Teens Bible School

TBS2026-07-13T21:26:47-04:00
Mark Your Calendar: July 19th, 5PM EST
TBS Orientation
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About TBS

Registration for 2027 opens on November 2nd 1pm EST.

In today’s hectic and technologically advanced times, many parents and church leaders are searching to help their teenagers develop a deeper faith in God and to ignite young hearts to serve Him. The faith of a teen greatly influences the outcome of the identity he/she develops; therefore, the vision of Teens Bible School is to reach out to this generation and assist them in:

  • Expanding their fundamental Biblical knowledge and building up faith.
  • Understanding the importance of staying pure.
  • Developing exemplary Christian characters.
  • Answering life’s essential questions.
  • Providing a variety of activities, classes, and experiences that develop practical life skills.

Our Mission

Ephesians 6:11 NIV
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

  • We strive to build up Christian faith by equipping our students with fundamental Biblical principles.
  • We aim to affirm right priorities and pure life style while showing a bright alternative to today’s liberalism.

Teens Bible School Term 1 2027: June 13th – July 10th, 2027
Orientation
: Sunday, June 13th 2027 at 4:00PM
Graduation: Saturday, July 10th 2027 at 5:00PM

***Due to transportation and lodging limitations, we kindly ask that you do not arrive earlier than Friday, June 11th, and do not stay longer than Sunday, July 11th.

Teens Bible School Term 1 2026: June 14th – July 11th, 2026
Orientation
: Sunday, June 14th 2026 at 4:00PM
Graduation: Saturday, July 11th 2026 at 5:00PM

***Due to transportation and lodging limitations, we kindly ask that you do not arrive earlier than Friday, June 11th, and do not stay longer than Sunday, July 11th.

Teens Bible School 2026 Term 2: July 19th – August 8th, 2026
Orientation
: Sunday, July 19th 2026 at 5:00PM
Graduation: Saturday, August 8th 2026 at 5:00PM

***Due to transportation and lodging limitations, we kindly ask that you do not arrive earlier than Friday, July 17th, and do not stay longer than Sunday, August 9th.

Counselors

*Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a email from a TBS representative with further details.

Serving as a counselor plays a vital role in the life of each student. The most important way to influence teens is by being a Godly example and spiritual mentor for them. You will spend a lot of time answering questions, praying, and advising your group. In addition, you will:

  • Live with a group of 7-9 teenagers and provide 24/7 supervision.
  • Provide for basic needs such as cooking, transportation, laundry.
  • Attend all teen events, activities, field trips, and church services.

If you feel that God is calling you to serve and invest into young lives, you can fill out the Counselor/Volunteer Application.

Admissions 2027

We are glad to hear your interest in our teens program!

We are able to accept 100 students in 2027.

Due to high demand, we are unable to accept second-year attendees.

You need to take the following steps to register:

  • You must be between the age of 14 to 17, inclusively.
  • Fill out the Application to register. It is very important that all fields are completed. If your application is incomplete, it will not be processed.
  • Include a $50 non-refundable application fee.
  • Include a $400 deposit. This deposit will be applied towards your tuition. See Tuition Cost page for more information. Make checks/money orders payable to TBS.

*Please note: When you submit your application, your check will be cashed and card processed; however, this does not mean that you are accepted to TBS. In the event that you are not accepted, you will receive a full refund of your deposit. However, if you decide not to come to TBS after final acceptance and registration, you will NOT receive a refund. You will receive an official reply from the admission office by Feb 19.

All applicants will receive an official reply regarding the admission status by February 19.

Admissions 2026

We are glad to hear your interest in our teens program!

We are able to accept 100 students in 2026.

We are having two terms for the first time, accepting a total of 200 students through both terms combined.

Due to high demand, we are unable to accept second-year attendees.

