International Students

Academic Programs Admission Requirements For International Students

We are happy to have international students study with us at Atlantic School of Theology. We have multiple options for studying both online and in person. Please note that AST Diploma Programs do not qualify for a Canadian Study Visa

The language of instruction at AST is English. If you are not fluent in English, you will need to take English language lessons that will make you fully capable of speaking, reading, and writing English. If your ability to communicate in English is considered to be insufficient by the Faculty, you will be required to take additional English language lessons.

Additionally, you will need to apply to Immigration Canada for a Study Permit. Please visit StudyCanada.ca for contact information for your nearest Canadian Consulate or High Commission. AST expects international students to meet all government requirements and have sufficient financial resources for the duration of their studies.

Most new international students applying for a Canadian study permit must now include a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) in addition to the Letter of Acceptance for Admission with their application. This PAL is issued by the province where their chosen Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is located (NS for AST) and it confirms that they have a place to study within that region.

International students are required to pay a $5,000 CAD non-refundable admission deposit to AST once accepted. This deposit will be applied to a student's first-term tuition. The admission deposit reserves a spot at AST. Once AST receives the deposit AST will issue a Letter of Acceptance for Admission (which is required by the IRCC) and submit the request for a PAL to  the government. If you are unable to secure a student visa we will refund you the $5,000 deposit.

The academic pre-requisite for admission to the Master of Divinity Program (MDiv), Graduate Certificate Program in Theological Studies, and admission as a Special Student is a Bachelor’s Degree (or its educational equivalent) from a university recognized by the Association of Universities and Colleges in Canada or the Council for Higher Education in the United States. Applicants to the MDiv Program, Graduate Certificate Program, and as a Special Student are expected to have attained an average of at least 70% or a ‘B’ grade (or the grade point average equivalent) in their undergraduate program.

Applicants to the Bachelor of Theology program should submit a transcript indicating completion of a high school diploma or equivalent, including English 12 (or equivalent). with a minimum B average (70% or better).

Applicants who seek admission to graduate programs or credit courses without a completed Bachelor’s degree must complete a Prior Learning Portfolio to establish Bachelor's degree equivalency.

Apply for a Study Permit

To study in Canada, international students require a study permit and/or a visitor visa, issued by Canada immigration authorities. Full information on how to apply for a study permit can be found on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. The CIC website has comprehensive information on how to get a study permit, including instructions on how to:

  • Prepare to study by finding out what you need before applying for a study permit
  • Determine your eligibility
  • Apply for a study permit, including where to get application forms and guides
  • Check Processing Times
  • Get 'next steps' after you apply
  • Prepare for arrival in Canada

American citizens or permanent residents of the United States can apply for study permits at the points of entry (border or airports) into Canada.

Please contact our Recruitment Coordinator for further information: