FAQ

Question 1

What is YWAM?

Accepted Answer

Youth With A Mission (YWAM) is a global, interdenominational Christian missionary organisation founded in 1960. With over 18,000 full-time volunteers in more than 180 countries, YWAM exists to know God and to make Him known. It is one of the largest missionary movements in history.

Question 2

What is a DTS?

Accepted Answer

A Discipleship Training School (DTS) is YWAM's foundational training program. It runs for approximately 6 months: 3 months of lecture phase (held at our Wollongong base) and 3 months of outreach phase (serving cross-culturally in another nation or context). No prior theological training is required — just an open heart and a willingness to grow.

Question 3

Do I need to be a Christian to apply?

Accepted Answer

Our DTS is designed for people who have a personal faith in Jesus Christ and a desire to grow in that relationship. If you're still exploring faith and have questions, we encourage you to get in touch with us directly to chat about where you're at.

Question 4

What age range is the DTS for?

Accepted Answer

The DTS is open to people 18 years and older. There is no upper age limit — we have welcomed students from their late teens all the way into their 50s and beyond. What matters is a sincere desire to grow, learn, and serve.

Question 5

How much does a DTS cost?

Accepted Answer

School fees cover accommodation, meals, and tuition during the lecture phase. Outreach costs are additional and vary by destination. We encourage all students to fundraise support from their home community — this is itself a meaningful part of the DTS journey. Contact us for a current fees breakdown.

Question 6

Where do outreach teams go?

Accepted Answer

Outreach destinations vary from school to school. Past teams have served in South-East Asia, the Pacific Islands, Africa, South Asia, and beyond. Teams engage in a wide range of ministry — from evangelism and church support to community development and children's ministry.

Question 7

What is the School of Strategic Missions (SOSM)?

Accepted Answer

The SOSM is an advanced school for those who have already completed a YWAM DTS. It focuses on strategic missiology, cross-cultural communication, and pioneer thinking. It is designed for people who want to go deeper in their understanding of mission and their role in it.

Question 8

Can I get academic credit for my DTS?

Accepted Answer

Yes. YWAM Wollongong operates as YWAM Training (RTO 0449), a Registered Training Organisation. Our programs may be eligible for credit transfer or recognition of prior learning within the Australian vocational education system. We are also connected to the YWAM University of the Nations network.

Question 9

Is accommodation provided?

Accepted Answer

Yes, accommodation is provided at the base during the lecture phase of your school. The YWAM Wollongong base provides communal living arrangements — shared rooms, shared meals, and shared life. Community living is a core part of the training experience.

Question 10

What about visa requirements for international students?

Accepted Answer

International students will need an appropriate Australian visa to attend. Most students attend on a tourist or student visa. We strongly recommend contacting us early in the application process so we can advise on the best visa pathway for your situation and provide the documentation you need.

Question 11

I can't make the September intake. Are there other DTS dates?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we run more than one DTS a year, with intakes starting in September 2026 and January 2027. If neither of those fits your timing, get in touch and we'll let you know what's coming up next and help you plan ahead.

Question 12

I'm not sure I'm ready. Can I just talk to someone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. You don't need to have it all figured out before you reach out. Send us a message or give us a call and we'll have a relaxed, no-pressure chat about where you're at and whether the DTS is a good next step for you.

Question 13

How do I apply?

Accepted Answer

The best first step is to fill out our contact form or reach out to our office directly. We'll send you an application form and walk you through the rest of the process. Applications are open and we'd love to hear from you.