Study Abroad with Financial Support That Aligns with Your Values
For Muslim students seeking higher education abroad, financial concerns are often coupled with a desire to find faith-friendly environments, halal living options, and scholarship programs that respect cultural and religious values. Fortunately, several governments, universities, and Islamic organizations offer Muslim-friendly scholarships that not only cover academic costs but also provide a supportive environment for Muslim students.
This guide outlines the top scholarships for Muslim international students in 2025, many of which are fully funded and tailored to support students from Muslim-majority regions or those who identify with Islamic values.
What Makes a Scholarship Muslim-Friendly?
- Scholarships offered by Muslim-majority countries or Islamic foundations
- Programs at universities with Islamic student associations or halal facilities
- Support for students from OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation) member states
- Consideration of cultural sensitivities and family circumstances
- Emphasis on development, peace, education, and leadership
Best Muslim-Friendly Scholarships for International Students (2025)
1. Türkiye Burslari Scholarship – Turkey
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, Turkish language course, airfare
- Eligibility: Open to all nationalities, with strong outreach to Muslim-majority countries
- Deadline: January–February 2025
- Website: turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
One of the most inclusive and well-supported scholarships for Muslim students. Offers a fully Islamic-friendly learning and living environment.
2. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and Postdoc
- Coverage: Tuition, living stipend, travel, health, and thesis support
- Eligibility: Citizens of IsDB member countries or Muslim communities in non-member countries
- Fields: STEM, health, education, agriculture, development
- Deadline: Typically January–March
- Website: isdb.org/scholarships
One of the most prestigious Muslim-world-focused scholarship programs with a strong development mission.
3. Qatar University Scholarships
- Level: Undergraduate & Postgraduate
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation
- Eligibility: International students, especially from Muslim regions
- Environment: Halal dining, prayer facilities, modest dress-friendly
- Website: qu.edu.qa
A public university in the Gulf region with a strong academic reputation and Islamic learning environment.
4. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Fellowship – Saudi Arabia
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Coverage: Full tuition, generous monthly stipend, housing, medical insurance, relocation support
- Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
- Note: World-class research facilities within an Islamic culture
- Website: kaust.edu.sa
Ideal for science and engineering students seeking high-tech education within a Muslim-majority country.
5. Al-Azhar University Scholarships – Egypt
- Level: Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, Theology
- Coverage: Tuition-free or subsidized housing, some government-funded support
- Eligibility: Muslim students worldwide
- Website: azhar.eg
One of the oldest and most respected Islamic institutions. Best suited for those pursuing Shariah, Arabic, or Islamic sciences.
6. OIC Educational Exchange Programme
- Offered by: Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)
- Level: Master’s & PhD
- Coverage: Varies by member country
- Eligibility: Citizens of OIC countries
- Note: Includes science, economics, engineering, and education
- Website: icydc.org
Often announced through member state ministries and diplomatic missions.
7. Al Qasimi Foundation Scholarships – UAE
- Level: Master’s and Doctoral research
- Coverage: Monthly living stipend, accommodation, research funds, airfare
- Focus: Social development, education, Islamic studies
- Eligibility: Muslim-majority country citizens preferred
- Website: alqasimifoundation.com
Excellent for research on Islamic education, policy, or social change in the Muslim world.
How to Apply for Muslim-Friendly Scholarships
Identify whether the scholarship prioritizes:
Muslim-majority countries
Islamic values or research
OIC membership
Prepare your documents:
Passport
Academic transcripts
Personal statement (mention your background if relevant)
Proof of English or Arabic (where required)
Submit on time (many deadlines fall between December 2024 – March 2025)
Emphasize service, leadership, and community goals in your application
Final Thoughts
There are more scholarship options for Muslim students today than ever before. Whether you’re seeking to study engineering in Turkey, Islamic studies in Egypt, or biotechnology in Saudi Arabia, you can find a program that supports both your academic and cultural journey.
Ready to begin your scholarship application journey? Visit ApplyScholarshipHub.com for more detailed guides, application templates, and personalized assistance with your scholarship applications.
