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This is a deeply personal question. You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Instead, approach it as an inner exploration—guided by study, practice, community, and the advice of qualified teachers.
Even taking the first steps—studying Dharma, observing ethics, practicing renunciation—is beneficial whether or not you ordain.
Look below and check if this is the right path for you.
“The wish to ordain is already a profound spiritual seed.”
— Lama Zopa Rinpoche
Ordaining as a Buddhist monk or nun is a profound commitment to spiritual transformation and service. This page offers step-by-step guidance for those sincerely exploring this path within the FPMT and IMI tradition.
Commit to reading this full page and take notes on what resonates or challenges you most.
“Ordination is about the mind—training the mind in ethics, renunciation, and the path to enlightenment.”
— Lama Zopa Rinpoche
The most important factor in preparing for ordination is your relationship with your spiritual teacher. Your teacher supports your development, evaluates your readiness, and continues to guide you after ordination.
Look for a teacher who:
Nurture a stable relationship with a qualified teacher. If you don’t yet have one, seek guidance from a FPMT center or the IMI.
The final decision to ordain always rests with you.
Before ordination:
We recommend completing courses such as the FPMT’s Discovering Buddhism, Exploring Buddhism, or the Basic Program.
FPMT students requesting ordination must:
Ordination involves renouncing not only personal possessions and relationships, but also the ability to earn money. After ordination, you are not permitted to work for income. This is a serious consideration—especially in the West—where many monastic communities do not provide full financial support.
While some monasteries in India or Nepal offer basic accommodation, food, and education without charge, many Western Dharma centers and communities expect ordained residents to cover their own living expenses. This includes housing, food, travel, health insurance, and other costs.
Additionally, if you plan to live and study in a Tibetan monastery (such as Sera), you’ll need to learn the Tibetan language. Life in these environments requires adaptability, long-term commitment, discipline and strong inner motivation.
Ordaining without a clear financial plan can quickly become destabilizing. It’s important to be realistic and honest with yourself—and to communicate openly with your teacher or IMI.
“Renunciation includes both emotional independence and practical self-sufficiency.”
Review your financial situation carefully. Begin to plan:
Speak to your teacher, Dharma center SPC, or an IMI representative to explore your options.
Before requesting ordination, speak with a senior IMI monk or nun (ordained for 10+ years). If unavailable, contact your FPMT center’s Spiritual Program Coordinator to be connected with a regional IMI representative.
This conversation is essential for clarity and support.
Live simply, study daily, and gradually align your life with monastic values. Begin practicing celibacy, reduce distractions, and spend time with ordained communities when possible.
This prepares both your inner and outer life for the path ahead.
Here’s a list of our ordained communities worldwide for you to reach out to.
Ordination is not symbolic—it’s a lifelong transformation. Many IMI monastics took several years to prepare. There’s no need to rush. Deep preparation brings deep stability.
Set realistic timelines—consider a multi-year path to ordination.
“The wish to ordain is already a profound spiritual seed.” — Lama Zopa Rinpoche
If you feel prepared, you can start the process by discussing your aspiration with your teacher or contacting your FPMT center or the IMI.
Email: office@imisangha.org
Download: IMI Ordination Guidelines (PDF)
“Ordination is not about escape—it’s about stepping fully into a life of service, clarity, and spiritual responsibility.”
— His Holiness the Dalai Lama
