IBCS FAQs | IBCS

Want to know more about IBCS?

These frequently asked questions will help give you some answers to questions you may have.

Discover more about IBCS through these FAQs.

You may have questions in your mind about a variety of things. We trust these FAQs will help you get the answers you are looking for. Of course, if you have more questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We would be happy to talk with you.

Finance FAQs
Does IBCS offer any institutional scholarships?

Yes, IBCS does offer institutional scholarships, including discounts for students who have at least one parent in full-time Christian service in a ministry of like faith and practice as IBCS and Tri-City Baptist Church. See our Scholarships and Grants page for more information.

Can I get Federal financial aid like Pell grants?

Yes, students attending IBCS can receive Pell grants as well as subsidized Federal financial loans. All students who want to receive Federal aid must fill out the FAFSA. Find more information about financial aid at IBCS at Financial Aid | IBCS. Information about federal student loans can be found at Federal Loans | IBCS

How much does it cost to go to IBCS?

For the 2025-2026 school year, tuition is $460 per credit hour. Living in the residence hall (all meals provided) costs $4100 per semester. See more information at Financial Aid | IBCS

Can I receive financial aid?

Yes, you can receive financial aid through IBCS. You may also be eligable for federal aid. In order to apply for scholarships from IBCS, you must first fill out your FASFA. All of this information can be found on the Financial Aid page of our website.

Academic FAQs
Does IBCS accept credits from other schools?

IBCS often accepts credits for undergraduate and graduate courses completed at other schools. Credits from other schools will be carefully evaluated by the Registrar. Read more about our transfer policies at Transfer of Credit | IBCS.

Do graduate schools accept an undergraduate degree from IBCS?

IBCS is accredited through the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), and undergraduate degrees from IBCS have been accepted for graduate work at other schools. Schools, however, will make their own determinations about whether a degree from IBCS will be accepted.

Do credits from IBCS transfer to other schools?

IBCS is accredited through the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS). Both undergraduate and graduate credits from IBCS have successfully transferred to other schools. Schools, however, will make their own determinations about whether credits from an uncompleted degree will be accepted.

What graduate/seminary programs do you offer?

IBCS offers a Master of Arts in Ministry, a Master of Christian Education, and a Master of Divinity. The Master of Arts in Ministry offers three concentrations: Christian Service, Church Music, and Pastor Ministry. See more information here: Seminary | IBCS

What undergraduate majors do you offer?

All of our undergraduate majors are double majors with Bible. We offer an Associate of Arts in Bible and Christian Service, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Bible and Christian Service, a B.A. in Bible and Church Music, and a B.A. in Bible and Teacher Education. Both the Associate of Arts and B.A. in Bible and Christian Service offer six different emphases to choose from: Pastoral Studies, Missions, Church Music, Missions, Educational Studies, and Organizational Leadership. See more information about our undergraduate programs Undergraduate Programs | IBCS

What is the FOCUS program?

The FOCUS program is a one-year program that earns a Certificate of Biblical Studies. A student in FOCUS takes Bible and theology classes to help develop a thoroughly Biblical worldview and receives intense mentoring that helps to guide that development. FOCUS is offered at a 50% tuition discount, so it is very affordable. Ten credits per semester offers a lighter load that allows plenty of time for work so that a student can finish the year without any debt. Since FOCUS is not a degree program, students in the program do not qualify for Federal financial aid.

How big are the classes?

Our class sizes are small with the goal of creating an interactive environment for students to engage with faculty. With a student to faculty ration of 6 to 1, students have the opportunity to connect in a meaningful way with faculty, not just to grow academically, but also spiritually.

Is IBCS accredited?

International Baptist College and Seminary is a member of the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) having been awarded Reaffirmation II of its Accredited Status as a Category IV institution by the TRACS Accreditation Commission on October 27, 2015. This status is effective for a period of ten years.

IBCS is also a member of the American Association of Christian Colleges and Seminaries (AACCS).

