FAQs
What are ELN schools of ministry?
Every ELN program is a certified, full-time school of ministry for college-age leaders. Rather than just “educational,” ELN schools of ministry are designed to be “transformational,” impacting every area of a student’s life: head, hands and heart. Each ELN program is set in a Foursquare (http://www NULL.foursquare NULL.org) church, where students gain real-life, hands-on ministry experience, take life-shaping classes, and have daily access to pastors and mentors.
For information about each of the ELN schools of ministry across the country, visit the Programs page and begin exploring your options. You’ll discover that while there are similarities between ELN programs, each one is unique, due to its setting, specializations, and the passions of its leaders.
Are ELN programs only for those going into “full-time” ministry?
No. An ELN experience could be life changing for every student who is passionate about serving God, no matter what his or her job will be in the future. About half of ELN graduates go on to pursue a secular college degree or job, while the other half pursue Bible college degrees or vocational ministry positions. ELN programs help to prepare all leaders who desire to minister God’s redemptive grace for a lifetime both inside and outside of church settings.
Read a blog here about the power of life-long ministry.
How can I find the right ELN program for me?
As more and more ELN schools of ministry began, we needed a tool to help students identify which programs might be a fit for their unique needs and desires. That tool is the Program Finder. Simply answer any of the eight questions that are important to you (just leave the rest blank), and it will do the work of sorting out which ELN programs fit what you’re looking for. Click here to try it out!
What do I have to do to apply to an ELN program?
Each ELN school of ministry has its own unique application process. Please contact the programs in which you are interested to request an application.
While some ELN programs accept applications year round, others have specific cut-off dates. Be sure to begin this process soon to ensure a spot with the program of your choice. Go to the Programs page to connect with the schools where you may want to apply.
What is it like to be in an ELN program?
No two days are the same in an ELN program as students are engaging with a diverse local church family as well as its community. What remains constant, however, is the focus of students’ time and energy—serving, learning, and growing. And while every ELN school of ministry’s schedule is unique, there are a number of components that you’ll find in each program: mentoring relationships, classes and homework, personal devotional times, worship, serving within church ministries, community outreach, missions, and building life-long relationships with other students.
Where do ELN students live?
ELN programs create one of three different housing environments for their students:
- Students live with trusted “host families” from the church;
- Students live in ELN dormitories; or
- Students live in apartments with other ELN students.
Is it OK to take a year off before college to participate in an ELN program?
Thousands of students each year take a “gap year (http://bit NULL.ly/d1uxNh)” between high school and college. A gap year is an intentional season for students to experience the kinds of things that aren’t traditionally found in the classroom: travel, service projects, leadership opportunities, the development of meaningful and diverse relationships, etc. (things that are at the very core of ELN). Because colleges are used to helping students who take a gap year, most will be supportive of your decision to defer enrollment and will walk you through that process.
Many ELN graduates have found that investing a year in an ELN program has better equipped them for a college experience. Having a solid life-foundation that is grounded on God’s Word is an invaluable asset with which to face the challenges of college.
Can I earn college credit while in an ELN program?
Yes! Through generous partnerships with Life Pacific College and New Hope Christian College, each ELN student is eligible to receive a tuition scholarship. For details regarding this amazing opportunity, click here.
In addition, some ELN programs use a curriculum that is directly transferable to specific colleges. Contact prospective ELN programs about how you can earn college credit through their programs.
How much do ELN programs cost?
Each ELN program sets the cost for their school of ministry. Most programs charge a tuition fee that covers everything associated with the ELN experience (including room and board, ministry activities, missions experiences, etc.).
Because of the full-time, service-oriented nature of ELN programs, many students find that friends and family are willing to contribute financially. There are creative ways to fund-raise as well! Click here to find fund-raising ideas and contact prospective ELN programs for more help in this matter.
What is the age requirement for ELN?
Students participating in an ELN program must have a minimum of a high school diploma or its equivalency (GED). Each school of ministry determines their own specific age requirements.
Are scholarships available for ELN programs?
Foursquare Women in Leadership Ministry offer two annual $500 scholarships to young female leaders who are entering ELN programs to prepare for vocational ministry. For more information, click here (http://www NULL.foursquare NULL.org/news/article/application_process_opens_for_alabaster_legacy_scholarships).
Do you have other questions?
Please visit our Contact page to send us your notes and questions. We’re here to serve you!
