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Question 1

Will my classes at Cornerstone College & Seminary be online or on-campus?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone College & Seminary recognizes the need for flexibility in higher education, which is why we offer both on-campus and online classes. Students have the option to choose the format that works best for them based on their schedule, learning style, and location. On-campus classes provide a traditional classroom experience where students can interact face-to-face with professors and peers. Online classes, on the other hand, offer a more flexible approach to learning that allows for convenient scheduling and the ability to work from any location with internet access. Both types of classes are taught by highly qualified instructors who are committed to providing students with a quality education.

Question 2

Is CCS military aligned?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone College & Seminary offers Military and VA benefits to better equip active and non-active Military personnel.

Question 3

Will my credits transfer?

Accepted Answer

Finishing your degree has never been easier! CCS accepts credits from most colleges, seminaries, and universities. Apply for credit transfer and see if you're eligible.

Question 4

How long is each course at CCS?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone College & Seminary offers two course types: Embrace Cornerstone's community with 16-week on-campus courses or balance your work and studies with our flexible 8-week online courses that fit your schedule and needs.

Question 5

Is CCS an affordable option?

Accepted Answer

CCS is one of the highest-quality, lowest-priced, online and in-person Christian Colleges in the nation. OnDemand (Subscription-Based Tuition): $333 per month Undergraduate tuition rate: $175 per credit hour Graduate tuition rate: $195 per credit hour

Question 6

Is Cornerstone College & Seminary accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cornerstone College & Seminary is fully accredited by the Association of Independent Christian Colleges and Seminaries (AICCS), a recognized faith-based accrediting agency.

Question 7

Can I work full-time (or be in ministry full-time) while studying at CCS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CCS is designed with working adults and active ministry leaders in mind. Many of our students are juggling jobs, church ministry, and family responsibilities alongside their studies – and they succeed, thanks to CCS’s flexible course formats and supportive structure. If you’re working full-time, the online 8-week courses are a great option because you can do the coursework during evenings or weekends at your own pace.

Question 8

What are CCS’s doctrinal beliefs and theological distinctives?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone College & Seminary is firmly rooted in Evangelical Christian orthodoxy. The college’s Statement of Faith affirms the major historic doctrines of the Christian faith. Please see the full Statement of Faith.

Question 9

Where is Cornerstone College & Seminary located, and what is the local community like?

Accepted Answer

CCS is located at 7501 Graham Street, Suite 120, in Spotsylvania, Virginia (22553). This is in the Fredericksburg/Spotsylvania region of Virginia. Being in Spotsylvania, CCS is conveniently accessible from I-95 and not far from historic Fredericksburg.

Question 10

What does accreditation mean for students?

Accepted Answer

Accreditation means our programs, faculty, and institutional practices have been reviewed by an external accreditor and meet established standards for academic quality, integrity, and accountability. Students can be confident that a Cornerstone education is credible, legitimate, and thoughtfully designed.

Question 11

Why did Cornerstone choose theological accreditation?

Accepted Answer

We chose theologically based accreditation because it aligns with our mission to provide education grounded in God’s Word. AICCS evaluates academic quality while also recognizing the importance of biblical integration, doctrinal clarity, and ministry preparation.

Question 12

Does theological accreditation mean the academics are less rigorous?

Accepted Answer

No. Our accreditation holds us to clear benchmarks for academic quality, faculty qualifications, curriculum review, and institutional accountability—while allowing us to remain unapologetically Christ-centered.

Question 13

How does accreditation impact the quality of courses?

Accepted Answer

Accreditation requires regular review of our programs, assessment of student learning, qualified faculty, and continuous improvement. This ensures that every course meets academic standards and faithfully integrates a biblical worldview.

Question 14

Why should churches and ministry partners trust a Cornerstone degree?

Accepted Answer

Accreditation affirms that our degrees are earned through a legitimate, accountable institution committed to academic excellence and Christian integrity. It protects the value of our students’ education and the credibility of their credentials.

Question 15

What is Cornerstone’s ongoing commitment to accreditation?

Accepted Answer

Accreditation is not a one-time achievement—it is an ongoing commitment. We continually evaluate and strengthen our programs to ensure we honor our students, our mission, and God in all we do.

Question 16

What are the admission requirements for undergraduate programs?

Accepted Answer

Undergraduate applicants must be high school graduates (or hold a GED). No minimum GPA is explicitly required for admissions. High school dual-enrollment students should have completed 10th grade with at least a 2.5 GPA. Applicants should submit a high school transcript, GED certificate, or college transcript of higher education courses taken.

Question 17

What are the admission requirements for graduate programs?

