The program of study leading to the Master of Divinity degree is open to qualified students who have a Bachelors degree or its equivalent from an accredited college or university in the United States; for students from abroad this requirement may be waved. St. Sophia Seminary does not prescribe a specific program of pre-theological studies for students entering the seminary with undergraduate degrees, but it does encourage prospective seminarians to obtain a broad liberal arts education. Students in the humanities, particularly philosophy, literature, art, history, and religion, as well as the natural and social sciences should prepare the students to speak and write correctly, to think clearly, and to understand not only the modern world but also ancient and medieval civilizations. Especially useful in preparation for graduate theological study is the acquisition of a foreign language ability in Greek - the language of the Bible and the early Church - or the specific language of the student's ecclesiastical jurisdiction. Applicants whose previous studies are adjudged by St. Sophia's faculty as too technical or vocational in scope may be required to do remedial work on a non-credit basis at one of the local undergraduate colleges in the area or in the seminary's collegiate division.

An entrance examination will be administered to all entering students during their initial registration period. This exam is diagnostic rather than exclusive and will assist the registrar, academic dean, and faculty in devising the appropriate curriculum for each student. The M. Div. Entrance examination presumes an elementary knowledge of Bible content, Orthodox liturgical practice, and the history and doctrinal teachings of the Orthodox Church. A short reading list for this examination and a guide for pastors and sponsors of candidates for admission is available from the seminary academic dean

Candidates for admission must complete and submit an official application, which may be obtained by writing to the seminary registrar. The application and supporting documents must be forwarded to the registrar no later than June I for admission in the fall semester and November I for admission mid-year in the spring semester. Admission decisions are made by a committee composed of the ruling hierarch of the Eastern Eparchy, regular faculty and seminary rector. A completed application will include the following supporting documents:

1. A certified copy of the applicant's baptism/chrismation certificate.
2. Official copies of all college transcripts (or secondary school transcripts for applicants to the collegiate division).
3. For applicants to the collegiate division, an official copy of test results of the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or equivalent, sent directly to the seminary.
4. A completed medical examination form and proof of health insurance coverage.
5. A letter of recommendation from the applicant's pastor testifying in particular to the applicant's spiritual maturity and moral character.
6. For applicants from ecclesiastical jurisdictions other than the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the U.S.A., a letter of recommendation from the applicant's bishop.
7. Letters of recommendation from two professors or teachers who know the applicant's academic performance.
8. A brief autobiographical essay explaining the applicant's spiritual vocation, his reasons for applying to St. Sophia Seminary, and his personal background.
9. A $50.00 non-refundable application fee payable to the seminary.