Latin American Bible Institute

LABI’s academic focus is razor-sharp: theology and ministerial studies, offered as its sole major. The curriculum blends biblical foundations with practical training in preaching, counseling, and leadership, all taught from a Pentecostal perspective. Recent accreditation strides and grants (like those from the Assemblies of God) signal growing institutional stability. The program emphasizes 'life-on-life' mentorship, with faculty deeply involved in students’ spiritual and intellectual formation. Supervised practicums and cultural competency training round out a hands-on approach to ministry preparation.

With just 78 students, LABI’s community is intensely close-knit. Campus life revolves around spiritual growth and service, with structured events blending study sessions and neighborhood engagement. A standout feature is its focus on elevating Hispanic women in church leadership—a rarity in theological education. Descriptions of 'life-on-life' interactions suggest faculty and students forge lasting bonds, akin to models at larger Bible colleges like Moody or Lancaster. Off-campus, La Puente offers a low-key suburban backdrop, though the institute’s small size means social life likely hinges on tight peer networks and ministry activities.

Graduation rates at LABI lag behind national averages for two-year colleges: IPEDS reports a 24% six-year rate, while other sources cite 33%. These figures reflect the challenges of retaining non-traditional and commuter students common in theological education. Limited data on post-graduate outcomes suggests most alumni enter ministry roles, though the institute’s recent grants aim to bolster career support. The low graduation rate may also stem from the school’s rigorous spiritual demands, which not all students sustain long-term.

Tuition and fees at LABI total $25,150 annually, with room and board adding $9,800. However, nearly all students receive financial aid, including federal grants averaging $6,195 and state/local grants of $7,426. The institute also offers specialized scholarships like the LABI Grant, which provides $2,000-$4,000 over one to three years. A net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator helps families estimate costs, though the sticker price places LABI at the higher end for two-year theological programs.

LABI carves a unique niche as one of the few Pentecostal colleges explicitly championing Hispanic leadership, particularly for women in ministry. Its microscopic size fosters unparalleled faculty access and spiritual mentorship, but the trade-off is limited academic breadth and shaky graduation rates. For students seeking a culturally grounded, hands-on ministry education within the Assemblies of God tradition, LABI offers a rare blend of intimacy and ideological focus—provided they’re prepared for its financial and devotional demands.