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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between merit-based aid and need-based aid?

Merit-based aid is institutional grant aid that is offered to students based on the overall strength of their admissions application. Need-based grant aid is institutional grant aid that is based on an applicant’s financial aid application. The vast majority of grant aid given at Harvard Divinity School for MDiv and MTS students is need-based grant aid. Grant aid is gift aid that does not need to be repaid. 

How do I apply to Diversity and Explorations?

Applicants will be asked to provide:
  • Completed DivEx online application form 
  • Personal statement describing your interest in the program 
  • Résumé 
  • Letter of recommendation from a professor, career mentor, or faith-based leader
  • Academic transcripts

What should I provide for a writing sample?

Your writing sample should demonstrate your strengths in writing, research, and critical analysis—skills that will be directly applicable to academic work at HDS. You can choose to submit: 

  • An excerpt of an academic paper in any subject area within the humanities or social sciences. 

  • An adapted piece of professional writing. 

  • An original work that is based upon a topic that you are interested in studying here at HDS. 

You may reuse a previous work, especially...

Read more about What should I provide for a writing sample?

I have been out of school for some time, and it may be difficult to obtain an academic recommendation. How should I proceed?

Your letters of recommendation should address the ways in which your professional experience supports your goals for graduate theological study. Many of our students have been out of school and working for a number of years. In cases where applicants have extensive professional experience, they may choose to obtain a letter of recommendation from a mentor or supervisor. This letter should address the ways in which your professional experience supports your goals for graduate theological study. Your recommendation providers should also speak about your professional skills and... Read more about I have been out of school for some time, and it may be difficult to obtain an academic recommendation. How should I proceed?

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