Endorsement Requirements & Holds
Requirements
BYU-Idaho requires all students to have an annual ecclesiastical endorsement from their current bishop. Once the stake president submits the endorsement, it appears on the student's application. This endorsement is also required to complete the application process for BYU-Idaho, whereas BYU-Provo allows endorsements to be submitted later.
- Required for all students on-campus and online students, even if taking fewer than 12 credits.
- PathwayConnect students do not need an endorsement.
- PWOL (Pathway Worldwide Online) students do need an endorsement every spring semester.
Endorsement Holds
An endorsement hold indicates that it is time to renew the endorsement for the next semester. Students can access their endorsement through Student Continuing Endorsement.
- This hold only affects registration for future classes.
- Endorsement is to be renewed annually.
- If access issues arise, students should check if renewal is required, try using a different browser, or contact the Student Honor Office at (208) 496-9300
Multiple endorsement holds many appear on a student's account, as each semester has a separate hold.
Reapplicants
Those reapplying to BYU-Idaho must obtain endorsements from both their bishop and stake president. The need for a new endorsement when starting a new application depends on the timing of the original endorsement; students can check by reopening their application from the status page.
Troubleshooting
First Steps
If you are having trouble with resolving your Ecclesiastical Endorsement hold, try following these steps:
- Check if it's time to renew your endorsement.
- Holds apply in the first semester of your assigned track (campus students) and every spring semester (online students).
- Try a different browser
- Use Student Continuing Endorsement to see your holds.
- Call the Student Honor Office at (208) 496-9300
Interview Scheduling
For interview scheduling, continuing students should refer to the "Submitting Continuing Ecclesiastical Endorsement" section, while new students should follow the "Ecclesiastical Endorsement" instructions in "Applying to BYU-Idaho."
Issues with Ward Records
If an endorsement is sent to the wrong ward, students should work with their ward clerk to transfer their records or contact the Honor Office to ensure the endorsement reaches the correct bishop. If an endorsement request is submitted to the wrong ward, the system will direct it to the ward where the student's records are currently located.
The endorsement process is completed online. If issues arise with ward records:
- Ecclesiastical leaders should resolve them before the student resubmits the endorsement request.
- If problems persist, bishops can contact the Endorsement Clearing Office for further assistance.
Exceptions
LDS students without a nearby bishop can meet with one via Zoom or phone, while non-members may meet with their own ecclesiastical leader. If further assistance is needed, they can call the Honor Office at (208) 496-9300.
Continuing Student Endorsement
CES Transfer Students
Students who previously completed an endorsement for another CES school must obtain a new one for BYU-Idaho, as only BYU-Idaho and BYU-Pathway share the same endorsement. Non-member students must also receive an endorsement from the bishop of the LDS ward where they reside. Missionaries should coordinate with their mission president to complete the process.
Appeals
If a bishop does not provide an endorsement, the student cannot register for classes but may appeal to the stake president.
- A campus bishop must be the one to issue an endorsement, and another bishop cannot substitute.
- Students returning to BYU-Idaho after a break must get new ecclesiastical endorsement.
- Stake presidents are not involved in continuing student endorsements.
Internships
For students engaged in internships, a continuing endorsement is still required. Those who work on Sundays and cannot attend church should discuss their situation with their bishop. Campus students must obtain their endorsement from their campus ward bishop rather than their home bishop.