Blog Interview: Luke Cubis – International Bible Training College (IBTI)

1) Please introduce yourself and your role at IBTI

My name is Luke Cubis and I’m helping out in the business area here at the IBTI.

2) Tell us a little about IBTI

The International Bible Training College (IBTI), based in Burgess Hill, England, is a Pentecostal evangelical Bible college established in 1947. With over 75 years of experience, IBTI has trained thousands of students from around the world for Christian ministry and mission work.

• Courses Offered:
  • Bridging Ministry Placement: A 5–6 week hands-on ministry experience with church partners globally.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Applied Theology: A foundational course running from October to April.
  • Level 5 Diploma in Applied Theology: An advanced course building on the Level 4 Certificate / for people with a ministerial background.
    
• Student Body:
  • While exact numbers vary each year, IBTI has capacity for up to 45 students at any one time.

3) Are the courses full time, part-time or a mixture of both? 

Full-time.

4) How do IBTI students fund their studies? 

Personal savings/sponsors. Theoretically, their studies are 100% subsidised, as we only charge for board and lodging which does carry a cost. But we want anyone who wants to grow in their faith and prepare ministry to be able to do so which is why we do not charge for tuition.

5) Does IBTI take students from overseas? 

Yes, a large proportion of our students are international.

6) What type of ministry is IBTI intended to prepare students for? 

The IBTI training is about helping students build a healthy foundation for all kinds of ministries. Many go into church leadership and missions.

7) When students leave IBTI what kind of ministries / jobs do they go into. 

Generally missional work and church leadership.

8) What is distinctive about what IBTI offers compared with other colleges in the UK and overseas? 

The IBTI stands out as a residential school of ministry with a deeply immersive and practical approach to discipleship. Unlike many academic institutions that focus primarily on theological theory, IBTI integrates hands-on ministry training into every aspect of student life.

Students are not only taught biblical knowledge but are also equipped with real-world tools to disciple others, lead effectively, and serve in diverse ministry contexts. Through initiatives like the Creative Ministry module, students engage weekly in practical outreach, applying biblical principles in meaningful, community-based settings.

Additionally, the Bridging Ministry Placement offers a unique 5–6 week immersive experience with global church partners, where students serve in live ministry environments, receive mentorship, and develop leadership skills tailored to their calling.

This holistic, immersive discipleship model—combining academic study, spiritual formation, and practical ministry—is what makes IBTI a distinctive and transformative place for those called to Christian leadership and mission.

9) Please tell us about the library and other research facilities. 

We have a small library on site and students have access to different subscriptions, magazines etc.

10) Does IBTI offer a distance or on-line learning option. If yes, please tell us more about it.

All enrolled students are required to live on campus during term time.