Accepted Answer

Graduate applicants need an appropriate prior degree: a completed bachelor’s degree (minimum 2.5 GPA) for the Master of Divinity (CCS accepts a variety of bachelor’s degrees outside of Bible and Theology), and a completed master’s degree (minimum 3.0 GPA) for the Doctor of Ministry. The doctoral program requires a writing sample demonstrating academic writing ability.  All applicants (undergraduate and graduate) are expected to affirm CCS’s Christian Statement of Faith and Code of Conduct as part of the application. The good news is that standardized test scores are not required. CCS is test-optional, meaning SAT/ACT scores are not needed for admission. In summary, if you have the required prior education and are on board with our Christ-centered mission, you can apply to join the CCS community.

Question 18

How do I apply, and is there an application fee?

Accepted Answer

Applying to Cornerstone is a straightforward 3-step process. First, you’ll submit an online application form through the college website at   and pay the small application fee. The application fee is $25 (non-refundable). During the application, you will be asked to affirm the CCS Code of Ethics and Statement of Faith. Second, you need to request your transcripts: incoming undergraduates provide a high school transcript (unless you’ve attended college before, in which case college transcripts suffice), and graduate applicants provide college/university transcripts. (If you’re missing transcripts or your writing sample during the initial application, don’t worry – admissions counselors can help you submit those later,) Finally, once you’ve applied, think about your calling and goals – a CCS admissions counselor will reach out to discuss your program interests and help “craft a degree plan that meets your needs,” whether entirely online, on-campus, or a mix. Tip: You do not need to declare a major upfront or know exactly how you’ll take courses – CCS will guide you through those decisions after acceptance. After submitting your application and documents, you can expect an admissions decision on a rolling basis. If accepted, you’ll be on your way to answering your calling at CCS!

Question 19

Do I need SAT or ACT scores to apply?

Accepted Answer

No, standardized test scores are not required for admission to CCS. Cornerstone College & Seminary has adopted a test-optional policy, so submitting SAT, ACT, or CLT scores is voluntary. You will not be penalized for not providing a test score – applications are evaluated primarily on your academic transcripts, personal statements, and alignment with CCS’s mission. If you do have strong test scores and choose to submit them, the admissions team will consider them as part of your profile, but they are entirely optional. In short, don’t stress about the SAT/ACT for CCS. Focus on showcasing your heart for learning and ministry in your application.

Question 20

When are the application deadlines, and when do new semesters start?

Accepted Answer

CCS operates on a semester-subterm system with eight start times per year, and the admissions process is rolling. This means you can apply at any time, but you’ll want to have your materials in before the start of the term you wish to join. Generally, Spring Semester begins in January, Summer Semester in May/June, and Fall Semester in August. Enrollment is flexible, and late applications may be accepted up until the semester begins, provided space is available. We encourage you to reach out to admissions for the specific dates of the next start if you’re unsure. Remember, you can be accepted any time prior to the beginning of a semester as long as you meet the documentation deadlines for that term.

Question 21

Does CCS accept transfer credits or credit for prior learning?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cornerstone welcomes transfer students and understands many applicants have prior college coursework or relevant life experience. If you have taken courses at an accredited college or a reputable Bible institute, you can apply for a transfer credit evaluation. Generally, courses with a grade of C or higher (for undergraduate) or B or higher (for graduate) are considered for transfer. CCS allows transfer of a substantial portion of your program credits; however, at least 25% of the credits for your degree must be completed at CCS to earn a Cornerstone degree (ensuring you experience CCS’s core curriculum and community) . For example, in a 120-credit bachelor’s program, up to 90 credits might be transferred in, but 30 credits (25%) must be taken with CCS. CCS also offers the possibility of credit for ministry or life experience in some cases. Undergraduate students can have prior learning (such as military training, extensive ministry work, etc.) evaluated for credit (a Life Experience Credit fee applies for the evaluation) . After you’re admitted, the Registrar will work with you to maximize your transfer credits and potentially save you time and money on your degree. In short: yes, you can transfer to CCS – we’ll help you make the most of credits you’ve already earned while ensuring you complete the key courses needed for a CCS degree.

Question 22

Can I visit the campus or sit in on a class before deciding to enroll?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We encourage prospective students and their families to experience CCS in person. You can schedule a campus visit to tour our facilities, meet faculty and current students, and even observe a class session if desired. The campus in Spotsylvania, VA, includes a chapel, classrooms, offices, and a cozy café, providing a friendly environment for visitors and students alike. During a visit, the admissions team will be happy to answer your specific questions and show you how CCS “feels like family.” As one student puts it, “I feel like I am a part of a family campus community that loves me and cares about my future”. To arrange a visit, you can use the “Visit CCS” link on our website or contact the admissions office. We also host periodic open house events and are willing to accommodate individual visit requests. Whether you’re local or traveling in, we want you to “see and experience the campus and classroom environment” firsthand  – it’s often the best way to discern if CCS is the right fit for you.

