Last updated October 14th, 2024
Admissions & Tuition
General Admissions
- Each applicant must be at least 18 years of age at the time of registration.
- Each applicant must submit their undergraduate degree transcript and diploma in the English Language. Non-English language Transcripts must be translated and submitted for evaluation by the World Education Services (WES). Average GPA of 3.0 in USA and the equivalent of 85% or a “B” worldwide.
- Evidence of passing English language proficiency requirements by satisfying one of the following categories:
- Native speaker.
- Graduation from an English-speaking institution in USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, or any other country whose native language is English.;
- Graduation from an English-speaking institution worldwide (i.e. American University in Cairo).
- A GCSE or iGCSE graduate with at least a “C” grade in English.
- An IB Diploma graduate.
- IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, with nothing lower than 5.5 in any of the four elements (listening, speaking, reading and writing).
- TOEFL iBT score of 78, with nothing lower than 17 in any of the four elements (listening, speaking, reading and writing). Equivalency Guide: (TOEFL 550/ TOEFL CBT 213/TOEFL iBT 78).
- The Admissions Committee reserves itself the right to take into consideration other proofs of English proficiency not stated above. In such event, the University might offer a conditional admission to the student providing they maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 in the first academic term
- Submit two professional or academic letters of recommendation.
- Complete Admission application and financial declaration forms.
- Payment of Admission Application Fee. Fees can be paid by visiting https://htc.agora.edu/online-application/
- Successfully pass an interview with the Admissions Committee.
- Submit a letter of intent detailing your reasons for joining the program.
- All applicants must submit a 2000-word writing sample.
- All applicants must submit a Government issued Photo ID.
- All applicants must submit a passport sized photograph (in JPEG format, recent color photo, plain/white background, bright, centered/front view of full face, eyes open and visible and cropped from just above the top of the head to the collarbone
- Submit an updated Resume/CV
Agora University accepts foreign transcripts from universities officially recognized by their respective governments in their country of residence. An official stamped and sealed transcript is required from all foreign students.
ThD Admissions Prerequisites
In addition to all general admissions requirements listed above, the following prerequisites are required for students entering the Doctor of Theology (ThD) program. In some cases, exceptional students who have not met all prerequisites for the ThD program may be provisionally accepted into the program and invited to complete the requisite courses prior to beginning participation in doctoral seminars.
- A master’s degree in a theology related discipline (M.Div., M.T.S., M.A.T., Th.M., or similar) or a master’s degree with substantial coursework in theology with a minimum of 3.0 GPA.
- Research language competence in at least one relevant modern language from the following list: Arabic, French, German, Italian, Modern Greek, Modern Hebrew, or Russian.
- Knowledge of Classical Greek. Students without a knowledge of Classical Greek may be admitted to the program, provided that they learn Greek prior to advancing to candidacy.
Application Phase:
Students interested in applying to the ThD program must supply the following materials:
- Official transcripts from an accredited college or university.
- Resume or CV.
- Statement of Purpose: It must include a research project proposal, which must be approved by the doctoral supervisor.
- 2 Letters of Recommendation.
Transfer Credit
Agora University may consider for transfer coursework completed at accredited institutions of post- secondary education whose accrediting agencies are recognized by the European Union or by an agency recognized by CHEA. Only coursework completed at a C average or better may be considered for transfer after a review by, and at the discretion of the Dean. Students will need to provide a transcript for all accredited coursework taken and indicate a desire to transfer coursework before enrolling in the current term. A maximum of 50% of graduate coursework can be transferred. A minimum of 50% of graduate coursework must be undertaken at Agora University.
Coursework earned at a non-accredited institution may be submitted for review with an official transcript and course descriptions. Coursework earned at non-accredited institutions will be considered on a case by case basis by the Academic Dean. In most cases, refusal to transfer work will be based on content or academic standards incompatible with the courses required for graduation at Agora University.
Please note that Agora University courses might not be transferable to other institutions. It is only at the discretion of the receiving institution to make that decision.
