Applicants should:

1. Be at least 33 years of age but not older than 62 at the time of the beginning of the program.
2. Be a practicing Roman Catholic for five consecutive years or more.
3. Have lived within the Diocese of Sacramento for five consecutive years or more.
4. Have demonstrated leadership abilities either within the parish or community organizations.
5. Be in good physical and mental health.
6. Have sufficient financial and employment stability.
7. For married men: have been married at least five years, have the positive consent of his wife and acceptance of his children, and a well adjusted family life.
8. Be sensitive to the time and needs of his family.
9. Have sufficient time for diaconal formation and ministry.
10. Possess the desire and capacity for growth and continued education to develop skills for ministry.
11. Possess an eagerness for prayer and acceptance of spiritual formation.
12. Be faithful to the traditions/teachings of the Church; be open to the awareness of contemporary expressions in theology.
13. Be willing to make a commitment of talent and time.
14. Possess reading and writing skills in order to participate fully in the academic program.