Applicant FAQ
Thinking about becoming
a Fellow? Start here.
Answers to the questions we hear most from people considering a TFI Fellows program. Can't find yours? Reach out to a program directly, or get in touch with our team.
Applying
When should I apply?
Spots fill up quickly, so earlier is better. The Early Application Deadline is November 15, the Winter Deadline is January 15, and the Spring Deadline is March 15.
After that, programs move into rolling admissions until every spot is filled. Page 2 of the TFI Common Application shows which programs are still open.
Can I apply to multiple programs at once?
Yes — the TFI Common Application lets you apply to three Fellows programs at the same time. If none of those three works out, the TFI Reapplication Form lets you try three more. Just complete the Common Application itself only once.
Common Application or an individual program's application — does it matter which I use?
Not really — every program treats the two the same way. The Common Application's advantage is simply convenience: one form gets you in front of three programs at once.
What happens after I submit the Common Application?
You'll enter the admissions process for each of your three chosen programs individually — TFI doesn't run one centralized process. That's your chance, and theirs, to figure out if it's a good fit. It typically takes 3–5 weeks.
Choosing a Program
How do I decide which program(s) to apply to?
With more than 30 programs nationwide — big cities, small towns, near the mountains, near the beach — there's likely one that fits. Four things are worth weighing as you narrow it down:
- Location. If you're drawn to a particular city long-term, a program there is a great way to spend a year exploring it firsthand.
- Leadership. Every program has leaders worth getting to know before you commit — their wisdom and experience shape the year.
- Church(es). Each program partners with one or more Gospel-centered churches. It's worth a little research into the host church if you're torn.
- Living arrangements. Most fellows live with host families; a few programs offer shared community housing instead. Both are great ways to grow alongside others.
You can always reach out to programs directly — this form lets you contact up to five at once.
What do programs look for in an applicant?
A wide range of backgrounds, schools, and majors — there's no single mold. What tends to matter more: maturity, humility, a teachable spirit, a real eagerness to grow in faith, and follow-through. Strong academics and early signs of leadership help too.
Most programs require U.S. work eligibility (citizens or green-card holders), and generally look for applicants around 21–25 as the program begins.
Do I need a bachelor's degree? What if I already have a graduate degree?
Most programs expect a bachelor's degree, though a growing number will accept a 2-year or trade-school degree — in that case you'd take part fully in the theology coursework, just without graduate credit for it. Check with individual programs for specifics.
Already have a master's or other graduate degree? You're still welcome, as long as you fall within the local program's age range — plenty of fellows join after finishing grad school.
Admissions & Cost
How long do admissions decisions take?
It varies by program, but you should know your status within about 4 weeks of applying.
What does the program cost? Is financial help available?
Program fees range from about $4,500 to $7,500 depending on the program, and cover books, course registration, community meals, and retreats.
Most programs offer a limited number of partial scholarships, and incoming fellows are encouraged — and supported — in raising financial support to help cover the cost.
What if I'm accepted into more than one program?
A great problem to have. Program leaders across the network know each other and treat this as shared work, so they'll help you think it through together — but the final decision is always yours.