Special Admissions
For Certificate Programs Admissions Only
For Certificate programs, students whose primary education has been in English in an English-speaking country (see below) who have not yet attained a bachelor’s degree may be eligible for admission under specific circumstances in fulfilment of the university’s mission. Those applicants who have exhibited gifts and service verified by the church must demonstrate likely success at Agora University HTC as verified by ministerial authorities (such as one’s bishop or parish priest). This service showcase at least 3 years of full-time vocational ministry or at least 5 years of significant part-time ministry.
The special admissions process is applicable to Holy Transfiguration College. Students admitted under Agora’s special admissions process will be admitted conditionally and must pass all coursework with a B average.
Additionally, the following restrictions apply:
Students must have received their primary education in the English language in a native English-speaking country or the European Union; students admitted from non-English-speaking countries in the EU must submit TOEFL scores.
Students may take no more than 6 units per semester.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed against academic and non-academic selection criteria. Methods of assessing applications vary between courses but may include: prior and predicted academic achievement, references, personal or supporting statements, and a personal interview. Applicants may not omit any requested or relevant information, make any misrepresentation (for example, through plagiarism) or give false information at any point of the application process including after an offer is made. Should this occur the University reserves the right to dismiss the application, or withdraw an offer of admission.
Audit Student Change of Status
A student who is registered in a single course and participates in the course in which no assessment of student work is graded. University fees do not apply to auditing students. Audit students pay their full tuition.
Auditing students may petition the instructor to have their work and participation graded. Students who have successfully audited a course and earned a passing grade and provided all application materials may submit a change of status request to the registrar (registrar@agora.edu) to be regarded as a regular student.
Upon a change of status from being an auditing student to a regular student, Library and Technology fees will be billed to the student account.
Technology Requirements
This policy was established to aid in the planning of computer purchase(s) throughout the completion of the Agora University programs.
The University strongly recommends that students entering our programs have appropriate and updated mid-range consumer-grade laptop. Students should consider using a laptop that is already owned or another existing computer if possible. If you do not have access to a laptop already and must purchase a new one, we have some recommendations below. Again, please note that if you already have a laptop it does not need to meet the specifications below. These specifications are only for people who don’t already have access to a laptop and must purchase a new one. Some courses in the university may require a more robust system, so be sure to verify any class/software requirements before making a purchase. The University will update these specifications on an annual or biannual basis to match advances in software and hardware requirements.
Example minimum hardware specs:
- Intel ® Core™ i5 (4 cores recommended)
- 4GB Memory
- 256GB Hard Drive
- 15.6′′ HD Widescreen LED Display
- Wireless Network Adapter
- Microphone
- Webcam
Software Requirements:
- Operating System of Choice (i.e.. Windows or Mac)
- Word Processor of Choice (ex. Microsoft Word)
Student participation in coursework is a program level requirement. You must have access to a computer connected to the internet. If you are reading this, you probably already meet the requirements. Dial-up connections will be sufficient for accessing readings in most classes, but all courses have substantial video materials, which will display better if you have a DSL or cable connection. You may use any of the common browsers: Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. Most of our course reading materials are in PDF format. There is a link to three free PDF readers on our public information page. The PDF pages are designed for full size computers; tablets may provide an adequate display, but the materials may be difficult to read on smaller devices. We require that you have a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word. Free word-processing programs are also suitable. We require that you also have a webcam with a microphone, for identity verification and live session participation. Your internet connection must be able to transmit video. Students cannot be admitted without these technologies available. Should they lose access, they may request an incomplete (see Incomplete Policy) or a leave of absence, otherwise they shall be dropped from the program.
Enrollment
Upon receiving a Letter of Admission from Agora University, the Student will also receive an Enrollment Agreement which must be signed and returned to the University for the Admissions process to be finalized. Upon receiving the signed Enrollment Agreement, the University Registrar will enroll students in their respective courses.
1.1 NUMBER OF CREDIT HOURS
The student must complete:
- 12 credit hours to satisfy any Certificate program requirements.
- 36 credit hours to satisfy the MTS program requirements.
- 60 Credit hours to satisfy the ThD program requirements.
Normal enrollment for a graduate student is:
- Six credit hours per semester for MTS Students.
- Three to six credit hours for part-time ThD students.
- Six to Nine credit hours for full-time ThD students.
Auditing students may register in courses on an a-la-carte basis.
