LEADERS ACADEMY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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WHAT DOES IT COST?

The total cost is $6,000, which includes:

• Dorm Room: Housing for the full 9-month program

• Books: All required materials

• Travel Expenses: Leaders Academy outings (lodging, food, and travel)

• Dorm Fee: Maintenance, cleaning, and post-stay restoration

• Internet: 24/7 access throughout the program

Not included: Meals, laundry, incidentals, and personal spending. We recommend budgeting $300–$400 per month for these expenses.

Interns are not permitted to hold a job during the program. However, we provide opportunities within our church community to earn extra income, and you'll be supported by a caring environment.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

• Full Payment: $6,000 due August 1

• Two Payments: $3,000 due August 1 and $3,000 due December 1

• Monthly Plan: $650/month for 10 months (total $6,500), starting August 1

WHO IS LEADERS ACADEMY FOR?

Leaders Academy is designed for young adults ages 18–25 who desire to grow in their relationship with Jesus, develop a biblical worldview, discover their calling, and be equipped for leadership in every area of life. Whether you feel called to ministry or simply want a strong spiritual foundation for your future, Leaders Academy can help prepare you for what's next.

DO I HAVE TO FEEL CALLED TO MINISTRY?

No. While some interns pursue vocational ministry, many attend Leaders Academy to strengthen their faith, develop leadership skills, and gain biblical foundations that apply to business, education, family life, and other careers. Our goal is to help students become effective followers of Christ regardless of their profession.

WHAT DENOMINATION IS LEADERS ACADEMY?

Leaders Academy is a ministry of Christian Ministries Church, a non-denominational, Bible-believing church. We welcome students from many Christian backgrounds who desire to grow in their relationship with Jesus and are willing to fully participate in the program.

WHAT MAKES LEADERS ACADEMY DIFFERENT?

Leaders Academy is more than a classroom experience. Students receive biblical instruction, practical ministry opportunities, intentional discipleship, leadership training, and daily community life in a Christ-centered environment. Our focus is not simply on information, but transformation.

Unlike a traditional Bible college, Leaders Academy is a nine-month leadership and discipleship internship focused on helping students build a strong biblical foundation while gaining real-life ministry experience, practical life skills, and meaningful mentorship.

WHY IS THE PROGRAM NINE MONTHS LONG?

Nine months provides enough time for biblical instruction, personal discipleship, ministry experience, leadership development, and meaningful life change. Transformation takes time, and the internship is intentionally structured to allow students to develop lasting habits and a deeper walk with Christ.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL WEEK LOOK LIKE?

A typical week includes classroom instruction, personal Bible reading, church services, ministry involvement, leadership development, mentoring opportunities, and community life with fellow interns. Every week is intentionally designed to promote spiritual growth, practical leadership skills, and real-life ministry experience.

WHAT DOES A TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?

While every day is different, most weekdays include personal devotions, classroom instruction, ministry responsibilities, meals, study time, physical activity, and community life. Evenings often include church services, small groups, or special events. The schedule is intentionally designed to cultivate spiritual disciplines, leadership skills, and lasting relationships.

WHAT MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE?

Interns gain hands-on experience serving in areas such as worship, youth ministry, children's ministry, media production, hospitality, outreach, administration, and church events. Ministry opportunities vary based on individual interests, gifts, and ministry track placement.

IS MENTORSHIP GUARANTEED?

Mentorship is a core priority at Leaders Academy. Interns receive guidance through classes, ministry tracks, and personal relationships with staff. Our team is intentional about investing in each intern and is available for additional discipleship for those who pursue it.

WHAT KIND OF STUDENT SUCCEEDS AT LEADERS ACADEMY?

The students who thrive are teachable, faithful, humble, willing to serve, eager to grow, and committed to pursuing Jesus. You don't have to have all the answers—you simply need a heart that is willing to learn.

DO I NEED TO HAVE MY LIFE "TOGETHER" BEFORE I APPLY?

No. Leaders Academy is designed for students who are teachable and desire to grow. We don't expect perfection—we're looking for humility, a willingness to learn, and a genuine desire to follow Jesus.

WHAT IS THE LIVING SITUATION LIKE?

Dorms are located on campus, with separate wings for men and women divided by a shared kitchen and common area. Interns share a room with a carefully selected roommate. Each hall includes two communal bathrooms (shared with approximately five or more people), each with three showers, three stalls, and a large vanity with three sinks.

WHAT IF I DON'T KNOW ANYONE?

Most interns arrive without knowing anyone else. Within a short time, students develop strong friendships through living together, serving together, and growing together. Many graduates describe these friendships as lifelong.

CAN I HAVE A CAR?

Yes. Interns are permitted to have a vehicle on campus. However, vehicle use may be limited during certain program activities, and interns are expected to follow all campus guidelines regarding transportation and travel.

CAN I HAVE MY CELL PHONE?