You need to take the following steps to register:

  • You must be between the age of 14 to 17, inclusively.
  • Fill out the Application to register. It is very important that all fields are completed. If your application is incomplete, it will not be processed.
  • Include a $50 non-refundable application fee.
  • Include a $400 deposit. This deposit will be applied towards your tuition. See Tuition Cost page for more information. Make checks/money orders payable to TBS.

*Please note: When you submit your application, your check will be cashed and card processed; however, this does not mean that you are accepted to TBS. In the event that you are not accepted, you will receive a full refund of your deposit. However, if you decide not to come to TBS after final acceptance and registration, you will NOT receive a refund. You will receive an official reply from the admission office by Feb 21st.

All applicants will receive an official reply regarding the admission status by February 21st.

Program Cost 2027

Teens Bible School Term 1 2027: June 13th – July 10th, 2027

The program cost is $1,900 + a $50 non-refundable application fee.

Due with application submission: $450 ($400 deposit and $50 application fee)

THE PROGRAM COST COVERS

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Utilities
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Fri)
  • Events and Field-Trips

PAYMENTS BREAKDOWN

  • $50 application fee is non-refundable**
  • $400 conditionally refundable** deposit, counts towards program cost
  • $1,500 balance is due by May 14th (late fees apply*)

REMAINING BALANCE PAYMENT OPTIONS

Due date: May 14th at 1 pm EST

  • Online
  • Check 
    • Checks payable to SMBS
    • The envelope must be postmarked on or before the due date above
    • Mail the check to TBS Admissions, 342 Girvin Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32225

* LATE FEES:

  • $100 late application fee for applications submitted after January 1st, 2027
  • $200 late fee for payments processed after May 14th, 2027

** REFUND POLICY:

  • Application fee – non-refundable.
  • Tuition deposit after an official acceptance – non-refundable. Once you have been accepted to the program and you change your mind about attending or your circumstances change, you will NOT receive a refund of your deposit. In the event that your application is denied for various reasons, we will refund your tuition deposit in full.
  • Credit card processing fee – non-refundable.
  • Late application or late payment fee – non-refundable.
  • Payment plan fee – non-refundable.

TAX FILING:

SMBS program cost is not eligible as an educational institution to issue Form 1098 -T for a tax write-off.

Payments – How to get to the payment page

Program Cost 2026

Teens Bible School Term 1 2026: June 14th – July 11th, 2026

The program cost is $1,900 + a $50 non-refundable application fee.

Due with application submission: $450 ($400 deposit and $50 application fee)

Teens Bible School 2026 Term 2: July 19th – August 8th, 2026

The program cost is $1,400 + a $50 non-refundable application fee.

Due with application submission: $450 ($400 deposit and $50 application fee)

THE PROGRAM COST COVERS

  • Tuition
  • Housing
  • Utilities
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon-Fri)
  • Events and Field-Trips

PAYMENTS BREAKDOWN

  • $50 application fee is non-refundable**
  • $400 conditionally refundable** deposit, counts towards program cost
  • $1,500 balance is due by May 15th (late fees apply*)

REMAINING BALANCE PAYMENT OPTIONS

Due date: May 15th at 1 pm EST

  • Online
  • Check 
    • Checks payable to SMBS
    • The envelope must be postmarked on or before the due date above
    • Mail the check to TBS Admissions, 342 Girvin Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32225

* LATE FEES:

  • $100 late application fee for applications submitted after January 1st, 2026
  • $200 late fee for payments processed after May 15th, 2026

** REFUND POLICY:

  • Application fee – non-refundable.
  • Tuition deposit after an official acceptance – non-refundable. Once you have been accepted to the program and you change your mind about attending or your circumstances change, you will NOT receive a refund of your deposit. In the event that your application is denied for various reasons, we will refund your tuition deposit in full.
  • Credit card processing fee – non-refundable.
  • Late application or late payment fee – non-refundable.
  • Payment plan fee – non-refundable.