Can high school students take classes at IBCS?

Yes, high schoolers can take classes at IBCS through the Early Start program, which lets you enter college with some credits already on your transcript. Fill out the application choosing the undergraduate program, and you will see the option to select Early Start.

Can adult learners take classes at IBCS for personal enrichment?

Yes, adult learners can take classes at IBCS. We offer a Certificate of Biblical Studies that can be completed fully online. This program includes our 18-credit undergraduate Bible and Theology core, providing a thorough grounding in the Bible. Classes are offered both during the day and evening, so they will fit into a busy schedule. These are regular undergraduate classes and can be taken either for credit or as an audit. In addition to the classes in the Certificate program, almost all other undergraduate and graduate classes can be taken for personal enrichment on a non-degree-seeking status or as an audit.

Can I get an undergraduate degree online from IBCS?

The motto of IBCS is "Mentoring for Ministry." Because we highly value life-on-life mentoring and feel that this can be effective only when a student is attending in person, we do not offer undergraduate degrees online. A certain percentage of classes could be taken through distance education; however, before the student must complete the degree in person, living either on campus or in town.

Can I get a graduate degree online from IBCS?

Yes, classes in all graduate programs can be completed online. For a graduate degree in church music that has lesson and performance requirements in addition to classes, close coordination with the Music Department Head is necessary.

What theology does IBCS teach?

IBCS is a ministry of and an integral part of Tri-City Baptist Church in Chandler, Arizona, and teaches the Bible from a conservative dispensational viewpoint. Read our doctrinal statement at Statement of Faith | IBCS

Student Life FAQs
What is the main focus of IBCS?

Our purpose is to prepare you to serve in church ministries by investing in a mentoring relationship with you. Through life-on-life mentoring, we aim to inspire you to love the Lord, discern the truth, and skillfully serve in the local church.

Do faculty and staff members have office hours?

We want our faculty and staff to be accessible to you so that you can get the help you need. Whether you are seeking academic guidance or if you are facing difficulties in your personal or spiritual life, our faculty and staff are here to walk with you through your journey. They have office hours, but they also are available throughout the day to meet with you.

Where would I live if I come to IBCS?

In general, single students live in a residence hall on the IBCS campus. On-campus housing is the most convenient and affordable option for most students. A few apartments are available on campus for married couples and older students. Off campus, you will find multiple apartment complexes within walking distance of IBCS.

Admissions FAQs
Can I come visit the IBCS campus?

Yes, we would love to have you come visit campus! You can attend chapel as well as some classes. We offer two nights of free lodging on campus and free meals while you are here. You will get to meet with the head of the program you are interested in and get to know your fellow students. Your parents may also stay for free in a campus guest room if one is available. Learn more about how to schedule a visit at Discovery Visit | IBCS.

Does IBCS accept CLEP tests for credit?

Yes, IBCS does accept CLEP test scores. Please contact the Registrar to see which CLEP tests will be accepted for college credit. Read more about our credit transfer policies here: Transfer of Credit | IBCS

Does IBCS accept the GED and HiSET for high school completion?

Yes, both GED and HiSET are accepted as valid high school completion credentials.

Does IBCS accept home-schooled students?

Yes, IBCS accepts homeschooled students who present a high school transcript in standard form that is signed by a supervising parent or an official of a recognized homeschool academy. Final high school transcripts must state a graduation date. Read more about our admissions policies here: Admissions Process | IBCS

What is the application deadline for the next semester?

There is no firm deadline for applications, but please submit your application at least one week before the start of the desired semester.

What is the application fee?

There is no application fee. Simply fill out and submit the application, and the Admissions Office will contact you for the next steps.

What is the admissions timeline for international students?

Because the admissions process for international students involves more steps, it is recommended that international students begin the application process at least six months prior to the start of their desired academic year. Find more information about the admissions steps for international students at International Students | IBCS.

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