In November, President Shimmyo received a letter from the U.S. Department of Education granting provisional approval of UTS as a participant in the department's student financial assistance programs. This means that the Seminary is eligible to participate in the Federal Direct Student Loan Program, the Federal Family Education Loan Program and the Work-Study Program. According to the provisional status, the Seminary has until March 31st 1999 to submit a reapplication together with a review of the Seminary's operation and administration of the programs during the provisional period.

Previous applications to the Department of Education were unsuccessful as the Seminary was not judged to have proven its financial stability. This approval can therefore be taken as a further indication of the improving financial condition of UTS.

"This will be a big help for U.S. citizens and green card holders," said Admissions Director Hong Yu Kovic. "They have the possibility of having their education fully financed by this program with repayment beginning six months after they graduate."