TAX FILING:

SMBS program cost is not eligible as an educational institution to issue Form 1098 -T for a tax write-off.

Payments – How to get to the payment page

Curriculum

Teens Bible School curriculum provides many opportunities for spiritual growth. In addition, it includes a wide variety of activities aimed at getting teens out of their comfort zones and developing practical life skills.

GENERAL ACTIVITIES

Class Lectures

Monday through Friday, outstanding instructors will teach three 40 minute classes a day geared at topics that concern teens today. Majority of the lectures will be in English.

Chapel

There is no better way to start the day than with chapel. Every morning, time is dedicated for worship, prayer, and encouraging testimonies.

Group Presentation

The class is divided into small groups and assigned a topic for their presentation. The last week of class, each group presents their topic using specific guidelines and creative methods with each student taking an active role in participation.

Counselor Hour

Throughout the week, discussion sessions are held with each counselor and their group. During this time, counselors connect with each teen on a personal level by answering questions that trouble them and investing in each of their lives.

Choir

All students partake in choir and attend weekly rehearsals where they are exposed to music appreciation and vocal training. The choir participates in local church events and graduation ceremony.

Drama Club

This class is unique because it enables students to express themselves in a different way. Important skills are taught through public speaking and sharing Biblical concepts during theatrical performance.

Team Building

These classes are filled with activities and games that teach teamwork and encourage everyone to work together.

Etiquette Classes

During these sessions, proper etiquette is taught with special concentrations for guys and girls. The instructor also elaborates on the men’s and women’s role in society using Biblical perspectives.

International Culture Classes

In this class, a new nationality is discussed at each session. Students have the opportunity to learn in-depth about cultures such as Jewish, Slavic, and French through their history, language, national costumes and even taste some of the features of their cuisine.

Community Outreach

Sharing the Gospel is not always an easy task especially for teenagers. With this in mind, we developed a class that presents methods and techniques for sharing the Gospel with people on the street.

Design Class

During this class, students are presented with basic elements of design. Their challenge is to create a unique layout for the TBS class t-shirt.

Sports

This is a weekend activity where everyone gets a chance to play sports, work together, and enjoy the outdoors.

ACTIVITIES FOR GIRLS

Cooking

Each girl has the opportunity to take part in a hands on cooking class. With an experienced cook as their guide, girls learn to make certain dishes and desserts from scratch.

Hair Design

This class is taught by stylists who will demonstrate the basic principles and techniques of hair design such as braiding, curling, and styling.

Crafts

Another creative hands on activity is the crafts class where girls are given the opportunity to create purses, shirts, cards, and much more under the instruction of an experienced designer.

Event Decor

Girls are also involved in event decoration and taught how to make centerpieces, place settings, table covers and other details of decorating. They then stage an event for their counselors as a way to show their ability and appreciation.

ACTIVITIES FOR BOYS

Grilling Class

We teach our men the basics of outdoor grilling. Using three different fuel methods, we learn how to grill on gas, charcoal, and smoking pellets. We teach in the class, then we go out to the grill and take what we learned and apply it to the grills!

Woodshop

In this practical and hands on course, guys are taught basic woodworking skills and proper use of power tools.

Survivor

This class is not an ordinary experience. The instructor demonstrates basic survival skills by going out to a nearby forest and teaching how to start a fire, recognize poisonous plants, build shelters, and keep warm. Teamwork is also emphasized as tasks are accomplished.

Mechanics

In this class, guys are given an opportunity to work on an actual car. They replace tires, car parts, change oil, paint, and are given the thrill to drive stick shift.

Fishing

Fishing is a great activity that can be done at any age. Fishing takes little time and practice. Our team teaches students about fishing techniques through hands on experiences. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is a great accessible spot for fishing, where the fishing license is included in the admission.

Field Trips

TBS students not only have classroom experiences, they also get to go on class field trips. These unforgettable trips provide both an educational and entertaining experience. Below is a list of places that students have gone to in previous years.

