Bachelor of Theology (BTh) is an undergraduate course offered in three to four years that deals with spiritual education, biblical studies and pastoral ministry. It trains the students with knowledge of the Bible, the Christian faith, the history of the church and practical skills in ministry to enable them to serve the religious and community leadership.
The minimum requirement to get admission in Bachelor of Theology is passing 10+2 or equivalent and some colleges also mandate a certain age limit requirement (usually 18 years). It generally follows an application process which starts with the fulfilment of eligibility conditions and entails entrance tests and an interview depending on the college. The institutions may have different procedures and criteria which have to be checked by candidates as they may have specific requirements. This program acquires both academic and practical exposure to religious and social settings that can help in directorial and theological knowledge.
Bachelor of Theology Eligibility Criteria
The students must follow the minimum eligibility criteria given below to get admitted in Bachelor of Theology course:
- The applicants have to pass class 12 from a recognized board.
- There is a requirement of minimum 50% marks in Class 12 and relaxation can be given to the SC / ST categories. (45% marks depending on the institution norms)
- The applicants need to submit the Water Baptism Certificate with a Christian leader’s recommendation which is mandatory for spiritual background verification.
- There is no strict upper age limit for the applicants but they must satisfy physical fitness and spiritual maturity requirements, and also they may need a health fitness certificate.
Bachelor of Theology Entrance Exams
In India, there is no nationwide centralized entrance examination that is specific to Bachelor of Theology programs at present. The admitted students are mainly selected on institutional grounds which could be either on merit or college entrance examination. Also, there are no state level exams as well to be admitted to Bachelor of Theology courses.
Bachelor of Theology Admission Process 2025
Follow the given steps in order to gain admission in Eastern Bible College for Bachelor of Theology:
Step 1: Fill in details via EBC website to receive an admission form where you have to provide the general information about Class 12.
Step 2: Submit the copies of Class 10 to 12 mark sheets, Class 10 to 12 certificates, Water Baptism Certificate, Christian Leader/s Recommendation, Birth certificate, Current passport size picture and size photograph.
Step 3: Pay the application fee online (e.g. Google Pay or Phonepe,etc), and submit the transaction slip.
Step 4: Wait to see whether you are invited to an interview/evaluation, in case this is a requirement by EBC. All candidates are not interviewed but selected candidates on merit.
Step 5: If selected, you will get the offer letter, along with the fee schedule, and after that you will need to pay the tuition fee.
Step 6: Finalize your enrollment, and submit original documents in person. Start classes according to the timetable of the college.
FAQs
Are students of non theological background eligible to seek admission to the Bachelor of Theology course?
Sure, any stream candidates may apply to the Bachelor of Theology course. Citizens without previous theological training can be taken through foundational or bridging courses before admission as needed by particular colleges.
How is Bachelor of Theology admission merit determined in merit-based colleges?
Admission on the basis of merit is normally done on the basis of the aggregate marks of Class 12 but some colleges might take other factors like personal interview or pastoral recommendation or entrance examination in case the entrance examination is held.
Are reservations applicable in Bachelor of Theology admission?
Government or institutional reservation policies of SC / ST / OBC / EWS / PwD candidates are to be followed in many theological colleges and at counseling or admission, original certificates are needed.
Do theological colleges require a pastor's recommendation for Bachelor of Theology admission?
The entrance into several colleges, particularly colleges and universities affiliated to church bodies demands recommendation of applicants by their local church pastor, or by a similar hierarchy of their local church or community leader that the applicant knows at least more than two years.
What are Bachelor of Theology admission policies in various theological institutions?
Most colleges use merit-based admission, others may use entrance exams, interviews, or having pastoral recommendations; the policies may vary with affiliation (university, church body or independent seminary).
Is it possible to apply for a Bachelor of Theology with a diploma in theology?
Yes, students who have completed an Asia Theological Association ATA recognised Diploma in Theology can be admitted or given advanced standing into the Bachelor of Theology programme.