TYPES AND REGULATIONS OF A LEAVE OF ABSENCE
1- Personal Leave: for students who plan to take leave for one or a maximum of two semesters for personal reasons (health, financial, work-related, etc.).
2- Military Service Leave: for students who are called to active duty with the Military. Students may leave for the duration of their military assignment in active duty.
3- Study Leave: for students who are planning to take specialized pre-approved courses at another accredited institution to supplement their studies or satisfy other academic requirements of Agora University. The duration of this leave of absence is determined and pre-approved by the Dean and cannot exceed two semesters for a master’s program and cannot exceed four semesters for the doctoral program.
It is the responsibility of students to keep the Registrar apprised of their activities and to ensure that the Registrar is aware of their enrollments and progress. Any leave of absence must be approved by the Dean and submitted to the Registrar for proper filing.
ENROLLMENT STATUS
1- Enrolled
2- On Leave (officially recognized after petitioning the Dean)
3- Withdrawn (were once enrolled but have not been for one or more semesters.
4- Dismissed (officially acted upon by the Dean)
5- Graduated (once all requirements have been met and verified by the Registrar, the Director of Finance, and the Dean)
Interview Process
Upon submitting all required items and completing the application form, the Director of Admissions will send an email within 3 business days to schedule a Zoom Interview. Usually interviews are 20-30 minutes. The Interview Committee consists of the Director of Admissions and two other faculty/staff members. After the interview, the Committee will make a decision. Decisions may take up to 3 weeks.
Decisions
Agora will notify the applicant of its decision of the interview and application by email. This notification is usually made within 10 days of the completion of the Application and Interview Process, but it could take up to 3 weeks depending on the number of candidates being interviewed. The admission status made is either full admission or denied admission.
Full Admission
Full admission is offered to the applicant for which Agora has received all admission documentation as required or requested, no additional demonstration of qualification is needed, and the applicant appears to be the kind of student who would benefit from study at Agora.
Denied Admission
An applicant denied admission does not meet the qualifications for admission.
Student with Disabilities
Students must register their disability status at the time of the admission application. If a diagnosis is received after the student has been enrolled, the student must inform the registrar of the disability status. Students diagnosed with and possessing appropriate documentation of a learning disability (or other disability impairing some aspect of distance learning) are given additional time added to the due dates of assignments and examinations without penalty.
Tuition Information
General Definitions
Tuition
Charge for instruction including course content, textbooks, educational services, and instructional materials. This charge is billed 14 days before the beginning of a course.
Application Fee
This fee is required at the time of submitting an online application for admission. This fee is non-refundable.
Technology Fee
This fee is associated with supporting and maintenance of the technological services offered to students including the Learning Management System (Populi LMS), the Student Information System (Populi SIS), and the Student email account. This fee is billed once a year and is due at the beginning of every year. This fee is refundable as per the refund schedule detailed below.
Library Fee
This fee is associated with all library services offered by the University including subscription to electronic databases (i.e. LIRN, Ebscohost, JSTOR, ProQuest, etc.). This fee also includes subscription to the Virtual Librarian services to support student library requests 7 days a week. This fee is billed once a year and is due at the beginning of every year. This fee is non-refundable.
Graduation Fee
This fee is associated with processing documents (i.e. Diplomas, Transcripts, etc.) post-graduation. This fee is billed only at the successful completion of our programs after the student has completed all graduation requirements and has been approved by the office of the Registrar for graduation without having any academic or financial holds on their record. This fee is non-refundable.
Discount Groups
A special reduced rate applied to tuition charges (does not apply to University fees), which is extended to an organization or corporation who has signed a partnership agreement with the University.
Regular Certificate Student
A student who is registered in at least 3 credit hours per term. This student is expected to finish the Certificate program in 1 year.
Regular MTS Student
A student who is registered in 6 credit hours per term. This student is expected to finish the Master’s program (MTS) in 2 years.
Full-Time Doctoral Student
A student who is registered for a full-time course load as defined by the program, typically around 6-9 credit hours per trimester. Students successfully completing this course load will fulfill the requirements for the degree within the expected duration of the program, which is typically around three years.