Busch Gardens (Tampa, FL)

African-themed adventure park in Tampa, Florida that combines a world-class zoo with thrilling roller coasters and family attractions. The park is home to thousands of animals representing more than 200 species and features immersive habitats, safari experiences, live shows, and some of Florida’s most popular coasters, including Iron Gwazi, Cheetah Hunt, and SheiKra. It offers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and high-adrenaline rides, making it a destination for both families and thrill-seekers.

Beach (Jacksonville, FL)

Everyone’s dream is to swim in the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a unique opportunity to enjoy the sun, water, and sand of the local beach.

Sight and Sound Theater (Lancaster, PA)

The Sight and Sound Theater is an exciting way to see a Bible story come to life. Students have the opportunity to experience the amazing performance filled with colorful costumes and professional actors. This captivating show leaves a lifelong memory.

White Water Rafting (Ocoee, Tennessee)

This trip includes rafting and sightseeing through the beautiful rivers and mountains of Tennessee. This is an exhilarating and breathtaking experience that is often rated as the group’s favorite.

Ginnie Springs (High Springs, Florida)

& Ichetucknee Springs (Fort White, Florida)

Here teens get a chance to swim, snorkel, and tube down rivers and bends of the beautiful Florida springs where a spectacular underwater world opens up with huge grottos and colorful fish. The group also enjoys sports, games, barbeque, and fellowship.

Ice Skating (Jacksonville, FL)

With Florida being so warm, it’s always nice to get a little ice into the picture. Teens have the opportunity to go ice skating; a great place to cool off and enjoy each other’s company.

St. Augustine Bike Ride (St. Augustine, FL)

St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the US and was the first European Settlement. Today, it is a tourist attraction with many shops, museums, historic buildings, and scenery. Teens ride bikes through this enchanting town.

* Field trip locations are chosen based on age group and availability of tickets.

Lodging & Transportation

Student life is an unforgettable time! We would like for you to feel welcome and comfortable in a new city, state, church and living arrangement.

Housing

TBS rents houses that are used as dorms where a groups of students live together along with their counselors. The houses are specially prepared, furnished, and equipped to ensure a comfortable living experience. There will be separate housing arrangements for the boys and the girls. Counselors will be always available to provide assistance with washing clothes, cooking, and any other basic needs.

Transportation

As the students arrive, their counselors take full responsibility to provide transportation to all needed destinations including class, activities, church, and stores. Pick up and drop off to the airport will also be provided.

Meals

Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be provided for each student at school during the week. Food will also be available at the dorm houses on weekends.

 TEENS BIBLE SCHOOL RULES AND REGULATIONS

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GENERAL

  1. All students are required to obey the school’s rules, administration and counselors. Students do not have the right to disturb the discipline established by the instructor, counselor, house leader or the administration.
  2. As Christians, students must respect the upbringings, views, and opinions of others. 
  3. Students are required to attend all lectures and activities assigned to them. Attendance of each service at the local church is also mandatory. 
  4. Students are required to provide the counselors with an explanation for any absence from class, stating a specific and acceptable reason (acceptable reasons are determined by the administration).
  5. All students are required to be punctual and arrive on time to all lectures, activities, and events. 
  6. Electronic device usage (Phones, tablets, smart watches, laptops, etc):
    1. All devices, excluding phones and watches, will be turned in on the first day and returned on the last day of school.
    2. Phones and watches: 
      1. Mon-Fri: collected 11 pm; returned after the last scheduled class 
      2. Sat-Sun: collected 11 pm; returned in the morning 
    3. Use is prohibited during scheduled school-related events.
  7. During the semester, whether for disciplinary reasons or through a specific challenge, staff may request that students temporarily surrender their phones and other electronic devices. 
  8. Students must abide by the school-established dress code in school and in church. (See Dress Code List bellow)
  9. Students are not allowed to go home during breaks unless given specific permission by their counselor or administration.
  10. Students are not allowed to enter the church kitchen. 
  11. Students are not allowed to take items such as furniture or equipment from the church/school building without permission.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

