DISCOVER JOSHUA WILDERNESS INSTITUTE
Investing in a Life That Matters
A Gap Year Program: What You Get—and How We Help You Get There
Financial Aid, Scholarships, and Work Opportunities Available
What If This Was the Most Valuable Year of Your Life?
An Investment in Faith, Growth, and a Strong Foundation
We recognize that the cost of a gap year is a significant decision for both students and their families.
Your tuition doesn’t just cover the basics. It supports a deeply formative experience designed to prepare you spiritually, relationally, and academically for whatever comes next.
Here’s what’s included:
- Up to 12 college credits through Biola University (a full semester of Bible classes)
- Five off-site trips, including two international experiences (Dominican Republic + Israel or Turkey)
- All meals and housing in the Joshua Lodge for 9 months
- Community-centered discipleship, Biblical training, worship, and leadership development
- A distraction-free environment designed for deep spiritual growth
This is more than a program—it’s a foundation for the rest of your life.
Full Program Cost:
$25,000
Average Out-of-Pocket Cost : $12,500 – $22,500
(after financial aid, work, and scholarship opportunities)
We’re committed to working with families to make this as accessible as possible. Learn more below about financial aid, early enrollment discounts, and work opportunities that help reduce the cost.
What Types of Financial Aid are available?
We’re committed to helping students make Joshua financially accessible through the following financial assistance programs:
Work Deferment Program
- All students work on campus during the program
- Earn an average of $3,000 toward your tuition
Post-Program Summer Work
- Apply and be hired to work at Hume Lake Christian Camps after graduation
- Earn an additional $3,000-$4,000 toward your Joshua tuition
Scholarships
- Need-based scholarships are available for students who demonstrate significant financial need
- Students are invited to apply after submitting their Joshua application
Early Enrollment Discounts
- Enroll by December 1 and receive $1,000 off tuition
- Enroll by May 1 and receive $500 off tuition
Please note: These amounts reflect average earnings. Students may make more or less and should be prepared to cover any remaining balance.
How Do I Apply for Financial Aid?
01
Apply to Joshua
02
Submit the Scholarship Application
03
Explore Summer Work Options
FAQs
How much does it cost to attend Joshua Wilderness Institute?
The total cost of the Joshua Wilderness Program is $25,000. However, you could qualify for financial assistance, scholarships, or our work program to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
How much does the average family pay after financial assistance?
Most students reduce out-of-pocket expenses through scholarships and our student work programs. The average student pays between $12,500 and $22,500 after deducting scholarships, financial aid, and work opportunities.
Does the Joshua program qualify for federal or private student loans?
No. Joshua Wilderness Institute is not an accredited academic program and therefore does not qualify for federal or private student loans.
Does Joshua Wilderness charge an application fee?
No. There is no cost when applying for the Joshua program.
Can I make monthly payments if I get accepted into the Joshua Program?
Yes! To help make the out-of-pocket portion of the program more affordable, we offer monthly payment plans.
Does Joshua Wilderness offer scholarships?
Yes! We offer scholarships to students who register before December 1 and to students who attend one of our preview weekends. Due to generous donors, we also have limited funds available for need-based scholarships.
What is included in the Joshua Wilderness Institute Cost?
The program fee includes all housing, meals, classes, books, and trips (including international trips to the Dominican Republic and Turkey).
Additional personal expenses (like personal items, snacks, souvenirs, or off-campus outings) are not included.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
