Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I get INSTE started in my Church?
INSTE partners with your church to make disciples and develop leaders. A person in your church will need to take the Distance Leader Training (DLT) program to become certified as a group leader. This is accomplished locally, on the leaders own schedule. Contact us for more information or simply go to the Resources tab and click on 'Distance Leader Training Forms' and then follow the directions.

If I fail a course, can I go on to the next one?
Yes, you may go on to the next course, but if you want a certificate or a diploma, you will need to retake the course in order to graduate.

Is INSTE accredited?
Yes! We are accredited through DETC. In January 2008 INSTE became part of the Distance Education and Training Council, the global leader in distance learning accreditation.

What if our leader can no longer lead our group? Can one of the students continue the group by taking over the leadership?
Yes, but first that student will need to take Distance Leader Training (DLT) to become certified. However, if another person in the church has been certified as a leader, he/she may assume leadership of the group.

How long will it take to get my order?
It depends on where you live. It takes 3-5 business days for your order to arrive via U.S. mail. It takes 2-3 days to process the order and then additional 3 to 6 business days to ship it to you. However, if you fax the order to us-with a credit card number-we'll be able to get it to you sooner.

If I am a Pastor and want to lead a group, do I still have be certified as a group leader?
Yes, because we want to make sure that all group leaders understand the methodology and ministry philosophy of INSTE.

May I be a group leader and a student at the same time?
Yes, you may be a student and a leader at the same time. When you submit the Book Order Form , send your application/enrollment and all student fees, along with applications and fees of rest of the students in your group.

May I order a complete set of books?
Only a group leader may order a complete set of books. You may order a complete set of Certificate Program (Level 1) books (four books) at a discount when you enroll in Distance Leader Training (DLT).

If classes have already started, can someone join the group?
Yes, as long as not more than 2 weeks have passed. A student cannot miss more than one-fourth of the group meetings. In the Diploma/Degree Program (Level Two), no one may join a group after the first lesson.

Can a group have two certified leaders?
Yes, in fact, we feel this is an excellent opportunity for you to mentor someone as a group leader. Having two leaders in a group also enhances group dynamics and provides continuity if it is necessary for one of the two to be absent.

Can I purchase a set of books for my own personal study and reference?
No. INSTE is designed for use in small groups for the purpose of fostering relationships and accountability; therefore, we do not sell books for personal reference.

Do you take orders over the phone?
No. At the present time we do not have the technology available to record phone calls. For accounting purposes we need a paper trail to verify all orders.

If I have already been certified as a leader in the past, do I need to take the training again?
Yes, INSTE is constantly updating policies and procedures. If you have not led for more than a year or it has been more than two years since your last certification, you need to take the training again. Refer to the Distance Leader Training Forms page (under the "Resources" tab) for more information.

How do I get a transcript?
Under the "Resources" tab click on "Level One Forms". Find the "Transcript Request Form" pdf and print it, fill it out, and send it to the INSTE office. Enclose $5.00 for shipping and handling.

What denominations are using INSTE?
At present many different denominations are enrolled in INSTE including Assemblies of God, Church of God-Cleveland, Church of God-Anderson, Foursquare Churches, Methodist, Open Bible, Amor Viviente, plus many independent churches.

Do you accept transfer credit from other institutions?
All students are required to take Discipleship 1. Those who have studied courses equivalent to the other Certificate Program (Level 1) courses in an accredited institution may request transfer credit. Check with the INSTE office about requirements and procedures. In the Diploma/Degree Program (Level 2) students are required to complete Church Leadership and a minimum of 32 credit hours with INSTE.

What percentage of the weekly score and finals make up the total grade?
For Level 1, your weekly exams are 20% and the final is 80% of the total grade. In Level 2 the weekly exams are 40% and the final is 60% of the total grade.

What English translation of the Bible does INSTE use?
We use the NIV (1984 edition) which is no longer in print. This version was originally chosen because of its readability. When studying for your memory verses please refer to the verses in the back of the textbook. You can also access the NIV (1984 edition) for free on several websites such as http://www.biblegateway.com/ or www.youversion.com.

• Are my student records protected by INSTE?
• Yes, the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects students' rights with respect to their education records. Please see page 20 of our catalog for more information.
•  
• Do my credits from INSTE transfer to other colleges or universities?
• Although INSTE is accredited by DETC and many colleges and universities accept our credits, the transfer of academic credits to any institution is determined by the receiving institution. The student who plans to transfer INSTE credits is advised to check with the receiving institution.