The Master in Islamic Religious Leadership (MIRL) program aims to attract candidates that possess the moral character, religious integrity, academic ability and personal qualities necessary to both serve and lead the Muslim community in America.
The Admissions Committee reads applications holistically to identify applicants who have the ability, interest and maturity to manage the rigors of the program, as well as the potential for future scholarly and professional growth and effective service. Please note:
Please take a moment and familiarize yourself with the MIRL Admissions Policy: Admissions Policy (updated July 2026, PDF).
| October 15, 2026 | Admissions Open for Spring 2027 |
| December 15, 2026 | Admissions for Spring 2027 close |
| February 1, 2027 | Admissions for Fall 2027 Open |
| April 1, 2027 | Review of Fall 2027 applications begins |
| June 15, 2027 | Priority Scholarship Consideration deadline |
| July 31, 2027 | Admissions for Fall 2027 Close |
| September 9, 2027 | New Student Orientation |
Follow the application portal instructions when submitting materials. Official transcripts may be sent electronically by the issuing institution to mirl@bostonislamicseminary.org.
If electronic submission is not possible, contact Admissions before mailing printed documents to: 60 Willow Street, Chelsea, MA 02150.
Applicants must show promise of their ability to pursue advanced study and research in Islamic Studies and Leadership by meeting the admissions criteria. Review the eligibility and transfer admission requirements.
Applications should be submitted through the online application portal. The applicant should follow the application’s form instructions to complete the application. The current application portal displays the applicable nonrefundable application fee.
Applicants should submit all required application documents online, as per the instructions. However, in circumstances where that is not feasible, contact Admissions to arrange delivery of printed documents.
Applicants may be invited to one or more interviews as part of the admissions review. Admissions will confirm the format and participation instructions.
Written and oral evaluations may be administered to assess Islamic knowledge, Quran memorization and Arabic proficiency.
After a holistic review of all the submitted materials, interviews, and evaluations, the MIRL Office of Admission will inform the applicant of their decision. Decisions are communicated electronically after the application review is complete.
Questions? Contact mirl@bostonislamicseminary.org.
