The report provides an overview of the academic preparation of a sample of prospective candidates for the ministry. Data were drawn from the records of approximately 12,000 students taking the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) from 1981-1988. It was found that during this period, 1,000-1,500 applicants to Masters of Divinity programs took the GRE each year, and about 28 percent were women. Women applicants earned higher GRE scores than men, and their undergraduate grades were higher. In 1988, half the women and one-third of the men were over age 30. Seminary applicants who majored in religion or theology as undergraduates earned lower average GRE scores than applicants who majored in other areas. One-fourth of the sample received honors or recognition for community service while in college. Half the women and 36 percent of the men indicated that their enrollment would depend on receiving financial aid. A list of institutions receiving GRE scores, by denomination, is appended. (Contains 15 references.) (Author/MSE)