In the Name of Allaah, the All-Merciful, the Ever-Merciful...
OVERVIEW UPDATED 1425-8-11
Located in the most virtuous of cities, Umm al-Qura University in Makkah offers a chance for non-Arabic speakers, male or female, to learn Arabic within a two-year intensive program. Upon completing the initial studies in the Arabic Language Institute with excellent grades (80% average or higher), the student earns the opportunity to take an entrance exam apply to study in one of the colleges of Umm Al-Qura University. If students do not qualify, the 'Arabic Institute provides a chance for them to broaden their studies in 'Arabic, specializing in teaching 'Arabic with a two-year and four-year program.
REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION UPDATED 1425-8-11
To be considered for admission at Umm al-Qura University, applicants should be 25 years old or younger with a high school diploma and generally good grades (80% or higher). Their application must include photographs, copies of passport, birth and health certificates, high school transcripts and a copy of the diploma, all verified by the Saudi Embassy of their country. Also - letters of recommendation from known Islamic organizations or personalities, a 75-word essay about their goals for studying Arabic, and female applicants must present proof of a male family member currently living in Makkah, if they are not applying along with their spouse or brother.
New Condition: All applicants to Umm al-Qura University's Arabic Program must first be approved by their own country's "Ministry of Education". Enquiries about this should be directed to the Saudi Embassy of the applicant's country. Applications are no longer being accepted at the university itself in Makkah. All applicants must apply through the Saudi Embassy in their country. Additionally, further conditions may apply as stipulated by the Saudi Embassy in the applicant's country. So for the most accurate and up-to-date information about what is required for one's application, applicants should contact the nearest Saudi Embassy in their country.
UPDATE: It seems most applicants from many countries are being exempted from this, at least for the submission of the application. Applications are being submitted once again at the university for all countries. [1427-01-02]
ESTIMATED COSTS AND LIVING EXPENSES
Tuition is free. The school provides the students with a monthly salary of SR 840 (about $225), a round-trip plane ticket yearly, discounted meals, and free housing (for single students only). A single student should bring at least $500 initially to cover expenses until the salary starts to come (it takes a few months usually). After that, the monthly salary is sufficient for single students living in the dormitory. Married students who have children should bring much more money initially and expect their living expenses to be $6,000 to $12,000 yearly, depending on their standard of living, number of children, etc.
TIPS FROM FORMER OR CURRENT STUDENTS
"The school reviews applications in the winter between semesters. Usually the selected students would begin their studies in the Spring semester of the following year. They usually can only accept two or three new American and British students each year, so don't depend greatly on being accepted. What I mean is - Submit your application and continue on with your life."
APPLICATION UPDATED 1425-8-11
We now have
an application to Umm Al-Qura right here on bakkah.net! You may print it, fill it out, and get in touch with the Saudi Embassy of your country to make sure you have all the requirements needed.
CONTACT INFORMATION
You can try to e-mail, phone, or fax them, but be patient:
Phone / fax: (011 from U.S.) 966 2 556 2525
E-mail:
[email protected]
Or you may contact a student currently enrolled at the university, using one of the following emails:
Regarding the Arabic Language Institute:
MEN: [email protected]
WOMEN: [email protected]
Regarding the Islamic colleges (BA level):
MEN: [email protected]
WOMEN: [email protected]
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Bakkah.net provides information about studying at Umm al-Qura and other universities, however Bakkah.net is not affiliated with any of the universities or their administrations.
TEST YOUR UNDERSTANDING
What must students accomplish in the Arabic Program in order to be eligible to study in one of the colleges?
If they do not qualify, what is available to them?
How many American applicants does Umm Al-Qura University usually accept per year?
How much money would a married student need to live in Makkah for one school year?
RELATED ARTICLES
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying at Umm Al-Qura University
About The 'Arabic Language Program at Umm Al-Qura University (EL)
Important Advice for Potential Overseas Students: What You Must Know Before You Go
