ADMISSIONS AND PATHWAYS
Welcome to Great Lakes Bible College
Whether you want to dive straight into a degree or test the waters by auditing a course first, we make it easy to transition your learning into academic credit.
Below, you will find everything you need to know about our academic standards, technical requirements, and our flexible Audit-to-Credit pathway designed to fit your unique journey.
Quick Navigation
- Academic Requirements: High school, mature student, and U.S. guidelines.
- The Audit-to-Credit Pathway: How to transition audited courses into academic credit.
- Other Student Requirements: Christian life, medical, and technology specs.
- Ready to Apply? Step-by-step application instructions.
Academic Requirements
Admission to our Certificate and Diploma programs requires a high school diploma. Admission to GLBC’s degree programs requires the equivalent of a Canadian university entrance qualification.
CANADIAN STUDENTS
- Standard Entry: High school diploma.
- Alternative Degree Pathway: Students with a general high school diploma can qualify for our degree programs by maintaining a B average during their first and second years at GLBC (subject to the Dean's approval).
U.S. STUDENTS
- Online Studies Only: Presently, we are able to accept U.S. students only for online studies due to Canadian government study permit policies. If you wish to study in person, please contact us.
- Grade Requirements: A U.S. high school diploma with at least a 60% average (translated to a 1.8 GPA or a grade of C-) is required for Certificate and Diploma programs.
- Advanced Placement: University preparatory credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits will be considered for transfer into GLBC programs.
MATURE STUDENTS
- If you are at least 21 years old, have been out of formal education for at least two years, and do not have a high school diploma, you may be admitted conditionally:
- Assessment: You must successfully complete the English language component of the Canadian Adult Achievement Test.
- Probationary Period: You will be accepted on academic probation for your first year. To gain admission to the third and fourth years of our degree programs, you must maintain a B average during your first two years.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
- Great Lakes Bible College is dedicated to equipping Christians for ministry within Canada and the Northern U.S.
- GLBC is not a "Designated Learning Institute" (DLI) with the Canadian federal government, meaning we cannot issue study permits for students outside Canada and the U.S. (international students).
- We highly recommend connecting with qualified schools in your home country. For a referral to a nearby school, email us at info@glbc.ca with your name and country of origin.
The 'Audit to Credit' Pathway
Our unique Audit-to-Credit program is designed to help you succeed. Rather than risking a backlog of incomplete courses that drag down your GPA, we set you up for academic success from day one with a "try-before-you-commit" style pathway. Here's how it works step by step:
Step 1: The Inquiry & Chat
Start by completing our quick
Connect With Admissions Form. This is followed by a brief, casual interview with our Dean to discuss your educational goals.
Step 2: Start as an Auditor
You will register for and take your first course(s) as an auditor. This lets you experience GLBC courses with zero academic GPA risk.
Step 3: Earn Your Academic Credit
Once you successfully complete the course work with an acceptable grade, your course status instantly upgrades from "Audit" to "Academic Credit." You are now ready to take more courses toward your certificate, diploma, or degree!
➡️ Note for Returning & Probationary Students
Students entering on academic probation or with limited study experience will start with one course at a time to ensure a smooth transition.
Other Requirements
- Technology Requirements: To participate in our online learning environment, you will need a physical Bible, a high-speed internet connection, a laptop or desktop computer and, optional, access to your courses on your smartphone through the Populi app and Zoom.
- Christian Life Requirement: Applicants must show evidence of a personal commitment to Christ and His teachings, and a willingness to comply with the college's regulations. You will identify two references in your application form who will be contacted directly by the college.
- Medical Requirements: Applicants for full-time studies must complete and submit a medical history form. Students studying in Ontario must have a valid Ontario Health Card or equivalent medical coverage. U.S. students must secure equivalent health coverage upon arrival in Canada.
Ready to Apply? Are you ready to take the next step in your academic and spiritual journey?