Office of Global and Intercultural Formation

The Office of Global and Intercultural Formation serves as a catalyst for global engagement and ecumenical collaboration, equipping our community to embody the unity and diversity of God’s people. Committed to fostering intercultural awareness and theological reflection across traditions, the office facilitates international partnerships, advances ecumenical dialogue, and cultivates spaces where mutual learning and shared mission flourish. Grounded in a deep ethic of equity and wholeness, we seek to build relationships that honor the dignity of all people and contribute to the academy and the church in transformative ways.

As part of this work, we cultivate global connections and provide dedicated support for those engaging across cultures. Whether welcoming international students, fostering international partnerships, or equipping the entire community for meaningful global engagement, our initiatives reflect a commitment to learning from and alongside the worldwide church. Our work includes:

Orientation programs that help international students and scholars acclimate to academic life and the broader community
Workshops and resources on intercultural competency, global theological perspectives, and engagement across diverse traditions
Academic advising and mentorship to support students and scholars navigating cross-cultural transitions
Community-building initiatives that foster relationships across nations, traditions, and theological perspectives

By creating spaces for connection, dialogue, and collaboration, we strengthen our shared commitment to a theological education that is truly global, ecumenical, and rooted in the wholeness of God’s people.

"Duke Divinity School is dedicated to cultivating a global and intercultural formation. Our ecumenical and diverse community praises God with diverse voices. We continue to grow with and learn from our global theological institutions, churches, and students with whom we praise God together.“

Support for International Students

We support international students with resources, programming, events, and community in the following ways.

The International Students Mixer is an opportunity for new and current international students to meet and become acquainted with one another prior to the start of the fall semester. This mixer is not only an optimal social event, but is also an introduction to some of the resources and support specifically tailored to the needs of international students.

The Center for Writing and Academic Support is a core resource for students at the Divinity School. The center seeks to support domestic and international students by offering writing tutors, subject-area tutors, and academic advisors.
The university also has many resources for students who have English as a second language:
- ESL/EFL Resources
- Duke University Writing Center/Thompson Writing Program
- The English for International Students (EIS) Program offers courses in academic writing, oral communication, academic presentations, and pronunciation to more than 300 international graduate and professional students from across the university each semester.

DISC supports international students throughout the year with programming, orientation, community building and advocacy. International students can expect to hear from the DISC team weekly during the fall and spring semester about opportunities to engage.

DISC is located on the second floor of Bay 5, Smith Warehouse, 114 South Buchanan Boulevard. It is open for in-person office hours Mondays through Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Global Fellowship is an opportunity for our international student community to gather over a meal and engage in discussions relevant to their unique experiences. It is also an important space for students to share concerns, provide feedback, and connect with other members of the Duke Divinity community.

Duke Divinity supports amazing cultural houses of studies and student organizations, including:

Additional Resources for International Students

Admissions Deadlines, Visas, and Housing

Admissions Reminders

January 15: Final deadline for international applicants seeking a Duke-sponsored visa
Additional Requirements for International Applicants
Find more details on deadlines and dates

Visa Services

Contact the Duke Visa Services for assistance with visa processes.

Living Resources

Students walk up the path toward westbrook as white flowers bloom on the trees

Partnerships with International Theological Institutions and Scholars

The Office of Global and Intercultural Formation also strengthens connections with international theological institutions through partnerships and other activities. Additionally, it hosts international scholars, creating a dynamic environment for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. Through these efforts, Duke Divinity School continues to encourage global theological discourse and worldwide transformation.

International Field Education

The Divinity School’s summer internships in international Field Education place theological education and pastoral training in the context of an increasingly interconnected global community.

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World Christianity Courses & Study Abroad

The Divinity School requires many of its students to take a course in World Christianity. In addition, the school offers several international study abroad programs. In addition to providing students with opportunities for learning and service around the world, the school encourages faculty to develop cross-cultural research programs by maintaining partnerships with several international church and academic institutions.

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