Application Process
St. Patrick's Seminary generally requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited college. Those applicants who do not possess the necessary background in religious studies and philosophy will be considered for the Pre-Theology Program, in preparation for entrance into the M.Div. Program. Single Catholic men who are interested in pursuing a life of priestly ministry are encouraged to contact the Vocations Office of the Archdiocese of San Francisco.
Here are some of the major steps necessary in the application process:
1) Interview with the Vocation Director followed by subsequent meetings during period of discernment.
2) Applicant participates in the discernment program offered at St. Patrick's Seminary.
3) An application will be mailed to the applicant, which he will complete to apply to the seminary and the Archdiocese.
4) Interview with priests, and/or people involved in formation, with letters of recommendation.
5) Interview with the seminary.
6) Psychological testing and physical exam are conducted.
7) Sacramental record, academic transcripts, and the results of the psychological test and physical exam are submitted by the applicant at this time.
8) If psychological testing indicates an appropriate candidate, he is scheduled for an interview with Archbishop Niederauer.
9) If the applicant is accepted by Archbishop Niederauer, he has a final interview with the seminary admissions committee. Notification of acceptance or non-acceptance will be handled by the Vocations Office and/or Archbishop's Office.