deposit
If accepted, students must confirm their enrollment and submit a $350 housing deposit (for on-campus students).
Step 7: Apply for a Student Visa (For International Students)
Once accepted, MBI will issue a Form I-20 (required for an F-1 Student Visa).
Apply for a visa at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Graduate admissions are handled by Moody Theological Seminary (MTS).
Apply online at www.moody.edu/seminary/apply.
Pay the $50 application fee (non-refundable).
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript
Applicants must have a recognized undergraduate degree (B.A./B.S.).
Transcripts must be evaluated if from a non-U.S. institution.
English Proficiency Test (International Students Only)
TOEFL: Minimum 80 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo: Minimum 105
Letters of Recommendation
Two letters from pastors, professors, or employers.
Statement of Faith & Testimony
Explanation of Christian faith, calling, and ministry goals.
Some applicants may be invited for a video or phone interview.
Decisions typically take 2–6 weeks.
Graduate students are not eligible for tuition-free programs but can apply for scholarships.
MBI has two main intake periods for undergraduate and graduate programs:
Intake Term |
Application Deadline |
Program Start Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester (August Start) |
February 1 |
Late August |
|
Spring Semester (January Start) |
October 1 |
Mid-January |
|
Graduate Programs (Rolling Admissions) |
N/A |
August, January, or May |
Some graduate programs may have flexible intake dates. Always check MBI's official website for updates.
General Requirements
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Minimum GPA: 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) recommended
Strong Christian Commitment: Must demonstrate faith in Jesus Christ
Statement of Faith & Testimony: Personal essay about salvation, faith, and ministry goals
Church Involvement: Reference letter from a pastor or church leader
No Application Fee for undergraduate applicants
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
International students must submit one of the following English proficiency tests:
Test Name |
Minimum Required Score |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
80 |
|
IELTS |
6.5 |
|
Duolingo English Test |
105 |
Exemptions: Students from English-speaking countries or those who studied in English-language institutions may not need to submit TOEFL/IELTS.
Graduate programs at Moody Theological Seminary (MTS) require additional academic and faith-based qualifications.
General Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA: 2.5 – 3.0 (varies by program)
Statement of Faith & Testimony
Two Letters of Recommendation (Pastor, professor, or employer)
No GRE Required
English Language Proficiency (For International Students)
Test Name |
Minimum Required Score |
|---|---|
|
TOEFL (iBT) |
80 |
|
IELTS |
6.5 |
|
Duolingo English Test |
105 |
Graduate students may need additional coursework if their prior degree was not in theology, Bible, or ministry-related fields.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Moody Grant |
Based on financial need (FAFSA required) |
($500–$5,000) |
Automatic Consideration |
|
International Student Grant |
Need-based for non-U.S. students |
($500–$3,000) |
Requires application |
|
Legacy Grant |
Students with a parent or grandparent who attended MBI |
Up to $1,500 |
Automatic Consideration |
|
Church Match Scholarship |
MBI matches church donations up to a limit |
Up to $1,000 |
Church submits donation |
|
Music Scholarship |
For worship/music majors (audition required) |
N/A |
Audition Required |
|
Athletic Scholarship |
Based on performance in MBI’s sports programs |
N/A |
Coach Recommendation |
|
Moody Employee Dependent Grant |
For children of full-time Moody employees |
Up to 50% of expenses |
Automatic Consideration |
Note: Full-time undergraduate students at MBI Chicago receive tuition-free education, but scholarships help cover room, board, and other expenses (~$14,000–$17,000 per year).
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (USD) |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Seminary Grant |
Based on financial need (FAFSA required) |
($500–$3,000) |
Automatic Consideration |
|
International Student Grant |
Need-based for non-U.S. students |
($500–$2,500) |
Requires application |
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship |
GPA of 3.5 or higher (merit-based) |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Requires application |
|
Ministry Leadership Scholarship |
For students preparing for full-time ministry |
N/A |
Requires application |
|
Moody Alumni Grant |
For MBI alumni continuing to graduate studies |
Up to $1,500 |
Automatic Consideration |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
Downtown Chicago, Illinois, USA |
|
Total Dormitories |
Four residence halls (Male & Female separate) |
|
Housing Type |
Shared dormitory-style rooms (2–3 students per room) |
|
Dining Facilities |
Student dining hall & meal plans available |
|
Library |
Crowell Library – Extensive theological & academic resources |
|
Study Areas |
Quiet study rooms, group workspaces |
|
Fitness Center |
Gymnasium, weight room, basketball courts |
|
Spiritual Life |
Chapel, prayer rooms, discipleship programs |
|
Recreational Areas |
Student lounges, game rooms |
|
Student Organizations |
Ministry groups, worship teams, leadership programs |
|
Public Transport Access |
Close to subway (CTA), bus stops |
Expense |
Estimated Cost (USD per Year) |
|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing (Dormitory) |
$5,500 – $7,500 |
|
Meal Plan (19 meals per week) |
$4,500 – $5,500 |
|
Other Student Fees |
$2,500 – $3,500 |
|
Books & Supplies |
$800 – $1,200 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$1,500 – $2,000 |
|
Total Estimated Cost (Excluding Tuition) |
$14,000 – $17,000 per year |
Note: Undergraduate tuition is tuition-free, but students must pay for housing, meals, and fees.
Residence Hall Name |
Gender |
Room Type |
Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Culbertson Hall |
Male |
Double & Triple rooms |
Study lounges, shared bathrooms |
|
Houghton Hall |
Female |
Double & Triple rooms |
Kitchenettes, community lounges |
|
Smith Hall |
Male |
Double rooms |
Prayer rooms, fitness center access |
|
Crowell Hall |
Female |
Double rooms |
Laundry, study spaces |
All dormitories include Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, heating, and air conditioning.