DRESS CODE FOR TBS

DRESS CODE FOR LADIES

  • Casual attire that is appropriate in a professional office or church environment. This includes jeans, casual, and dress pants. 
  • Bottoms must be appropriately fitted and should not be excessively tight.
  • Skirt and dress length must be to the knee length and may not have a high slit.
  • Shirts must have sleeves. No tank-tops, off shoulder tops, spaghetti straps, or tube-tops for any activities, and in church.
  • The neckline of any blouse or dress must not reveal cleavage.
  • No sheer, see-through, or mesh tops.
  • Hair must be kept neat, clean, and well-groomed. 

LADIES ARE NOT ALLOWED TO WEAR:

  • Destroyed pants or jeans. (no rips, slits, or tears)
  • No Shorts, leggings, jeggings, or leather pants. 
  • Extravagant earrings or jewelry; all jewelry must be dainty. 
  • No lip-flops or slippers. 

DRESS CODE FOR GENTLEMEN

  • Should wear casual attire that is appropriate in a professional office or church environment.
  • Hair must be kept neat, clean, and well-groomed.
  • Must wear jeans, khaki pants, or dress pants.

GENTLEMEN ARE NOT ALLOWED TO WEAR:

  • Sleeveless shirts.
  • No sheer, see-through, or mesh tops.
  • Shorts or sweatpants, sports pants, or ripped jeans.
  • Flip-flops, slippers, sandals, and clogs. 
  • No earrings.

BOTH LADIES & GENTLEMEN

Throughout the semester, at school, in school-related activities, at church, or in the dorm house, students may not:

  • To have facial and/or body piercings. 
  • To have unnatural hairstyles and colors. 
  • Hats and headwear are prohibited during class lectures/prayers and services.

DRESS CODE FOR ALL LSC CHURCH SERVICES

  • Ladies: Must wear a skirt or dress that is knee-length or longer, and may not have a high slit. 
  • Ladies: Shirts must have sleeves that come down past your armpit. No tank-tops, off-the-shoulder tops, spaghetti straps, or tube-tops. 
  • Ladies: Extravagant earrings or jewelry. Jewelry must be dainty when on the stage. 
  • Gentlemen: Must wear dress pants. 
  • Gentlemen: Must wear a polo or collared dress shirt. 
  • Gentlemen: Must wear clean and presentable shoes. 

SWIMMING/OUTDOORS/FIELD TRIP DRESS CODE:

  • Ladies: While swimming in the presence of boys, ladies must wear a tank top and shorts over their bathing suit. The tank top and shorts should not be see-through when wet. 
  • When outdoors for physical activities, students may wear shorts, as long as the shorts are as long as their middle finger when the arms are extended down and against the body. 
  • Sneakers are to be worn for physical activities that include running, climbing, etc.

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CLASSROOM

  1. Students must not disrupt the rules set by the instructor or administration.
    1. Talking and disturbing others during lectures. 
    2. Sleeping during lectures. 
    3. Listening to music during class. 
    4. Using ANY electronic devices during lectures.
  2. Students must complete and submit all assignments by the given deadline. Late submissions will result in point deductions.
  3. Cheating on exams and any other in-class or out-of-class assignments is strictly prohibited. Lying is unacceptable.
  4. Students cannot change their assigned seats independently or without permission.
  5. Leaving the classroom during class is not permitted. Students will have a 10-minute break between classes and a 50-minute lunch break.
  6. Eating is not allowed in the classroom during lectures.
  7. Students are responsible for the cleanliness and upkeep of the school building. Those on daily duties are responsible for the general cleanliness of the classroom and school building.