Yes. Interns may have their phones and personal electronics. However, we encourage healthy habits that prioritize relationships, spiritual growth, and being fully present during classes, church services, and ministry activities.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

Accepted students will receive a detailed packing list before move-in day. In general, interns should bring clothing for all seasons, bedding, personal toiletries, a Bible, notebook, laptop (recommended), and any personal items needed for daily living.

DO I NEED TO BRING A LAPTOP?

A laptop is recommended but not required. Many class resources, communication, and ministry projects are easier to complete with a personal computer.

IS THERE HOMEWORK?

There are no traditional assignments such as tests or reports. The primary expectation is reading, including the Old Testament, New Testament, and Life Application books. Classes are fast-paced and require strong note-taking, but outside of reading, there is no formal homework.

CAN I TAKE COLLEGE CLASSES WHILE ATTENDING?

Because Leaders Academy is a full-time commitment, we generally do not recommend taking college courses simultaneously. The schedule is intentionally designed to allow interns to fully engage in the discipleship, leadership, and ministry opportunities provided throughout the year.

WHAT BREAKS DO INTERNS RECEIVE DURING THE PROGRAM?

Leaders Academy includes several scheduled breaks throughout the nine-month internship, giving interns time to rest, reconnect with family, and recharge.

Interns receive:

• One-week Thanksgiving Break

• Three-week Christmas Break

• One-week Spring Break

In addition to these major breaks, there are several free weekends scheduled throughout the year when interns are able to go home or spend personal time with family and friends.

While there are opportunities for rest and time away, the internship is intentionally designed to build a strong Christ-centered community. Interns are expected to fully participate during scheduled program weeks and activities.

CAN I GO HOME DURING THE YEAR?

Yes. Interns may go home during scheduled breaks and designated free weekends throughout the year. Because community life is an essential part of the Leaders Academy experience, interns are expected to remain on campus and fully participate during regular program weeks and scheduled activities.

WILL I HAVE FREE TIME?

Yes. While the internship is full and intentional, interns have personal time throughout the week, scheduled free weekends, and holiday breaks. Time management is an important leadership skill that interns develop during the program.

CAN MY FAMILY VISIT?

Yes. Families are welcome to attend church services and many campus events. Because interns have a full schedule, visits should be coordinated around the program calendar.

CAN I BE IN A RELATIONSHIP WHILE AT LEADERS ACADEMY?

Married individuals are not eligible to attend. Pre-existing relationships are permitted, but interns may not pursue new relationships during the program. This allows interns to devote their full attention to their spiritual growth, leadership development, and the unique opportunities the internship provides.

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS FOR PERSONAL CONDUCT?

Interns are expected to demonstrate Christian character in their words, relationships, attitudes, and actions. Leaders Academy has standards that promote spiritual growth, healthy community, and personal responsibility. Accepted students receive a Student Handbook outlining these expectations.

WHAT IF I STRUGGLE DURING THE YEAR?

Spiritual growth often includes challenges. Leaders Academy provides encouragement, accountability, and personal support through staff mentors who are committed to helping interns grow through every season.

IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?

As a non-profit, Leaders Academy does not offer scholarships or financial aid. Interns are responsible for tuition and living expenses. However, opportunities for part-time, flexible work through church families and local businesses are available to help cover weekly needs.

DO I NEED TO RAISE SUPPORT?

No. Interns are responsible for their tuition and personal expenses, but fundraising is not required. Many students save beforehand, receive support from family or their home church, or earn spending money through approved work opportunities.

WHAT IF I HAVE FOOD ALLERGIES OR SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS?

We do our best to accommodate reasonable dietary needs whenever possible. Please discuss any medical or dietary concerns during the application process so we can determine the best way to serve you.

CHURCH AFFILIATION

Interns attend Christian Ministries Church. To learn more about the church's beliefs, visit:

https://cmchurch.com

HOW MANY STUDENTS ARE ACCEPTED EACH YEAR?

Leaders Academy intentionally maintains a limited enrollment to preserve a strong community atmosphere and ensure meaningful mentorship. Class sizes are limited to 28 interns.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER GRADUATION?

Graduates leave with a stronger biblical foundation, practical leadership experience, meaningful ministry training, and lifelong relationships. Many alumni pursue college, ministry, missions, business, education, or other careers while continuing to apply the principles learned during their time at Leaders Academy.

IS LEADERS ACADEMY ACCREDITED?

Leaders Academy is not a college and does not offer accredited college credits. It is a Christian leadership and discipleship internship focused on biblical worldview, spiritual formation, leadership development, and practical ministry experience.

HOW DOES THE APPLICATION PROCESS WORK?

The application process includes:

• Completing the online application

• Submitting transcripts or GED documentation

• Providing required references

• Participating in an interview

• Receiving an admissions decision

Most applicants are notified within approximately two weeks after completing all application requirements.

WHAT IF I'M NOT SURE WHAT GOD IS CALLING ME TO DO?

That's exactly why many students attend Leaders Academy. The program is designed to help young adults grow spiritually, discover their gifts, develop leadership skills, and gain clarity about God's purpose for their lives.