1. Spiritual Life & Discipleship
At Moody, students are encouraged to grow in their faith through:
Chapel Services – Held multiple times a week with worship, teaching, and guest speakers.
Small Groups & Discipleship – Opportunities for mentoring and spiritual growth.
Prayer Gatherings – Dedicated spaces and events for corporate and personal prayer.
Missions & Outreach – Students can participate in evangelism, local missions, and international mission trips.
2. Campus Community & Activities
MBI fosters a strong sense of Christian fellowship through:
Student-Led Ministries – Worship teams, outreach programs, and Bible study groups.
Social Events & Fellowship Nights – Community gatherings, cultural events, and worship nights.
Intramural Sports & Fitness – Basketball, soccer, volleyball, and a fully equipped gym.
Leadership Development – Opportunities to serve in student government, mentoring, and ministry leadership roles.
3. Living in Chicago – Urban Ministry & Culture
MBI’s downtown Chicago location provides students with:
Ministry in an Urban Setting – Opportunities to serve in homeless shelters, youth programs, and community outreach.
Access to Chicago’s Resources – Museums, parks, and historic sites for exploration.
Public Transportation – Close access to CTA buses and trains for easy city travel.
Internships & Career Opportunities – Networking with churches, ministries, and media organizations.
4. Student Housing & Community Life
Students live in dormitory-style housing, fostering deep friendships and accountability.
Residence halls have study lounges, prayer rooms, and recreational spaces.
Regular floor events, prayer nights, and group activities strengthen community bonds.
5. Work Opportunities & Internships
On-Campus Jobs – Students can work part-time in cafeterias, libraries, and administrative offices.
Internships with Moody Radio & Moody Publishers – Hands-on experience in Christian media and publishing.
Church & Ministry Internships – Opportunities to serve in local churches and ministries.
6. Student Support & Resources
Academic Advising – Support for coursework and career planning.
Counseling Services – Available for personal, emotional, and spiritual support.
Health & Wellness – Fitness center, medical resources, and mental health support.
1. Career & Ministry Opportunities for Graduates
MBI graduates pursue careers in various fields, including:
Pastoral Ministry – Serving as pastors, church leaders, and ministry directors.
Missionary Work – Working with international missions, church planting, and outreach.
Christian Counseling – Serving in biblical counseling, human services, and mental health ministries.
Worship & Music Ministry – Worship leaders, church musicians, and Christian artists.
Teaching & Education – Elementary education, Christian schools, and ESL (TESOL).
Media & Communications – Christian journalism, film, broadcasting, and publishing.
Nonprofit & Humanitarian Work – Working with Christian relief organizations and NGOs.
2. Internship & Practical Ministry Experience
MBI requires students to gain hands-on experience before graduation through:
Practical Christian Ministry (PCM): All students must serve in local churches, youth programs, shelters, or evangelism ministries each semester.
Internships: Moody students intern at churches, mission agencies, Christian media outlets, and nonprofit organizations.
Moody Radio & Moody Publishers: Students interested in Christian broadcasting, publishing, and media gain real-world experience.
Global Missions & Outreach: Many students engage in short-term or long-term missions.
3. Career Support & Networking
MBI provides career assistance through:
Moody Career Development Center: Helps students with resume writing, job searches, and career counseling.
Job & Ministry Fairs: Hosts events where churches, mission agencies, and Christian organizations recruit students.
Alumni Network: A strong global network of pastors, missionaries, and Christian leaders provides connections and mentorship.
4. Notable Employers & Ministry Partners
MBI graduates work with:
Churches & Denominations (Baptist, Evangelical Free, Assemblies of God, etc.)
Christian Media & Publishing (Moody Radio, Moody Publishers, Christianity Today)
Mission Organizations (Wycliffe Bible Translators, Samaritan’s Purse, Youth With A Mission)
Nonprofits & Humanitarian Groups (World Vision, Compassion International)
Schools & Christian Education (Christian elementary/high schools, seminaries)
5. Graduate School & Seminary Opportunities
Many MBI graduates continue education at top theological institutions such as:
Moody Theological Seminary (MTS)
Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS)
Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS)
Wheaton College Graduate School
Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (SBTS)
Moody Bible Institute (MBI) has a moderately selective admissions process, with an estimated acceptance rate of around 60-65%. This means that more than half of applicants are accepted, but admission is not guaranteed.
MBI evaluates applicants based on:
Christian Commitment – Applicants must demonstrate a personal faith in Jesus Christ and a desire for ministry or Christian service.
Academic Performance – A minimum GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) is recommended.
Statement of Faith & Testimony – Applicants must submit an essay describing their salvation experience, faith journey, and ministry goals.
Church Involvement & Recommendation – A pastoral or church leader reference is required to confirm active church participation.
English Proficiency (For International Students) – Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL (80 iBT) or IELTS (6.5) scores.
Applicants may be denied admission if they:
Do not meet the Christian faith and doctrinal agreement requirements.
Have a low academic record or incomplete application.
Fail to provide a strong pastoral/church reference.
Undergraduate Programs (B.A./B.S.): 60–65% acceptance rate.
Graduate Programs (M.A./M.Div.): Slightly more competitive, with a focus on prior theological education and ministry experience.
Note: Moody Bible Institute offers tuition-free undergraduate education, making it attractive to many students, which may increase application competition.
Moody Bible Institute (Main Campus)
Address:
820 N. LaSalle Blvd, Chicago, IL 60610, USA
Located in downtown Chicago, in the Near North Side neighborhood.
Close to public transportation, making it easy to explore the city.
Surrounded by churches, ministry organizations, and urban outreach opportunities.
Offers on-campus housing, dining, library, fitness center, and chapel services.
