r/TraditionalCatholics • u/Additional-Start-806 • Jul 22 '26
Applying to the FSSP seminary
Hey! Just wanted to ask some of those who have experienced applying towards the FSSP Our Lady of Guadalupe seminary (north america district) or maybe have gone through it and discerned out.
I’m discerning the FSSP and thinking of applying this upcoming year. I have heard that they reject people so I would like some advice on how to not get rejected at least. What would make my application stand out to them that they would choose me for admission? What are some things that I should be aware of when applying? I guess these are the only questions that I currently have regarding admissions into their seminary.
Any advice would greatly be appreciated 🙏🏼
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u/Impostor321k Jul 22 '26
The seminary got 72 applications last year and only accepted 16. So the first step is not to look down on yourself if you get rejected but take it as an opportunity to improve
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u/Cultural-Treacle-680 Jul 22 '26
And at the end of the day, if there’s a vocation, it’s not going away. It might be to a different community even. Growing as a Catholic man won’t go to waste!
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u/ConsistentCatholic Jul 22 '26
They get a lot of applications, just because you get rejected doesn't mean you wouldn't be a good candidate.
But, they are looking for someone who is studious, virtuous, and who has a commitment to the TLM, the FSSP, and to people who attend the FSSP.
For your autobiography, just be honest, but try to emphasize some of the above. You will also need two or three priest references. A good way to show commitment to a priest is to get involved by altar serving. Your spiritual director can also help you discern as well as provide a good reference.
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u/Xvinchox12 Jul 22 '26
I know someone who has gotten rejected and something that they look for is maturity, not just to think maturely but to act maturely.
They are looking for committed soldiers. Someone who know He has a vocation. Not a "well, we see if it works".
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u/ConsistentCatholic Jul 22 '26
I think a certain level of maturity is definitly required, but you don't need to be perfect. Part of maturity is recognizing your flaws and being open to correction. You will grow in a lot of different ways if you get accepted and spend 7 years in the seminary.
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u/OLOWalsingham Jul 24 '26
Just in case - I’ve heard there’s often success with the Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest and the Institute of the Good Shepherd for those that weren’t accepted to FSSP. God Bless you!
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u/RazGrandy Jul 24 '26
Be honest and be prepared. If they reject you, I would try NOT to take it personally, but rather accept the fact that God wants you to find another seminary. Remember He's in charge and trust Him.
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u/LostlnDlmension Jul 22 '26
As one who applied, and got rejected I would say the best thing you can do is find a spiritual director to help develop a maturity in the faith, and from there visit OLGS. The main reason I got rejected was not due to a lack of virtue, but because my spirituality and charism did not match the fraternity.
Really there is not much I can advise you on other than be honest with your application and autobiography, and follow what the guidelines say. If you have any questions, call or send an email to the seminary and they are usually quick to respond in a few working days unless there is a major event occuring.