Question 23

How much does it cost to attend CCS?

Accepted Answer

One of CCS’s core commitments is to provide high-quality education at an affordable cost. Undergraduate tuition is $175 per credit hour for new students. For a typical 3-credit course, that’s $525 in tuition. Graduate tuition (for master’s and doctoral courses) is $195 per credit hour. In addition to tuition, there are a few standard fees: a one-time Application Fee of $25, and a Student Services Fee of $75 per semester.

Question 24

What financial aid options are available?

Accepted Answer

Financial aid at CCS comes primarily in the form of institutional scholarships, discounts, and payment plans, since CCS chooses to keep tuition low instead of relying on federal aid. Notably, CCS does not participate in Federal Financial Aid (FAFSA) – meaning Pell Grants, federal student loans, etc., are not used. Instead, CCS’s strategy is “graduate without debt” by offering an affordable pay-as-you-go model and plenty of scholarships and discounts. Here are some key aid opportunities: Merit Scholarship: CCS offers a full-tuition merit scholarship for a two-year associate degree (the Merit Scholarship), which can cover 100% of tuition for eligible students. This is often awarded to students with strong academic performance or exceptional leadership potential. Need-Based Scholarships: There are named scholarships like the Gary Foss Memorial Scholarship and the Carson Riley Scholarship, which students can apply for if they need financial assistance. These may have specific criteria (such as ministry involvement or academic merit) and can significantly offset tuition. Ministry in Place Discount: If you are already a ministry leader or pastor, CCS’s Ministry in Place program allows you to apply for discounted tuition rates so you can continue serving while studying. This reflects CCS’s mission to equip those in active ministry by easing their financial burden. Veterans Benefits: CCS is very supportive of military veterans and their families. The college is approved for VA benefits, meaning eligible students can use GI Bill® education benefits at CCS. (CCS is a religious institution in Virginia and is exempt from state oversight, but it does work with veterans to honor tuition assistance and refund guidelines.) VA benefits only apply to on-campus courses.  Payment Plans: Every student, whether receiving scholarships or not, can take advantage of interest-free monthly payment plans. Instead of paying a semester’s tuition all at once, you can pay in smaller installments over the term. This “Pay-As-You-Go” approach is central to CCS’s philosophy – the goal is that you graduate without debt by budgeting your education costs monthly.

Question 25

Do you offer payment plans or “pay as you go” options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In fact, CCS’s entire financial model is built around a Pay-As-You-Go philosophy to keep students out of debt. Instead of taking out large loans, students pay for each semester (or each course) as they progress, often using monthly payment plans. These in-house payment plans split your tuition into manageable monthly payments throughout the term – interest-free. Many CCS students hold jobs or ministry positions while in school, and the monthly plan lets them budget tuition alongside their other expenses. Because tuition is relatively low, some students even pay upfront or semester-by-semester, but the payment plan is there if you need it. Additionally, if you receive a scholarship, that award is applied directly to reduce the amount you owe. The goal is that by the time you graduate, you have zero student debt, having paid along the way.

Question 26

What happens if I need to withdraw from a course? Will I get a tuition refund?

Accepted Answer

CCS understands that sometimes circumstances change, and students may need to drop a class or withdraw. There is a tuition refund policy that provides refunds on a sliding scale, based on how early in the term the withdrawal occurs. If you withdraw very early in the term (before the second day of the term), you are eligible for a 100% tuition refund (all tuition for that course is refunded). After the first few days, the refund amount decreases: for example, a student might get 75% back if withdrawing in the first week, 50% in the second week, and 25% in the third week. After about the third week of a term, no refund is available for withdrawal. Keep in mind that the refund policy typically applies to tuition only, not fees, since fees cover administrative costs and resources. Also, to receive a refund, you must follow the official withdrawal process – simply not attending class isn’t enough; you need to notify the Registrar’s Office of your intent to drop the course. One exception: if you are a military student and are called to service, CCS has a special pro-rated refund schedule to accommodate that (in compliance with veteran benefit regulations) . Always check the Academic Catalog or with the Registrar for the most up-to-date refund schedule, but generally the policy above holds. The bottom line is that early communication is key – withdraw within the first two weeks of a course for a substantial refund, if needed, and beyond that, refunds become limited.