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CHRISTIAN MORALS

  1. During the course of the school semester, students are not allowed to start dating. 

Conduct that is strictly prohibited between ladies and gentlemen:

  1. Holding hands. 
  2. Sitting on each other’s laps. 
  3. Hugging. 
  4. Kissing. 
  5. Giving massages. 
  6. Swimming together. 
  7. Being together in any kind of vehicle alone with the opposite gender.
  8. Having sexual relations. 
  9. Spending time together one-on-one. 
  10. Sleeping, cuddling, and engaging in intentional physical closeness whilst in the same bed (applicable to both genders).
  11. Walking alone with the opposite gender.

Behavior that is strictly prohibited

  1. Profanity, inappropriate language, and gossip. (Ephesians 4:29)
  2. The use of physical force in resolving arguments.
  3. Theft. 
  4. Any form of bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
  5. Check in for anyone other than yourself. 
  6. Using or selling alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs, vaping, e-cigs, or narcotics, chewables/ ZYN pouches.
  7. Fermenting drinks. (any drinks higher an ABV of .5%)
  8. Getting a tattoo. 
  9. Getting any piercings. 

Students are not allowed to: 

  1. Drink any energy drinks throughout the whole TBS experience
  2. Engage with music, movies, or media that contain crude language, profanity, sexual content, or violent themes.
  3. Irresponsible internet usage: Visiting pornography sites or inappropriate pages, or torrenting.
  4. Practice witchcraft and/or bring any witchcraft-affiliated items on campus. This includes but is not limited to: books, tarot cards, zodiac charts, amulets, crystals, etc.
  5. Play on consoles, handheld gaming devices, and any gaming-related peripherals (controllers, headsets, etc.).
  6. Post inappropriate pictures online during the school semester or on your missionary trip.
  7. Gambling: betting on any events, games, lottery/scratch-offs, online/offline gambling platforms, games of chance (poker or roulette).
  8. Bringing a pet/animal to the dorm house.
  9. Leave the city of Jacksonville area without permission. 
  10. Have firearms, knives (except kitchen tools), fireworks, and other dangerous items on campus.

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DORM HOUSING & TRANSPORTATION 

Rules for students’ rented house before, during school, and after graduation

  1. Curfew: 10:30pm-6:00am (Phone turned in by 11pm, Lights out at 11:30pm)
  2. Students must spend the night only in their assigned lodging house. Spending the night elsewhere is allowed only with the consent of the administration.
  3. Students are responsible for keeping the house clean and tidy, including the kitchen, bathrooms, and their bedroom. House checks will be conducted periodically.
  4. Students must spend the night only in their assigned house.
  5. Organizing gatherings or parties without the approval of the administration is strictly prohibited. This includes after graduation. They are not to stay past 9 pm on any given day.
  6.  Students should maintain personal hygiene and report illnesses to the administration.
  7. Irresponsible/illegal operation of a vehicle is strictly prohibited. It endangers not only your life but also those around you.

______________________________________________________________________________________

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS

  1. Students hold a financial obligation for any damages to school inventory, school or church property, place of lodging, or school transportation. 
  2. The school does not bear any responsibility for medical costs associated with illness, medical condition, trauma, or automobile accident. 
  3. If a student withdraws from school for any reason or if the student is expelled, he/she will not receive a tuition refund.
  4. TBS administration reserves the right to search a student’s personal belongings (including luggage, backpacks, and other items) at any time if there is a concern for the safety, well-being, or conduct of the student or others. These searches may be conducted without prior notice and in the presence of a staff member or counselor.

______________________________________________________________________________________

DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS

  1. For every violated rule or regulation, the student will face appropriate disciplinary actions. Once the student receives a written Strike, parents will be notified. The written Strike will be permanently placed in the student’s file. After receiving three written Strikes, the school reserves the right to expel the student without a tuition refund. Administration has the right to contact the student’s home church leaders. 
  2. In the case of outright violation of Christian morals and Biblical principles with behavior such as fornication, deceit, theft, alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, the administration reserves the right to expel offenders immediately, without Strike, and tuition refund. 