Part-Time Doctoral Student
A student who is registered for a part-time course load as defined by the program, typically around 3-6 credit hours per trimester. Students successfully completing this course load will fulfill the requirements for the degree within the expected duration of the program, which is typically around six years.
Auditing Student
A student who is registered in a single course and participates in the course in which no assessment of student work is graded. University fees do not apply to auditing students. Audit students pay their tuition. Upon a change of status from being an auditing student to a regular student, Library and Technology fees will be billed to the student account.
Tuition Fees
Tuition for all Students
Charge | 2024/2025 Academic Year |
---|---|
Tuition per Credit Hour for MTS & Certificate Programs | $222.22 Per Credit Hour |
Tuition per Credit Hour for ThD Program | $266.66 Per Credit Hour |
Application Fee (non-refundable) | $50 |
Technology Fee (per year) | $100 |
Library Fee (per year) | $100 |
Graduation Fee (one-time after graduation) **Please note that MTS students requesting a European Union Degree through UCAM will be charged a non-refundable processing fee of $450. |
$50 |
*These tuition fees include tuition, educational services, textbooks and instructional materials
Additionally, Bishop Epiphanius Merit-based Scholarships are awarded in recognition of exceptional or outstanding academic achievement.
Discount Groups
Employees of the Alexandria School Foundation, a strategic partner of Agora University, may receive an additional 30% discount on the tuition rate if they do not participate in any need-based scholarship.
Cancellation Policy
- Charges may be refunded if a student cancels their enrollment or withdraws from a course. Cancellation or withdrawal requests should be made in writing by sending an email to the Registrar at registrar@agora.edu. Refunds will be issued using the same method of payment within 30 days from the date the University receives the student’s withdrawal request. No tuition refunds will be issued if a student has not submitted a cancellation/withdrawal request. Tuition and fees cannot be carried over to the next semester.
- A student requesting cancellation of their enrollment within 7 calendar days after signing an enrollment agreement is entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees paid except the Application Fee.
- A student requesting cancellation more than 7 calendar days after signing an enrollment agreement, but prior to beginning a course, is entitled to a refund of all tuition and fees paid minus: (i) the application fee and (ii) the library fee.
- A student requesting to withdraw from a course after the course has begun is eligible for a refund of tuition and fees paid in accordance to the schedule below.
- Agora University will issue a full refund of the tuition charges for courses that have been canceled by the University.
Sample Refund Calculation
MTS Program
If a student registered in 6 credit hours sends a withdrawal request during the fifth week of the semester, the student will receive a refund of 40% of the tuition and the Technology Fee:
Refund Percentage: 40%
Tuition Charge: $222.22 x 6 credit hours = $1333.32
Technology Fee Charge per year: $100
Technology Fee divided by number of credit hours per year: Assuming 18 credit hours per year for this sample calculation, the total Technology Fee for 1 credit hours is $5.56: $5.56 x 6 credit hours = $33.36
Total tuition and fees paid: $1,433.32
Refund: ($1333.32 + $33.36) x 40% = $546.67
ThD Program
Part-Time Th.D. Student:
If a part-time student registered in 6 credit hours sends a withdrawal request during the fifth week of the semester, the student will receive a refund of 40% of the tuition and the Technology Fee:
Refund Percentage: 40%
Tuition Charge: $266.66 x 6 credit hours = $1,599.96
Technology Fee divided by number of credit hours per year: Assuming 18 credit hours per year for this sample calculation, the total Technology Fee for 1 credit hours is $5.56: $5.56 x 6 credit hours = $33.33
Total tuition and fees paid: $1,633.29
Refund: ($1599.96 + $33.33) x 40% = $653.32
Full-Time Th.D. Student:
If a full-time student registered in 9 credit hours sends a withdrawal request during the fifth week of the semester, the student will receive a refund of 40% of the tuition and the Technology Fee:
Refund Percentage: 40%
Tuition Charge: $266.66 x 9 credit hours = $2,399.94
Technology Fee Charge per year: $100
Technology Fee divided by number of credit hours per year: Assuming 27 credit hours per year for this sample calculation, the total Technology Fee for 1 credit hours is $3.70: $3.70 x 9 credit hours = $33.33
Total tuition and fees paid: $2,433.27
Refund: ($2,399.94 + $33.33) x 40% = $973.3
Methods of Payment
- Tuition and university fees can be paid electronically online via Credit Card in USD through the Student Information System (Populi Web). Invoices are generated by the Accounting Office and sent 14 days prior to the start of a course and is due for payment 7 days prior to the course start date. Invoices are available on the SIS for the fastest, most secure, and convenient way for students to make payments online. The SIS notifies students of an invoice by sending an automated email.
