Entry into the program is every four years.  Individual eparchies handle the application process in a manner similar to that for priestly formation applicants.  By January 31st, approximately four and a half months before the program begins at the Seminary, applications are due at the Seminary office from the sponsoring hierarchs’ vocations office.  Applications are not sent  to the Seminary by the applicant.  For deacon students the Seminary need not be sent the entirety of the application packet as its focus is the intellectual pillar of formation.  What the Seminary requires for the admissions of each deacon student is:

• Letter of sponsorship from the Ordinary;
• Completed Application/Information Form including name and address of assigned mentor (if not the student’s pastor) and name and address of the spiritual director;
• Photograph;
• Brief essay on diaconal ministry;
• Curriculum vitae;
• Academic transcripts;
• Documentation of Criminal Background and Child Abuse History Clearance; and
• Letter of Recommendation from the applicant’s pastor.

All of the above must be received in the Seminary office by January 31st, approximately four and a half months before the beginning of a new program.  New programs begin every four years.