The International Theravāda Buddhist Missionary University(ITBMU) is situated on the Dhammapāla Hill, Mayangone Township, in Yangon, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar. It was inaugurated on 9 December 1998, under Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture. 

Myanmar has carefully preserved Theravāda Buddhism in its pristine form for nearly one thousand years. Now she is sharing her knowledge of Buddhism both in theory and practice with the people of the world to promote their happiness and moral well-being. Those who wish to learn Theravāda Buddhist canonical texts and insight meditation in Myanmar tradition have a golden opportunity to study them from the Myanmar Buddhist scholars of high academic achievements at the same institution. The Myanmar and Pāli languages are included in the academic programmes. The medium of instruction is English.

Objectives

There are eight objectives of the university: 

(a) To share the genuine Theravāda Buddhism (the teachings of Gotama Buddha) with the people of the world.
(b) To study and comprehend the canonical texts of Theravāda Pitaka as approved successively by the six Buddhist Councils.
(c) To abstain from evil deeds and practice good deeds.
(d) To promote the four modes of sublime living (Brahma-vihāra) which would lead to the establishment of peaceful and prosperous world.
(e) To train more missionaries endowed with good morality who are well-versed in Pitaka literature and meditational practices.
(f) To teach and train local and foreign students who are willing to study Theravāda Pitaka in its pristine form.
(g) To collaborate with local and foreign universities, and also to cooperate with other universities that will support the objectives of the university.
(h) To send missionaries to foreign countries for the propagation of Theravāda Buddhism.

How can take the Entrance Examination?

Foreign candidates are required to sit for the written examination at the Embassy of Myanmar in the country of their residence, or at the examination center in Yangon, Myanmar. There will be two question papers, namely, one on English proficiency and the other on general knowledge relevant to Buddhism.

The candidates must sit for personal interview at the Embassy of Myanmar in the country of their residence before joining the University.

Academic Requirements

Anyone regardless of gender, race, religion, and creed, having educational qualifications prescribed by the University, can apply for admission. However, students are required to sit for the entrance examination.

Any application for Diploma in Buddha Dhamma will have to meet the following requirements;

1. The foreign monks, nuns and laymen must have passed at least the Matriculation or equivalent. For the laymen and nuns who are Myanmar citizens must have their first degrees BA or BSc. Myanmar monks must have passed Dhammācariya examination.
2. The candidates need to sit for an entrance examination prescribed by the University.
3. They should have some knowledge of Pāli, Sanskirt, and Theravāda Buddhist Scriptures, fluent in spoken and written English is desirable.

Academic Terms

The first term starts in June and ends in September. The Second term starts in December and end in March.

Vacation

April, May and November.

 

EXPENSE

Tuition, boarding and messing for foreign students will be provided free by the University. Travelling expenses for joining the University will not be borne by the University.

Once a foreign student is admitted to the Diploma course, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture will take care of visa application and its extension.