Question 27

What is Cornerstone OnDemand, and how does the monthly subscription work?

Accepted Answer

Cornerstone OnDemand is an innovative, self-paced learning option offered by CCS. It allows students to take courses online through a subscription model rather than paying per credit. The cost is $333 per month for OnDemand enrollment. While on the subscription, you can enroll in designated online courses and complete as much coursework as you comfortably can in that time. This model is great for motivated students who want to potentially accelerate their studies – for example, if you can finish two courses in one month (which is intensive but possible if you have lots of free time), you’re effectively getting an incredible bargain. OnDemand courses are asynchronous and fully online, similar to regular online courses, but you have the flexibility to set your own pace. OnDemand can save you time and money. You can talk to an advisor about whether the OnDemand option fits your degree plan (and which courses are available in that format) before signing up.

Question 28

What undergraduate degree programs does Cornerstone College & Seminary offer?

Accepted Answer

CCS provides a range of Christ-centered academic programs at multiple levels. For undergraduates, earn an Associate of Biblical Studies (A.B.S.) (approximately a 2-year, 60-credit program) or a Bachelor of Biblical Studies (B.B.S.) (a 4-year, 120-credit program)

Question 29

What graduate degree programs does Cornerstone offer?

Accepted Answer

At the graduate/seminary level, CCS offers a Master of Divinity (M.Div.), a comprehensive 3–4 year graduate degree in theology and ministry (72 credits) and a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.), a 3–6 year postgraduate program (40 credits beyond the M.Div.) designed for experienced ministry leaders

Question 30

How long does it take to complete a degree at CCS?

Accepted Answer

Program lengths at CCS vary by level and are designed to be flexible. An undergraduate certificate (15-credit program) can be finished in as little as 4 months (one semester) of full-time study.  The Associate of Biblical Studies is a 2-year program when taken full-time, requiring 60 credits.  The Bachelor of Biblical Studies is a 4-year undergraduate degree (120 credits) which some students accelerate to finish in 3–5 years.  For seminary degrees, the standard Master of Divinity program is designed to be completed in 3–4 years of graduate study (72 credits). The Doctor of Ministry is often a 2–6 year doctoral program (40 credit hours). Many CCS students take courses part-time, so your personal timeline can be adjusted to fit your life circumstances. Advisors work with you to craft a manageable degree plan, whether you are coming straight from high school or returning as an adult learner.

Question 31

Can I pursue non-ministry majors or a double degree through Cornerstone?

Accepted Answer

Yes. While CCS’s in-house degrees focus on biblical studies, theology, and ministry, the school has a unique Simultaneous Enrollment Option that allows you to earn a second, accredited bachelor’s degree in a non-ministry field through a partner institution. Thanks to a partnership with Lancaster Bible College (LBC), a CCS student can simultaneously earn a Bachelor of Biblical Studies degree from CCS and an accredited Bachelor’s degree from LBC in majors such as Business Administration, Marketing, Criminal Justice, Accounting, Ministry Leadership, or General Studies. Credits are transferred mutually between the schools, so you can work on both degrees at once. This pathway lets you receive a robust biblical education at CCS and graduate with a fully accredited degree in a professional field from LBC. It’s an excellent option if you want a Bible-college community and training while also preparing for careers in the marketplace.

Question 32

Are classes offered online, on-campus, or in a hybrid format?

Accepted Answer

CCS offers both on-campus and online classes – you can choose whichever format fits your needs, or even mix both (hybrid). We recognize the need for flexibility, so most programs are available fully online, fully on-campus, or through a blend of the two. On-campus courses typically run on a 16-week semester schedule (fall and spring). Online courses, by contrast, are delivered in a more intensive 8-week format on a rolling schedule. Online learning at CCS is asynchronous and very flexible – you can complete weekly assignments on your own schedule, making it ideal for working adults or those not local to campus. Many students do a mixture: for example, taking some classes online and some on-campus, depending on their schedule and the course offerings. Both formats are taught by the same qualified, ministry-experienced faculty, and both emphasize interaction on-campus through in-person discussion, and online through discussion boards, video lectures, or other tools. There’s no difference in content or credit value between online and on-site courses. In summary, CCS is fully dual-modality: whether you prefer sitting in a classroom or logging in from home, CCS ensures you get a quality, Bible-centered education. The choice is yours – some students even start online and later transition to on-campus (or vice versa) as life circumstances change.

Question 33

What is the typical course length and schedule?

