Theological Education Scholarship Fund for Racial-Ethnic Students

Purpose

This scholarship fund supports racial-ethnic students pursuing ministry in the Reformed Church in America. Gifts given to this fund date back to the early 1800’s. Prioritizing thoughtful and theologically trained leaders was the vision for furthering faith communities throughout the denomination.  

This same spirit continues to drive this scholarship fund today. To prioritize thought leaders of the Reformed Church in America, we believe we must continue providing funds toward advancing the leadership skills through theological seminary studies. If you are a racial-ethnic leader interested in pursuing theological training, this scholarship is for you. As a recipient of the scholarship fund, our expectation is that you will continue to lead, empower, and equip disciples of Christ for the Kingdom of God within the RCA.  

A scholarship may be awarded to the same student multiple times during their course of study if they meet the criteria, reapply for the scholarship, and are selected. Leaders who meet the criteria below are strongly encouraged to apply.

The application deadline for the 2026-2027 academic year is July 31, 2026.

Requirements for application

Applicants must:

  • Be a member of an active RCA church
  • Be enrolled and in good standing at NBTS, WTS, or other appropriate theological institution
  • Intend to serve Christ in ministry and mission within the RCA; this will be the most important factor in the decision, though it will be understood in the broadest sense. 
  • Complete the following application process and submit no later than July 31, 2026

Applications must include:

  • The application form, which includes verification of church and academic standing.
  • The student’s transcript from current institution (or resume/CV if first year) and/or acceptable record of study
  • A brief essay or description of calling and vision, which outlines the student’s call to ministry and higher learning (i.e., statement of faith, vision for ministry, dreams, goals, and motivation for attending seminary or equivalent program). This should be a minimum of 500 words.
  • Name and contact information of one reference who can speak to the student’s spiritual development and academic promise

Apply for a scholarship

Submit an application

Contributions to the Theological Education Scholarship Fund for Racial-Ethnic Students may be sent to:

Reformed Church in America
4500 60th St. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Attn.: Theological Education Scholarship Fund for Racial-Ethnic Students 

For more information contact Alina Coipel at acoipel@rca.org.

Application process

  • Deadline for applications for the 2026-27 academic year is July 31, 2026.
  • Recipients will be notified by September 30.
  • The scholarship funds will be sent directly to the theological agency where the recipient is enrolled and must be used for coursework in that agency.

The theological agencies may be consulted regarding the final candidates. Decisions will be based on a student’s fulfillment of all the requirements and their robust, compelling vision for ministry. The intention of the student to serve Christ in ministry is the most important consideration.