- For students residing in Egypt, cash payments in USD can be made through the University’s partner in Egypt, the Alexandria School Foundation. For more information, please contact admissions@agora.edu
- Students may also contact the Accounting Office to arrange payment via Wire Transfer using the following details:
- Wells Fargo Bank Account Number: 1227255559
- Account Name: Agora University
- SWIFT/BIC code WFBIUS6S
- Wire Transfers (Domestic): 121000248
- Students may choose to make their tuition payments based on a payment plan setup with the Office of Finance, and suitable to the length of the program they are admitted to. Please note that no student is able to graduate unless they have satisfied all their financial obligations to the University.
Refund Policy
REFUND SCHEDULE FOR TUITION AND FEES FOR ALL HTC PROGRAMS
Deadline | Percentage of Tuition Refunded | Application Fee | Technology Fee* | Library Fee | Graduation Fee |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Before Week 1 | 100% | Non-Refundable | 100% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Week 1-3 | 100% | Non-Refundable | 100% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 4th Week | 50% | Non-Refundable | 50% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 5th Week | 40% | Non-Refundable | 40% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 6th Week | 30% | Non-Refundable | 30% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 7th Week | 20% | Non-Refundable | 20% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 8th Week | 10% | Non-Refundable | 10% | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
Start of 9th Week | 0% (No Refund) | Non-Refundable | 0% (No Refund) | Non-Refundable | Non-Refundable |
* Note: The Technology Fee refund is proportional to the total credits eligible to be taken during the year. For example, if the Technology Fee is $100 per year, and the regular student load is 18 credits per year, then the Technology Fee per credit hour is $5.56.
The bishop epiphanius scholarship
Questions about Scholarships?
The Bishop Epihanius Scholarship Fund offers students merit-based and need-based aid. Please inquire about the details from the Admissions team.
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Voices of Success
Read Our Testimonials
As a deacon at Saint Mary’s Coptic Orthodox Church in Ottawa, I found immense value in Dr. Emmanuel Gergis’s Introduction to Orthodox Theology and Methodology course at Agora University. Through engaging lectures and insightful discussions, Dr. Gergis broadened my understanding of Orthodox Christian perspectives, deepening my spiritual journey and intellectual growth. The course’s user-friendly approach to theological concepts, coupled with a well-structured virtual learning platform, made for an enriching experience. I highly recommend it for anyone seeking to strengthen their faith and explore theology’s profound depths.
In April 2019, I joined the Coptic Orthodox Church. In September 2023, Agora University offered an advanced online course on Orthodox theology. Initially auditing, I committed fully, captivated by Dr. Emmanuel Gergis’s insightful teaching. The course, with its diverse student body and comprehensive curriculum, addressed my questions and deepened my understanding of Church history, liturgy, and prayer. I highly recommend this enriching experience and eagerly anticipate further studies.
My experience so far at Agora has truly enriched my knowledge and spiritual life. It has allowed me and taught me to how to bring theology into everyday life. It has equipped me with the skills to be able to research and write on various contemporary topics through the lens of the Orthodox Church. Agora has enabled me to be courageous and engage with difficult contemporary issues through discussions with others. It has made me confident in being challenged in my understanding of the world and God. Through the various discussions had at the school, it has taught me the importance of allowing others free space when discussing and debating various topics.
Mike (aka Deacon Seraphim) GawargySusan LensenAlumnaVero AzizAlumna
How to Apply?
01
Apply
Complete the application form with all the required documentation.
02
Interview & Evaluation
Application evaluation and virtual in-person interview. Decisions may take up to 3 weeks.
03
Enrollment
Sign the Enrollment Agreement and start your courses.