Through the generosity of numerous individuals, churches, and foundations, McMaster Divinity College is able to provide substantial financial aid to qualifying students.
At McMaster Divinity College, we combine affordable tuition rates and funds available through our financial aid program to ensure that our students can proceed through their program without incurring a burdensome debt load.
Each year, we award approximately half a million dollars in financial assistance to our students. These funds are given as a gift and do not need to be repaid. Eligibility for aid is based on a variety of factors, including demonstrated financial need, previous academic performance, and course load. Students who take more courses in a year are often eligible for a higher percentage of aid.
The purpose of our Financial Aid program is to ensure students can pursue theological education, regardless of their financial circumstances. We encourage all students requiring financial assistance to apply.
Financial Aid deadlines are as follows:
All PhD students/applicants – February 1
All other current/returning students – May 1
New program applicants – June 1
Questions? Contact mdcfinaid@mcmaster.ca.
Financial Aid By Program
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
Eligible PhD students are awarded $4,000 to $5,000 per year in need-based financial aid and can also receive merit scholarships up to $6,000 each year. All PhD students are encouraged to apply for Graduate Assistant positions to earn additional monies. See Graduate Assistant (GA) Placements below.
Master of Arts (Christian Studies)
Eligible MA students can be awarded up to 20% of tuition in financial assistance.
Doctor of Practical Theology
Eligible DPT students can be awarded up to 20% of tuition in financial assistance.
Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies, Graduate Certificate, Diploma in Ministry
Eligible students are awarded aid based on demonstrated need and their course load for the year. Part-time students who are eligible can receive up to $500, while eligible full-time students can receive up to $2,600, or nearly 40% of tuition costs. Additional funding may be available for residents of Ontario.
In addition to Financial Aid, there are other forms of financial assistance available to students. See below for more information.
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) – Loan
Students enrolled in the PhD, MA, MDiv, MTS, Graduate Certificate, or Graduate Diploma programs may be eligible for loans, grants, or awards granted under the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). When applying for OSAP, choose McMaster Divinity College as your institution. MDiv and MTS students who began their programs prior to Fall 2020 should select McMaster University as their institution.
For questions regarding OSAP, contact MDC’s Financial Aid Office at mdcfinaid@mcmaster.ca. Students who are required to apply through McMaster University should contact the MMU OSAP Office at sfas@mcmaster.ca.
Academic Achievement Awards
Students who show exceptional ability in specified areas may receive additional prizes and awards at the end of each academic year.
Graduate Assistant (GA) Placements
Eligible students may apply to work as a Graduate Assistant for faculty and staff, up to a maximum of 10 hours per week. These placements are awarded on a competitive basis to students in good academic standing and are most often awarded to PhD and MA students. Students must be enrolled full-time to qualify. Students will be notified of positions available and when the application process opens.