Accepted Answer

CCS courses are offered in two main formats in terms of length: 16-week courses and 8-week courses. The 16-week courses correspond to the traditional semester schedule and are usually the format for on-campus classes (e.g. a class running from late August to December in Fall, or January to May in Spring). These allow more time for in-depth study and are great for students who prefer a standard academic pace with weekly meetings. The 8-week courses are an accelerated format primarily used for online classes. In an 8-week course, you’ll cover the same material but in half the time, which means the pace each week is more intensive. One nice feature: CCS’s flexible scheduling allows you to “balance your work and studies” effectively. You can take fewer classes during a busy life season or more when you have capacity. And if needed, summer courses are available (summer offerings are usually 8-week online classes) so you can catch up or graduate faster. So, whether you prefer a standard pace or an accelerated term, CCS has you covered.

Question 34

What technology will I need for online courses? Are there specific tech requirements?

Accepted Answer

For online classes, you will need a reliable computer and an internet connection as the basic requirements. CCS’s online platform can be accessed from any modern web browser. There’s no extreme technology requirement – if you have a desktop or laptop (PC or Mac) from the last several years with internet access, you should be fine. You’ll use the CCS online student portal (called Populi). CCS provides technical support if you run into any issues with the online systems. Additionally, all online classes are backed by qualified instructors who are “committed to providing students with a quality education” and are accessible via email or virtual office hours. They often respond quickly to questions, so even though you’re online, you won’t feel alone. In summary, the tech requirements are minimal: essentially a computer, internet, and perhaps Microsoft Office or Google Docs for assignments. The focus is on your learning, not on complicated technology. We’ve had students from all over the country (and world) successfully complete online courses with just a basic home setup.

Question 35

What student support resources does CCS provide (academic or otherwise)?

Accepted Answer

CCS may be a smaller institution, but it provides big support for its students. Academically, you will have access to one-on-one advising and mentoring. The Provost and Registrar’s office is very hands-on – they are available to “assist you with information regarding the admissions process, degree programs, CCS distinctives, and all aspects regarding student life”. In practice, this means if you need help selecting courses, planning your degree path, or if you’re struggling in a class, you can readily meet with an advisor or faculty member. The professors themselves are noted for being approachable and caring. Students often remark that instructors are happy to answer any question thoroughly and inspire great discussions in class. For academic skills, CCS courses incorporate writing and research guidance; additionally, because classes are small, instructors can give personalized feedback to help you improve. When it comes to resources, CCS has a Library (including online library access) where you can find research materials, theological texts, and digital databases for your studies. There is also an online student portal (Populi) where you can track your degree progress, access course materials, check your grades, and even pay tuition easily. For spiritual support, beyond the weekly chapel, the faculty and staff often mentor students spiritually. Many professors have open-door policies and will pray with you or offer guidance if you’re facing personal challenges. CCS being a community of believers means you’ll find plenty of encouragement – peers often form prayer groups or discussion groups to build each other up. The college also provides career and ministry guidance; professors and the internship coordinator help students prepare for job or ministry placement after graduation. Through the Internship program and connections with local churches (see next FAQ), you’ll have support gaining real-world experience. Finally, CCS’s Veterans liaison helps military-affiliated students navigate their benefits and any transition issues, and the Admissions/Student Services team assists international or out-of-state students with adjusting to CCS. In essence, although CCS does not have extensive bureaucratic departments, it offers personalized, readily accessible support in academics, spiritual life, and practical ministry preparation. You’re never just a number at CCS – the whole community is there to help you succeed.

Question 36

Does Cornerstone offer dual enrollment for high school students?

Accepted Answer

Yes! High school students who want to get a head start on college can take courses through the Dual Enrollment program at CCS. Dual enrollment allows qualified high school juniors and seniors (typically those who have completed 10th grade and have at least a 2.5 GPA) to enroll in actual college-level courses at CCS for credit. These courses count toward both high school and college requirements in many cases. The program is a “quick and affordable way to attain college credits through high school courses.”

Question 37

I’m a pastor or ministry professional – does CCS have programs for continuing education?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Many of our graduate students are current pastors, missionaries, or ministry professionals seeking to deepen their training. For those who already have a Master of Divinity or equivalent, the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program is ideal for advanced continuing education. It’s designed to allow you to remain in your ministry context while studying. The D.Min. involves practical research and projects that often directly apply to your ministry (for example, developing a new discipleship program at your church as part of your doctoral project). It’s typically a 3-year program but can be spread up to 6 years to accommodate a working pastor’s schedule. If you do not have a prior seminary degree, the Master of Divinity itself can serve as continuing education – CCS offers the M.Div. in flexible formats specifically so that those actively pastoring can enroll without moving or leaving their church. Courses are available online and scheduled considerately (with many 8-week courses), and you can take a lighter course load if needed.

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