How to Apply to BEI
There are two ways to apply to the Bible Extension Institute (BEI).
Those seeking Licensure or Ordination through the Evangelical Church Alliance, but who still need to accrue academic credits to do so, may enroll in the BEI program. These instructions will include steps 1 through 4 with the exception of the support documents.
Those desiring to enroll in the Bible Extension Institute (BEI) without the intentions of receiving ministerial credentials may apply using the following procedure:
1. Complete and submit an enrollment form for the BEI. The form is available by clicking here. Also, be sure to include the following along with your application:
- A non-refundable application fee of $25 payable to the ECA for a one-time Enrollment Fee. (All fees must be paid in U.S. funds.)
- Business quality photo.
- Testimony of Conversion* An explanation of how you received Christ as your Lord and Savior, (NOT TO EXCEED ONE PAGE IN LENGTH)
- Statement of Doctrine* (Please limit your statement to two pages.) This statement should include your position on the following areas: The Trinity, Salvation, Baptism and the inspiration and inerrancy of the Word of God. Click here for a sample Statement of Doctrine.
- If applicable a Resume of Ministry Career, training and activities, and Biblical education. This document must include tenure, responsibilities, supervisors, and names of churches and organizations. We are looking to assess two years of cumulative ministry experiences (4,160 hours) for licensure, and four years of cumulative ministry experience (8,320 hours) required for ordination. Click here for a sample Resume.
- If applicable Official Educational Transcripts of Biblical Studies (These must be sent to us directly from the institution.)
After Application has been approved you may:
2. Order the BEI Courses online at the "BEI Bookstore" by clicking here. Or you may download and fill out the BEI Materials Order Form, by clicking here, and submitting with a check for the total amount, by postal mail or scanned email. Do not attempt to edit the form.
3. Proceed with taking courses at your own pace but within the four-month outlined completion time.
4. See below on Preparing for Final Exam.
Form of Payment: Payment for all materials must be received before course materials are shipped. Residents of Canada and overseas countries must submit payments in U.S. dollars using a U.S. Postal Money Order.
Course Costs: Costs included for each course include the course *textbook(s), a course Study Guide, a $25 per course Administrative Fee, plus **shipping and handling.
*Some courses do not require a textbook.
** US Postal Service at the Media Mail rate. Materials shipped to foreign countries and those wanting items shipped through a faster service will have to contact the ECA to make different shipping arrangements at a higher cost.
Completion Time: Students completing courses through the BEI must complete one course every four months to remain active. Extensions may be considered upon request. (A request for an extension must be mailed or emailed in writing to the ECA International Headquarters one month prior to the due date. Courses not completed will receive a failing grade.)
Components of a Course: Most courses consist of a carefully selected textbook(s) plus a study guide. In some cases, the textbook and study guide is incorporated.
Preparing for Final Exams:
- Every course contains a unit progress evaluation test. Read the course packet on how to study for the unit exams. These will help you study for the final exam.
- When preparing to take the final exam, be sure to focus on knowing the information in each of the “learning objectives” sections (as the final exam will include these areas).
- In taking the final Examination, you will need to make preparations beforehand, by filling out The Students Request to Take Final Exam form. The final exam is to be completed in the presence of an ordained or licensed proctor (pastor, professor, supervisor,) but the proctor, who cannot be a family member, must sign the final exam before submitting directly to the ECA for the student to receive the final grade. The final exam is to be completed without notes, textbooks, or other study materials.
- The BEI courses are non-accredited. Upon graduation from the BEI program, a certificate of completion will be issued.