Applying to the Institute
Applications for IBS degree and certificate programs can be completed online using the links and instructions below. Official transcripts, evidence of prior study, and letters and reference are required for all programs. Be sure to review state authorization information before applying to an IBS program.
Application Deadlines
Degree program priority deadline for fall admissions:
- March 1
Degree program applicants may apply for spring entrance by November 1; however, please note that some institutional grants may not be available.
Certificate program deadlines:
- June 1 for fall entrance
- November 1 for spring entrance
Apply Online Today
Choose your program. You will be prompted to enter your contact information on a new screen. This will set up an application for you in our online system, Populi.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions?
The Institute of Buddhist Studies offers two graduate degree programs and five graduate certificate programs.
Our M.A.B.S. and M.Div. programs are ideal for students looking for careers in Buddhist ministry, chaplaincy, and further graduate or doctoral work in academic Buddhist Studies.
Our certificate programs support degree program students or can be taken as stand-alone programs with a focused study in a specific tradition (Jōdo Shinshū, Zen, Theravada) or a specific topic (chaplaincy).
Overviews of our educational programs can be found on the Academics page.
You can start your online application today! Once you’ve entered your information, you’ll be directed to our student portal, Populi, where you can upload transcripts, your statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
Be sure to review the catalog and apply before the posted deadlines. And contact our admissions office with any additional questions.
Applications for degree and certificate programs are reviewed by our faculty Admissions Committee to ensure that applicants are a good match for our programs and that we have the resources to support your educational goals. Read more about the application process here.
Yes! In addition to a number of online courses offered every semester available to special students and auditors (see enrollment options), all of our certificate programs and our M.A.B.S. degree program may be completed full online, in person, or in hybrid modalities.
The M.A.B.S. program is available as an online program, but there is a 50% residency requirement for the Master of Divinity degree program. This means that at least 50% of courses counted towards that degree program must be taken in California. Additionally, many of our degree program classes, such as Spiritual Care, are only offered in person.
See this page for complete information on current tuition and fees.
Yes! Most students who apply receive scholarships which reduce tuition costs. The application for scholarships is part of the admissions application. Find more scholarship information here including IBS grants for our study abroad program at Ryukoku Univeristy, Kyoto, and travel grants for academic conferences.
Yes! The Rev. Dr. Seigen Yamaoka Memorial Dormitory was recently remodeled and is available for all IBS students at below market rates.
Yes! All of our classes are open to members of the community who may enroll either as a special student or auditor. Special students pay the regular tuition rate and will receive a record (grade) for the course, but do not have full privileges of degree or certificate students (library access or academic advising). Auditors, with permission of the faculty, can take any course at a reduced rate but will not receive credit. Learn more about these policies on our website and in our catalog.
Unfortunately, not at this time for on-site programs. International students may apply for admissions into our online programs.
GRE scores are optional for the M.Div. and M.A.B.S. program applications.
GRE scores are not required for certificate program applications.
Learn more about the admissions process.
Most of your questions can be answered by reviewing our website or our catalog. If you have other questions, please feel free to reach out to our Admissions Office.