______________________________________________________________________________________

CONDITIONS TO RECEIVE A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION 

  1. The final grade at the end of the program must be at least a C (70% out of 100%). 
  2. All assignments, exams, projects, practical experiences, and forms must be submitted. 
  3. The school holds the right to withhold a certificate from any student who receives three strikes or is caught cheating on exams or assignments. 
  4. The student may not exceed the 10-hour limit of missed class/program time.
  5. The student does not uphold the culture of SMBS Ministries.
  6. Tuition cost is paid in full. 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Downtown Jacksonville

Jacksonville is the largest city in Florida by population and the largest city by area in the contiguous United States. It is located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in the northeastern part of the state. With warm temperatures throughout the year and dozens of beaches nearby, Jacksonville has unlimited recreational possibilities.

The city is divided by St. Johns River that flows through the city’s downtown which is lined with skyscrapers and bridges.

Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier

The Atlantic coast of Northern Florida is a popular spot for surfing, swimming and boating. The Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier is an accessible spot for fishing, with no license required.

Downtown St. Augustine, FL

One of the closest most historical cities to Jacksonville is St. Augustine. It is located a short 45 minute drive south of Downtown Jacksonville.

This city is the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the continental United States. Jacksonville is also about two hours away from Orlando, a popular theme park spot.

Is every student required to go on a missionary trip?2019-09-23T18:01:58-04:00

For SMBS:

We believe that this program is primarily focused on training and sending every student on the missions field, achieving what Jesus has called us to. We understand there are many factors that can make this difficult, so we look forward to making this goal achievable. To go on a missions trip as a student after graduation, a student needs to have a passing grade, and be in good standing with their disciplinary record.

Short term and long term missions trips will consist of traveling to countries such as Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, Napal, Russia, Ukraine, Honduras, Spain, areas of Asia and throughout the US.

For IDT:

You can still attend IDT even if you are not able to go on a missionary trip; however, we highly encourage you to go in order to complete your experience.

Students will not be allowed to go if academic or conduct standards are not met. Mission interviews will be conducted and preference will be given to those that have a passion for ministry, have skills, and succeed academically.

Will I be able to go on a missionary trip after the completion of the program?2019-02-07T11:48:54-05:00

For SMBS and IDT:

Yes, there will be opportunity to go on a mission trip. However the mission trip expenses are not included in the tuition.

How much money will I need for personal expenses while in school?2019-02-07T11:46:41-05:00

For SMBS and IDT:

You will need approximately $200-$300 a month for your personal expenses.

Below are some optional expenses:

  • Class photo and student portrait – $20
  • Album/Yearbook – $50
  • Class sweater or hoodie – $30
  • 2 Class t-shirts – Free

For TBS:

You will need roughly $40 a week for personal expenses (ice-cream, fun food, etc).

How can I raise money to pay for my SMBS Ministries tuition or missions trip?2019-02-07T11:43:00-05:00

Below you can find some ideas on raising money for your tuition:

  • Car Wash: Involve your church’s youth to help you organize a car wash for fundraising.
  • Sales: You can earn money by selling cookies, baked items, lunches, etc. Ask permission to hold such sales at your church, other local churches, or businesses. Ask your friends to help out.
  • Local Church: You can ask your church to help cover part of your tuition. With your church’s permission, tell the congregation about SMBS Ministries and your future missionary trip plans.
  • Advertise: Many churches print weekly bulletins, have websites, or publish a newspaper. You can include your missionary trip information and have a wonderful opportunity to tell others about your future plans and ways that they can donate.
  • Social Media: Use your Facebook or blog page to ask for support. You will be surprised by the results.
  • Letters: Sending letters is one of the most effective ways to collect funds for missionary trips. On average, you can receive up to $2,500 by mailing well written letters to approximately 75 people. You think you don’t know 75 people? Think again. Don’t limit yourself by just family and friends. Send out letters to everyone who you can think of: friends, relatives, churches, youth leaders, businesses, teachers, employers, etc.
  • Business Sponsorship: Often businesses reserve funds for donations and contributions. Ask your local businessmen to become your partners or to donate money for your missionary trip. Remember, they don’t always have to be Christian to make a donation.
  • Partnership: Ask your friends or family members to sponsor you for the time that you are at SMBS Ministries and missions. For example, find several friends who will donate $10, $20, or $50 a month. Give them your bank number so they can just transfer funds or give them your address so they can mail you checks.
What language are the lectures taught in?2019-02-07T11:39:36-05:00

