What to Expect
Welcome to Seminary!
We're so excited to have you in seminary this year! Whether this is your first time or you're a returning student, get ready to learn, grow, and connect with others who are trying to follow Jesus Christ just like you.
What Happens in Class?
What Happens in Class?
- Learn from the Scriptures: Each year you will study a different book of scripture. In 2026 we will study the Old Testament. In addition, Life Preparation lessons are about real-life things like making choices, preparing for a mission, building self-reliance, physical and emotional health, education, and more.
- Learn Together: You'll talk about gospel principles, ask questions, and share thoughts in a safe, respectful environment.
- Feel the Spirit: Seminary is a place to strengthen your testimony and feel closer to Jesus Christ.
How Long Is Each Class?
How Long Is Each Class?
The length of each class may vary depending on the offering in your area. Some meet every day, some meet once a week, and some are online. The time might also be a little different depending on the type of class.
What Do I Need to Do?
What Do I Need to Do?
- Come as You Are: You don't need to know everything, just come ready to learn and grow.
- Be Kind: Listen to others, participate, and support your friends.
- Keep Coming: Come to class often and join in class discussions.
What Should I Bring?
What Should I Bring?
- Scriptures (physical or digital)
- Something to write in (like a notebook or journal)
- Questions you want to talk about
- And most importantly, a willing heart and an open mind
Is There Homework?
Is There Homework?
Not like school homework. You'll read and learn from the scriptures. You will be invited to study them on your own, too. Sometimes, you will do assignments or practice remembering special verses from the scriptures.
You won't get grades like in school, but you can receive credit. Your teacher will keep track of your attendance. You'll also get to keep track of how much you've read. The most important part is helping you feel closer to Jesus Christ and grow your faith.
What If I Miss a Day?
What If I Miss a Day?
We understand that you may need to miss seminary occasionally for illness, school excused extra-curricular activities, and similar reasons. If you stay at 75% attendance or above, you will receive seminary credit. If you fall below the 75% attendance requirement, you can do make-up work.
What Happens If I Don't Receive Seminary Credit?
What Happens If I Don't Receive Seminary Credit?
That's okay. Some students work towards earning credit to graduate from seminary, and that is great. But the most important part of seminary is learning about Jesus Christ. Your effort matters more than credit. Every time you come to class and study the scriptures, you're doing something meaningful.
Year-by-Year Scripture Study
Year-by-Year Scripture Study
Each year in seminary, you will learn from a different book of scripture:
- 2026: Old Testament
- 2027: New Testament
- 2028: Book of Mormon
- 2029: Doctrine and Covenants and Church History
You'll see how these scriptures can help you today and learn more about God's plan for you.
Graduation and Recognition
Graduation and Recognition
As you continue to attend seminary and complete readings and assignments, you can graduate.
Seminary graduation is a special way to celebrate how much you've learned and grown. You'll be recognized for your hard work and progress.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead
After seminary, there's still so much to look forward to.
You can keep learning about the gospel and meet new friends at Institute, where you can find wonderful classes and opportunities on myInstitute. Institute is made for young adults and is flexible, uplifting, and helps you stay close to Jesus Christ.
Before you finish seminary, make sure you fill out What's Next. That way, an Institute program can reach out to you no matter where life takes you.
You can also explore CES college options here.