Your Questions, Answered

ACADEMIC FAQs

  • While we know many people are interested in discovering more of what God has for them, Forward School of Ministry is designed for those who sense a clear call to ministry and desire to be equipped through spiritual formation, biblical instruction, leadership development, and hands-on ministry experience. If your primary goal is to study the Bible, we encourage you to explore discipleship opportunities at Forward City Church or courses through Faith International University.

  • Not at this time. Forward School of Ministry is intentionally designed as a 9-18 month program not a collection of individual classes. Each course builds upon the last to provide a holistic foundation in biblical truth, spiritual formation, leadership development, and practical ministry experience. Students are expected to participate in the full program and the life of the school as they are formed, equipped, and sent for ministry.

  • Students who complete Year One earn a Certificate in Ministry Leadership. Students who complete the full two-year program earn an Associate of Biblical Studies from Forward School of Ministry.

  • No. Forward School of Ministry is a fully in-person program in Columbia, South Carolina. Students must be able to attend classes and participate in the required on-campus schedule each week. Online-only enrollment is not available.

  • Forward School of Ministry is a nine-month, in-person program. Welcome Week begins January 12, 2027, and the first official instructional day is January 19, 2027. The final program date and graduation date will be published in the academic calendar.

STUDENT LIFE FAQs

  • FSM is designed for those who are 18 years and older & who sense a call to ministry.  We recognize because the schedule and nature of our program most students will be young adults however we welcome all those who are called to ministry to apply.

  • Yes. The weekly schedule is designed to allow flexibility for part-time employment while fully participating in the program. Please see the student experience tab to view the schedule. 

  • Students will need a Bible, laptop, notebook, and any required course books. Students are responsible for purchasing their own books and supplies.

  • Yes. Students who play an instrument must provide their own instrument and accessories.

  • Yes. Reliable transportation is strongly recommended for classes, ministry activities, outreach opportunities, and local church involvement.

  • No. Students are responsible for securing their own housing and transportation.

ADMISSIONS FAQs

  • Applicants must:

    • Be at least 18 years old

    • Have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior

    • Sense a call to ministry or desire deeper ministry training

    • Live within a 50 mile radius of Columbia, SC with the expectation of attending in person classes Tuesday-Thursday and Forward City Church services & event & community life.

  • No. Forward School of Ministry does not participate in federal financial aid programs or accept VA education benefits. However, students who enroll in courses through our academic partner, Faith International University, may be eligible for federal financial aid and other funding opportunities through FIU, based on their eligibility.

  • Enrollment opens August 9, 2026. Applications close October 18, 2026.

  • At this time, FSM is only accepting students who are authorized to study in the United States. We are not currently able to support international student enrollment or student visas.

  • No. Forward School of Ministry is an in-person discipleship and ministry school. Students attend classes and ministry training on campus Tuesday through Thursday with church service on Sundays at Forward City Church.

TUITION & FINANCES FAQs

  • Tuition is $4,950 for the academic year.

  • Yes. A non-refundable $50 application fee is required when submitting your application.

  • Yes. Flexible payment plan options are available.

  • At this time, FSM does not offer scholarships.

  • No. The FIU scholarship rate is available exclusively to students enrolled in Forward School of Ministry or eligible Forward City Church staff. Students who wish to pursue a degree without participating in FSM are welcome to apply directly to Faith International University and will follow FIU's standard tuition and fee structure.