International Students, Your Calling Awaits!

SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary is inviting applicants from all international locations.

This is a unique opportunity for international students to study at SUM’s main campus in El Dorado Hills, CA. We are excited to provide a holistic experience for you to learn and grow in your Christian character and call to become empowered as a missional, servant leader of global influence with a transformational impact in your community.

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Accredited Degrees to Prepare You for Ministry

Whether you are a fresh high school graduate, a seasoned professional, or somewhere in between, SUM’s accredited degree programs are designed to equip and empower you to engage a culture that is often hostile to a biblical worldview.

SUM has regional accreditation with the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and national accreditation with the Association of Biblical Higher Education (ABHE).

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Cutting-Edge Theological Education Curriculum

SUM has sharpened its focus and intensified its commitment to the global Billion Soul Harvest through the Anytime, Anywhere (A-A) program. By leveraging biblical-theological, practical, and contextual expertise SUM had produced a highly effective, flexible, accredited, yet greatly affordable Spirit-filled curriculum. You will have the unique opportunity to be mentored by seasoned Christian educators and ministry leaders on the main campus.

Commitment to Affordable Education

We are committed to providing you with a stellar, biblically grounded education that allows you to study in the U.S. for a fraction of the cost compared to many other schools and universities. If you’re committed to your calling, we’re committed to you.

Full-time students are able to complete their US undergraduate degree in just 3 years (NOT 4 years!) and their graduate degree on an accelerated schedule.

Discounted Tuition: $5,000 per year**
Housing: $6,000 per year
Living Expenses: $8,000 per year
Miscellaneous Costs: $1,000 per year
Total Costs: $20,000 per year

How to Apply

SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary has always been committed to providing a powerful, Spirit-filled educational experience. Our primary aim is to assist students in responding to and being equipped for Jesus’ commission.

Eligibility Criteria

Adhere to SUM’s Statement of faith.
Demonstrate English proficiency verbally and in writing.
Meet practicum requirements for the respective degree program (40 hours per term Graduate / 80 hours per term Undergraduate)
Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent and remain in good academic standing throughout the program.
Provide evidence of good standing from any previous college in order to transfer to SUM.
Show proof of financial ability to pay for school costs plus living expenses ($20,000 per year) before an I-20 form is issued.
Maintain full-time enrollment of 12 credits (Undergraduate) or 6 credits (Graduate) each term.
Reside in El Dorado Hills, CA, for the entire course of their degree program.
Have skills and experience in areas that will help serve the college including: Media Production, Administration, Music, Information Technology, Teaching, Communication, etc.

“Our experience studying on campus at SUM is incredible. We are not just learning to be biblically and academically sound but being a spiritually well-rounded person. We receive mentoring and coaching support from our professors on campus whenever we struggle in our learning.”

Eric De GuzmanPhilippines/Thailand

“SUM has enriched my calling, by preparing me for ministry in missions and to learn the adaptation of different cultures and practices. “

Sasha-Kaye McnishJamaica

“SUM Bible college has played a key role in obeying God’s call in my life and the opportunity to graduate debt free. Living in the main campus with fellow students has allowed me to build relationships with people from different backgrounds who are seeking after God.”

Joshua JeyarajIndia

“This experience has not only shaped my academic and professional path but has also given me a broader perspective on life and ministry itself. I am grateful to SUM Bible College for helping me finish my professional degree.”

Naomi MorandartePhilippines

“Being here has provided me with opportunities to grow as a minister, in fact, in my first year, I was presented with the opportunity to minister the gospel to young people in a new city that I’m excited to start soon.”

Oshane EvansJamaica

Undergraduate Admissions Process

A completed SUM General Application (International Undergraduate Application)
Pastor Reference Form (electronic submission)(download)
General Reference Form (electronic submission)(download)
Official High School/Secondary School Records
Essay – Answer the questions below. The essay should be 1-page typed, 12-point, and double-spaced (email to [email protected], please attach as a separate document and include your name and F1 Visa Applicant at the top.)
a) How did you become a Christian?
b) How are you currently serving in my home church?
c) Upon graduating from SUM, where do you feel the Lord is leading you?
Admissions Interview
Email your Resume/CV highlighting all your skills and work experience to [email protected]. If you have just finished high school and/or do not have much work experience, please click on this link for some tips and a sample resume template.

Graduate Admissions Process

A completed SUM General Application (International Graduate Application)
Pastor Reference Form (electronic submission) (download)
Educator Reference Form (electronic submission) (download)
Official College Transcripts from Accredited Institution
Essay – Answer the questions below. The essay should be 2 pages typed, 12-point, and double-spaced (email to
[email protected], please attach as a separate document and include your name and F1 Visa Applicant at the top.)
a) How did you become a Christian?
b) Are you currently serving in my home church?
c) How do you believe this degree will help you in your ministry and calling?
d) Upon graduating from SUM, where do you feel the Lord is leading you?
Admissions Interview
Email your Resume/CV highlighting all your education, skills, and work experience to [email protected].

Note:

SUM Bible College and Theological Seminary admits students six times each academic year during the Fall, Winter, and Spring trimesters. In order to be officially admitted, each applicant must complete an application packet and receive a letter of admission. Applicants meeting admission requirements are considered without regard to race, color, sex, or physical limitations. A high value is placed upon applicants who express a call to ministry.

For a step-by-step guide to studying in the United States, please visit Guide to Studying in the States.

If you have questions or need help, please contact us at [email protected] or (916) 306-1628. Our office is open Monday–Friday.

Disclosure:

SUM is permitted by the US Department of Homeland Security to issue I-20; however, the United States embassy has the final authority for student visa approval. SUM does not provide English training for international students who lack English language skills. SUM will assist the international student in securing his or her I-20, but the student is responsible for all financial requirements and fees.

The Four Pillars of SUM

Academic Excellence

Learn from instructors with educational expertise and years of proven ministry experience.

Practical Ministry

Engage in real-world ministry with SUM faculty and local pastors.

Personal Mentorship

Receive guidance in academics, relationships, spiritual and personal development, and leadership.

Affordable Education

Our goal is for you to graduate with little to no debt, enabling immediate ministry upon graduation.

“God is raising a fearless generation: a generation committed to carry the message of the Kingdom of God to the ends of the earth. The church is in its finest hour; the flame of the Holy Spirit burns brightly. His servants in the face of adversity declare, ‘the gates of hell shall not prevail against it!’ (Matt. 16:18).”

Chancellor George NeauSUM Founder