Jesuit formation is a long road lasting approximately 11 years. The rigorous process is designed to mirror the experiences and life of founder St. Ignatius Loyola.

Novitiate: 2 years

A novice engages in the study of Jesuit history and Jesuit life (including first vows), the making of the full Spiritual Exercises over 30 days, and other “experiments” like insertion among the poor, work in hospitals, going on pilgrimage, and work in a Jesuit-sponsored ministry while living in community with other Jesuits.

Regency: 2 - 3 years

The regent devotes 2-3 years to full-time apostolic ministry with supervision, often in a Jesuit high school, sometimes in a Jesuit university or other Jesuit ministry. He also gains experience for reflection and integration in the next stage, theology.

First Studies: 2 years

Consists of two years of philosophy studies and a year of theology, while living in a Jesuit community at a university.

Theology : 2 - 3 years

Engage in theological studies and supervised ministry leading to the professional degree of Master of Divinity (M.Div.) and in a 4th year study for an advanced master’s degree or further ministerial work. Ordination, for those going on to priesthood, usually takes place after the third year. In contrast to the practice before Vatican Council II, the Jesuit brother now goes through the same stages pursued by a “scholastic” (one headed to priesthood), with minimal adjustment because he won’t be ordained.

Tertianship: 1 year

Last phase of a Jesuit’s (early) formation. It takes place only after several years of full-time ministry. The name comes from the Latin word for “third,” and so this stage is sometimes called “third probation.” The tertian once again makes the 30-day Spiritual Exercises under guidance and often spends time living and working among the poor. After the tertianship period, the Jesuit is called to final vows to the Society of Jesus.