Advance Women's Ministry
with Westminster's MATS

Who this is for

Westminster’s Advancing Women’s Ministry Leadership Scholarship supports those called to serve faithfully in women’s ministry. This financial aid opportunity is ideal for:

  • Women's ministry leaders and coordinators in local churches
  • Bible study teachers
  • Intentional disciplers
  • Missionaries
  • Ministry staff
  • Counselors, writers, and educators serving women's discipleship

Why Westminster and MATS

Christian women regularly find themselves in positions of great relational influence at home, at work, in ministry, and elsewhere in the world around them, thanks to their unique God-given roles and responsibilities. Many of these areas represent significant opportunities for advancing the Gospel, but given their non-paid or non-vocational nature, are less likely to drive a high volume of women to pursue graduate level theological training. However, because Westminster exists to train specialists in the Bible to proclaim the whole counsel of God for Christ and his global church, we want to make robust theological training more accessible to those who desire to go deep, but may lack the finances to do so.

Our Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) grounds you deeply in Scripture and forms a solid theological foundation from which you can serve.

In this program, you will:

  • Explore the timeless depths of Scripture from perspectives rooted in the rich heritage of church history and biblical orthodoxy
  • Grow under seasoned faculty with decades of ministry experience
  • Join a community committed to discipling and serving others faithfully

About the scholarship

  • Award amount: 25% of tuition per term (approximately $506.25 per 3-credit course; $168.75 per credit)
  • Number of awards: Two (2) recipients per term through January 2027 (program evaluated then)
  • Program: Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) at Westminster Theological Seminary
  • Purpose: Remove financial barriers so women's ministry leaders can be equipped to serve women in the church, to the glory of God

Results you can expect

  • Deeper biblical and theological grounding for teaching and discipleship
  • Confidence to lead and support women's ministry with wisdom and humility
  • A network of peers and mentors committed to gospel-centered ministry

The next application deadline is 5/30/26

Eligibility

To be considered applicants must:

  • Be admitted to the MATS program
  • Demonstrate leadership potential in ministry to women
  • Begin studies in the term for which they are admitted (Deferrals are not eligible)
  • Selection is based on leadership, theological alignment, academeic potential, and financial need. Selection is not based on sex.

What you'll submit:

  • Completed Women's Minsitry Scholarship application form
  • Pastoral or ministry leader recommendation that "Recommends with Enthusiasm"
  • Personal Essay (500-700 words) describing your calling, leadership experience, and future ministry goals related to serving women

Continuing eligibility (after you're awarded):

  • Enroll in a course each term (barring exceptions approved by the MATS Program Director)
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Note: If you must withdraw from a course, continued eligibility will be reviewed case by case
  • Scholarship applies only to approved MATS tuition (not transferable to other programs)

Key Dates

  • Applications open: March 2026
  • Upcoming term application deadline: 5/30/26
  • Decision notifications: [Date]

How to Apply

  • Apply to MATS
    -Submit your MATS application and supporting materials.
    -If you're already admitted, proceed to Step 2.
  • Apply for the Scholarship
    -Complete the online scholarship form.
    -Ask your pastor/ministry leader to submit a recommendation with "Recommends with Enthusiasm."
    -Upload your 500-750 word essay on calling, leadership, and ministry goals.
  • Enroll and remain eligible
    -If selected, you'll receive award details and next steps to enroll for your admitted term.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a woman to receive this scholarship?

No. Selection is not based on sex. The scholarship supports men and women preparing to lead and support women's minsitry

Can I defer my admission and keep the scholarship?

No. Recipients must begin in the term for which they are admitted.

How many students receive the scholarship?

Two students per term through January 2027, after which the scholarship will be evaluated.

How much is the award?

25% of tuition per term (approximately $506.25 per 3-credit course). The award applies only to MATS tuition for approved courses.

Can this scholarship be combined with other aid?

In many cases, yes. Financial aid packages are reviewed holistically. Speak with our team to understand how aid can stack in your situation.

What if i need to skip a term?

Please email the MATS Director to request approval in advance. Exceptions may be granted; otherwise eligibility may lapse.

What if i withdraw from a course?

Continuing eligibility will be determined by the MATS Director on a case-by-case basis.

Contact

Questions about eligibility, deadlines, or stacking aid?

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