Each year, the Ecumenical Scholarship supports one outstanding international applicant who wishes to pursue a year of advanced theological study at Union as part of our Master of Sacred Theology (STM) program. The award provides a full-tuition scholarship to pursue the STM program, as well as a generous stipend that covers housing, health insurance, books, and other living expenses during your year of study.
Scholarship Eligibility
- The Ecumenical Scholarship can be awarded under either of the following two programs: (1) the Shriver-Leu Ecumenical Fellowship (for a qualified student from Africa or another developing nation) or (2) the Norimatsu Ecumenical Fellowship (for a student from Korea or Japan)
- Possess a strong academic record
- Be an applicant to the Master of Sacred Theology degree program at Union Theological Seminary.
How to Apply
- Submit your Ecumenical Scholarship essay. The Ecumenical Scholarship Essay is included in the financial aid section of the UTS online application; there is no separate application.
- Submit your STM degree program application using our online application.
Deadline: December 1, 2026
- (International STM applicants who are not applying for the Ecumenical Scholarship may submit their STM application until January 15, 2027)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Master of Sacred Theology Program?
The STM is a one-year, full-time, advanced master’s degree program. The program has a relatively open structure, which allows you to tailor your courses to your theological field of interest. As a whole, Union’s curriculum intentionally engages disparities in society based on gender, race, class, sexuality, and other marginalizing forces.
What are the qualifications required to be admitted to the Master of Sacred Theology Program at Union?
STM applicants are required to hold a US bachelor’s degree or equivalent, as well as a graduate degree in fields related to religion and theology from an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent from another country. We expect that the applicant will have received at least 2 years of distinguished graduate studies in religion and obtained a very thorough grounding in biblical, theological, and historical subjects.
Am I eligible to work on campus during the program?
Yes! International students can work part-time for a maximum of twenty hours per week on Union’s campus and at our neighboring school, Columbia University.
Where can I find a job on campus?
Part-time jobs are available on campus, such as the chapel support, peer chaplain, mailroom, facilities, or as a student life assistant, etc.
Am I allowed to work off-campus during my year of study in the STM program?
No. New STM students are not able to work off-campus during the degree program. After your degree has been completed, students are invited to apply for optional practical training (OPT), which is temporary employment that is directly related to an F-1 student’s major area of study. Eligible STM students can apply to receive up to 12 months of OPT employment authorization after completing their academic studies (post-completion). If you are authorized for post-completion OPT, you must work part-time (at least 20 hours per week) or full-time. More information becomes available from the Office of Student Affairs in the spring of your final semester at Union.
Is it possible to find housing on or close to campus?
Yes. Union has on-campus housing available in Hastings Hall, which provides dorm, studio, as well as one-and two-bedroom units. STM students also have the option of living off campus. Students can apply to live at International House, a nearby residential facility that provides housing for students attending school in New York City. You are also able to seek other forms of off-campus housing.