Application Guidelines

Welcome to Living Water University's application process. This guide provides comprehensive information for students applying to the Applications programs.

Application Types and Fees

Select Your Application Type

Choose the option that best describes your situation. The description below will help you confirm that you've selected the correct application type before proceeding.

  • Transfer Application (2–3 weeks) — $52.00 USD
  • Transfer Application — Rush (about 5 days) — $156.00 USD
  • COS / New Initial I-20 (2–3 weeks) — $520.00 USD
  • COS / New Initial I-20 — Rush (about 5 days) — $624.00 USD
  • Reinstatement Application — $520.00 USD
  • U.S. Citizen Student Application — $52.00 USD
Important: Please note that all application fees are non-refundable under any circumstances. Be sure to choose the correct application type before submitting your payment.

Important Resources to Review

Before Starting Your Application:

We strongly recommend that you review the following important resources before beginning your application process. This will help ensure you have all the necessary information and understand university policies.

Student Acknowledgment: By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the information provided in the Resources & Offices page, including the Official Tuition Refund Policy.

Accessing the Application Form

Application Portal Access:
  • To access the application form, you must log in to the Populi system
  • Use the non-Populi email address that was used to set up your account
  • If you forgot your password, use the "Forgot your username or password?" link on the login page
  • You will receive an email with instructions on how to reset your password
  • Application Form Link: Click here to access

Application Form Fields Explained

First Name: Enter your legal first name (given name) exactly as it appears on your official documents (passport, ID, etc.)
Middle Name: Enter your middle name if you have one. This field is optional. If you don't have a middle name, you may leave it blank.
Last Name: Enter your legal last name (family name/surname) exactly as it appears on your official documents.
Email: Enter a valid email address that you check regularly. This will be used for all official communications from the university.
Confirm Email: Re-enter the same email address to confirm accuracy and prevent typing errors.
Phone: Enter your primary phone number including country code. Use the format: +[country code][number] (e.g., +1-555-123-4567).
Use for text messaging (US/Canada only):
  • This option allows you to receive text message updates from the university
  • Available only for US and Canada phone numbers
  • By selecting this option, you consent to receive text messages including general school updates
  • You can reply STOP anytime to unsubscribe
  • Message rates may apply according to your mobile carrier
  • You will need to verify your phone number by entering a verification code sent via text
Program: Select the program you wish to apply for from the dropdown menu:
  • Bachelor of Theology
  • Bachelor of Christian Counseling
  • Master of Christian Counseling
  • Master of Divinity
Note: The English Proficiency Test is required for Change of Status, New I-20 from abroad, and Reinstatement applications. Transfer students do not need to take this test.
Entrance Term: Select the academic term you wish to begin your studies:
  • 2025-2026: Winter 2026
  • 2025-2026: Spring 2026
Choose the term that best fits your schedule and preparation timeline.
Security Check: Complete the security verification (CAPTCHA) to confirm you are a real person and not an automated system. This helps protect the application system from spam and abuse.
Start Application: Click this button to submit your initial information and proceed to the next steps of the application process.
Important Notes:
  • All fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required and must be completed
  • Ensure all information matches your official documents exactly
  • Double-check your email address - you will need it to access your application and receive updates
  • Keep your phone number current - the university may need to contact you
  • Once you click "Start Application," you will be able to continue filling out additional sections of the application

English Proficiency Test Requirements

Who Should Take This Test?

This English Proficiency Test is required only for students who are:

  • Applying for Change of Status (from another visa to F-1 within the U.S.)
  • Requesting a new I-20 from abroad (students currently outside the U.S.)
  • Students who are trying to do Reinstatement (students currently in the U.S.)

Note: Transfer students from another U.S. school do NOT need to take this test. If you are a transfer student, you can enter "TRANSFER" in the test code field.

English Proficiency Test Fee:

$30.00 USD

The test fee is separate from the application fee and must be paid before taking the test.

Payment Process:
  1. Pay the Test Fee: Complete your payment securely through Stripe using the link below:

    💳 Pay Now via Stripe

  2. Take the Test: After completing your payment, you will receive a link to take the English Proficiency Test.
  3. Receive Your Test Code: After completing the test, you will receive a unique CODE by email.
  4. Enter the Code: Enter this unique code in the application form where it asks for the test code.
Non-Refundable Policy:
  • All application and test fees are non-refundable at any time.
  • Once the test fee is paid, it cannot be refunded under any circumstances, including:
    • Withdrawal from the application process
    • Rejection of the application
    • Failure to complete the test
    • Any other reason
  • Please ensure you are ready to proceed before making any payments

Required Documents

Documents You May Need:
  • Valid government-issued identification (passport, driver's license, etc.)
  • Academic transcripts from previous institutions
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
  • Personal statement or essay (if required for your program)
  • Letters of recommendation (if required)
  • Any other documents specific to your program of interest

Note: Specific document requirements may vary by program. Please check with the admissions office for your specific program requirements.

Application Process

  1. Create/Login to Your Account: Access the Populi portal using your registered email address
  2. Complete the Online Application Form: Fill out all required fields accurately and completely
  3. Pay Required Fees: Pay the application fee. If you are applying for Change of Status, New I-20 from abroad, or Reinstatement, you will also need to pay the English Proficiency Test fee ($30.00 USD) via the Stripe payment link.
  4. Pay and Take the English Proficiency Test (if required):
    • If you are applying for Change of Status, New I-20 from abroad, or Reinstatement, pay the test fee and complete the test
    • After completing the test, you will receive a unique test code by email
    • Enter this code in your application form
    • Transfer students do NOT need to take this test - they can enter "TRANSFER" in the test code field
  5. Submit Required Documentation: Upload all necessary documents through the portal
  6. Wait for Review: The admissions committee will review your complete application
  7. Receive Decision: You will be notified of the admission decision through the portal and email

Important Reminders

  • Ensure all information provided is accurate and truthful
  • Keep a copy of all submitted documents for your records
  • Check your email regularly for updates and communications from the admissions office
  • Allow sufficient time for document processing and test scheduling
  • Contact the admissions office immediately if you encounter any technical issues

Contact Information

Living Water University

Admissions Office

Email: info@livingwater.education

Phone: 213-761-5036

Address: 600 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Access Application Form