Apply to TFE

  2. The Franciscan Experience - Summer Institute
  3. Apply to TFE

Thank you for your interest in The Franciscan Experience!

We are currently accepting applications for TFE 2025.

We can invite up to 35 participants for The Franciscan Experience Summer Institute. We are looking for those who are mission-oriented, seeking to find meaning and purpose, have a theological itch, and a heart for serving others – especially the poor. Applications are reviewed by the TFE Summer leadership team consisting of FranU faculty, staff, and students. They are prayerfully considered and we expect all responses to be authentic and honest.

Disclaimer: While we wish to accept all who wish to participate, having a cap on participation is essential to the mission of TFE Summer and for logistical reasons regarding our service sites. We appreciate your understanding.

TFE Application

Please choose at least 4 of the 6 options below (option number 1 must be included) and answer them in at least 3-4 sentences each. This section is important for us to get to know you and discern if you will be a good fit for TFE. Please be honest and genuine in your answers.

These responses should be typed on a word document and saved as a PDF. After completion, click the gold “Apply to TFE” button below the questions, complete the information, then upload the PDF of your responses.

  1. Why do you want to attend The Franciscan Experience? What attracts you to this opportunity? What is your hope for attending if you are chosen as a participant?
  2. What is your idea of vocational discernment at this point? What is your biggest struggle/success with discerning your vocation?
  3. Think about your different service experiences in the past. What has been the most rewarding memory? Why? Did your faith play a role in that moment?
  4. Have you ever been exposed to theology? For example, church, schools, etc. What is your perception of theology? Please give details to support your answer.
  5. What is your prayer life like up unto this point? What are some things you would like to improve on? Give some experiences with the Mass, the Sacraments, etc. if you wish to do so.
  6. What is your current community (friends, family, etc.) like? Do they support you in your faith or lead you toward positive, moral decisions?

Bonus Question: (you can answer this question in addition to the above questions you choose) Your birthday is something to be celebrated. If you could wish for any birthday present, what would that be and why?