The majority of the lectures for the SMBS and IDT programs will be taught by instructors speaking in English  and a small percentage speaking in Russian.

The notes, tests and administrative work will be in English.

The entire program for TBS will be instructed and administered in English.

Will there be a dress code?2019-02-07T11:36:12-05:00

Yes there is a dress code that is enforced for each program.

Please see the Rules and Regulations tab in each of the programs.

What is the minimum age to attend our programs?2019-02-07T11:33:51-05:00

To attend the following programs:

SMBS: Students who are 18 years or older.

TBS: Students must be between the age of 14 to 17, inclusively.

IDT: Students who are 18 years or older.

Camp Iceberg: Teens must be between the age of 14 to 17, inclusively.

Will there be breaks in the school program?2019-02-07T11:30:11-05:00

In short, No.

We condense our programs into a short time frame to maximize the amount of material and activities in the short time of study.

SMBS program includes a choir tour that gives a diversity to the program and the IDT program includes in itself two retreats with students that give a break from classroom settings.

If you have a planned event like a wedding during the semester before applying, contact our office to discuss it beforehand to compare calendars.

Who will meet me when I arrive?2019-11-24T09:59:54-05:00

Don’t worry. No matter how you arrive to Jacksonville, we will be sure you know where to go.

For SMBS, TBS and IDT:

  • If you are arriving by airplane, you must email us your itinerary. We do not accept any verbal arrival information. Please make sure that the date, time, airline company and flight number are included. A school representative with an SMBS Ministries sign will greet you at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and take you to your place of lodging. We only provide transportation from JAX airport.
  • If you are arriving by car or any other form of transportation, you need to also notify the administration of your arrival day/time and an address to your lodging will be sent to you.
  • You do not need to stop at school to sign in, you would go straight to your dorm house.
What should I take with me?2023-06-15T14:13:03-04:00

See List of Items to Bring to SMBS.

See List of Items to Bring to TBS.

See List of Items to Bring to IDT.

How early must I arrive prior to the first day of class?2023-05-11T14:02:41-04:00

You must arrive 2-3** days before the first day of class to get settled and adjust to the new time zone. All students must attend program orientation the day before school starts. Orientation will be approximately 3 hours long. Please only arrive up to three** days before the first day unless you have accommodations to live with someone other than the provided dorm house.

**Exact date that the dorms availability and when our arrival team can pick you up will be sent in the acceptance letter.

When does the school semester begin and end?2025-11-03T11:45:41-05:00

SMBS Program

  • The school semester begins on Thursday, January 15, 2026, and ends on Friday, May 22, 2026.
  • Mandatory orientation will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
  • The graduation ceremony will occur on Saturday, May 23, 2026.
  • Students must all attend and participate in the final church service on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

TBS Program

  • The school semester begins on Sunday, June 14 – July 11, 2026.
  • Mandatory orientation will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
  • The graduation ceremony will occur on Saturday, July 11, 2026.

IDT Program

  • The school semester begins Monday, August 18, 2025, and ends Friday, December 5, 2025.
  • The graduation ceremony will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025.
  • Students must all attend and participate in the final church service on Sunday, December 7, 2025.
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