Exploring Buddhism FAQ

Year 2

What are the requirements for receiving an Exploring Buddhism certification?

To earn an FPMT Completion Certificate for Exploring Buddhism, students must complete all eight Exploring Buddhism (EB) modules. Each module includes the following components:


  1. Attendance
    • Attend all teaching sessions for each module.
    • At least 80% of sessions should be attended live (in-person or online).
      • For example: in a 12‑session module such as Exploring the View, Tenets and the Middle Way, students should attend at least 10 sessions live.
    • Any missed sessions must be made up by watching the provided video recordings.
  2. Practice
    • Participate in both practice sessions for each module; at least one should be attended live (in-person or online).
    • Participate in all three study group sessions for each module.
  3. Assessment
    • Complete the end-of-module assessments provided by Geshe Legtsok. These assessments are based on the materials covered in class.

Am I required to take the certification path to attend the Exploring Buddhism program?

No. While we warmly encourage students to consider the certification path — many find its structure supportive for both study and spiritual growth — it is not required. We understand that a three-year commitment may not be feasible for everyone. To accommodate diverse needs, registration is available on a module-by-module basis, offering flexibility and accessibility.

How do I attend a study group?

Study group sessions are an essential part of the EB program, providing an opportunity to review key concepts from recent lessons and engage in meaningful discussions. Led by volunteer Teaching Assistants (TAs), these sessions are interactive and collaborative, encouraging students to recall, analyze, and relate the material to their own experiences.

Please note:


  • Study group sessions are not recorded.
  • In Year 2, each module includes three online study group sessions, held after the 4th, 7th, and 10th teaching sessions.

Study Group Schedule:


  • Thursdays: 7:00pm–8:30pm (Pacific Time)
  • Sundays: 4:00pm–5:30pm (Pacific Time)

TAs review the same material in both sessions. You are welcome to attend on either Thursday or Sunday — whichever works best for your schedule.

Have more questions?

If you have additional questions about the program, please submit them here. We will continue updating the FAQ section with clarifications.