International Students
CRTS welcomes and invites applications from qualified students who come from other countries and cultures who would like to further develop in the area of Reformed theology and desire to take their knowledge back to their home country to share with Christians there.
Please read the following information carefully as it applies specifically to applicants from other countries.
CRTS submits to the infallible Word of God and is faithful to the ecumenical creeds and the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dort. Students who do not come from a sister church of the Canadian Reformed Churches will be asked to sign a declaration that they agree with the basis of the seminary.
All prospective students are required to successfully complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). At the discretion of Senate, exceptions to this requirement may be given to:
- students for whom English is their first language and who are applying from a country that is classified as having a majority of native English-speaking residents (countries that are classified as majority native English speaking include Canada, United States of America, United Kingdom, and Australia). For a full list, see here.
- students who have proof of completion of a postsecondary degree from an institution in the above-mentioned countries.
In keeping with general standards for graduate work in English, a total score of at least 86 on the internet-based test is required for admission. For information concerning the administration of TOEFL, visit www.toefl.org. The TOEFL destination code (DI) of CRTS is 5541. Test results should be sent directly to CRTS using this code.
It should be noted that prior to admission, international students must be able to demonstrate to immigration authorities adequate resources for financing their education by providing official bank statements or letters from sponsors. All international students are urged to carefully assess their ability to meet the financial requirements before applying.
CRTS does not offer scholarships.
The Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary is a Designated Learning Institute registered with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). To learn more, please visit the IRCC website at www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/study-institutions-list.asp.
On arrival, international students will be required to provide proof to the administration office that a valid study permit from IRCC was obtained. Note that a work permit is not necessary.
Non-Canadian students are required to show proof of coverage of health insurance for both themselves and their dependants before studies may commence. If it is difficult to arrange this in the country of origin then the student must arrive in Canada with a thirty (30) day travel insurance. During the 30 day period in Canada the student must make arrangements for permanent health care. The administrative office can be consulted for further information.
“As exciting as studying abroad is it can be twice as daunting. Questions from whether you could adapt to icy winters to finding new friends abound. Yet, the CRTS community and the churches in Hamilton are so welcoming. I experienced them as a great blessing from God. I cannot promise that you will never miss home, but you will miss Hamilton once you go back.”
Jonatan Boon, CRTS Student, 2025
