Admissions
How do I apply?
Simply fill out the Application for Admissions and hit the submit button.
Is there an application fee?
For the Graduate Program, there is a non-refundable application fee of $40 for laypersons or $15 for Catholic Priests, Deacons and Religious. For the School of Spiritual Formation and Spiritual Direction courses, there is a non-refundable application fee of $20 for laypersons or $5 for Catholic Priests, Deacons and Religious. These fees cover the administrative expenses to process the application.
Am I too old to pursue this program?
Are you ever too old to deepen your love of Christ and service to Him and His Church?
Can I apply the coursework from other institutions for credit in the Avila Institute?
Because of the unique nature of spiritual theology and the approach we take in our formation, it is not probable though we are open to inquiries on a case by case basis.
Must I have an undergraduate degree to participate?
No. Those with undergraduate degrees are often best equipped to complete graduate level work. However, the requirement for participation is that you have sufficient capability and commitment to complete the work. This is determined through the application process.
Can you send me a paper application?
Since the Avila Institute is a completely online program, all processes are completed online. This also saves on costs so we can keep tuition to a minimum.
How long will it take until I hear if I am accepted or not?
The application process takes an average of 1 – 2 weeks.
How will I hear if I am accepted or not?
You will receive an email at the email address provided in the application. If you do not hear back within 1 – 2 weeks, please be sure to check your Spam Folder or Trash.
Can I audit a course?
At this time, we do not allow for the auditing of live courses. However, enrollment to the Avila Army allows for unlimited viewing of all previously recorded courses.
Accreditation
Is the Avila Institute Accredited?
The purpose of the Avila Institute is to make education in the faith affordable and our content unapologetically Catholic. We award credits and certificates for program completion, though we are not an accredited institution by worldly standards. We strive to provide our students with classes and content which meet or surpass the academic quality and rigor offered by traditionally accredited institutions merely for the love of learning about the Catholic faith.
Will my professional organization accept your credits?
A certificate from the Avila Institute is quickly becoming the gold-standard of continuing education for Catholic professionals.
Students should seek advance approval from their own professional organizations or employers to ensure that the content of our coursework meets the requirements of their organizations. We are happy to help explain our program to your organization as needed.
Tuition
How much does an Avila Institute education cost?
- All Graduate courses are $550.
- All School of Spiritual Formation courses are $200 – $275.
- All High Calling Propaedeutic courses are free to the candidates and sponsored by their respective Dioceses.
The Avila Institute wants to ensure that all who seek to embark on a journey to learn more about the Catholic faith have a chance to do so. The Avila Institute offers payment plans based on each individual’s needs. Full and partial scholarships are also available on an as needed basis. If a partial scholarship is given, the remaining portion of the tuition may be paid in full or in monthly installments.
Is there a discount for priestly or religious students?
Catholic priests, deacons, and religious needing financial assistance are encouraged to complete the scholarship section within the application. While this section of the application is needed in order to grant a scholarship, Catholic priests, deacons, and religious will never be denied a scholarship.
Financial Aid
Are scholarship funds for laity available and, if so, how are they awarded?
Absolutely. We are joyfully committed to serving the Lord’s faithful poor and the financially strapped – we award based on severity of need and the applicant’s likelihood of success in the program. Applicants should complete the scholarship section of the application in order to request a scholarship.
Is it possible to sponsor someone who would like to take classes?
Yes. You may make a donation to the Avila Foundation here.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. The Avila Institute, a subsidiary of the Avila Foundation, is a non-profit organization as defined by the IRS.
Avila Foundation is an exempt organization as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; EIN 27-3714084
Do scholarship funds cover books or other expenses?
No. Scholarship funds only cover the partial or full expense of the tuition for each course. Those who require scholarship funds for tuition may inquire as to additional support and we may be able to find a donor to assist, but funding beyond tuition is not the norm.
I don’t need a scholarship but would prefer to pay for my classes in smaller monthly amounts to minimize the impact. Can I do this?
Absolutely. We will work with each student to ensure they are on a plan that suits their budget. Those with partial scholarships may also put the balance on a payment plan.
Do I need to be in the Graduate Program to be eligible for a scholarship?
No. Scholarships are available for all of our programs.