Top 10 Islamic Universities in the World & How to Get Admission

๐ŸŒ Top 10 Islamic Universities in the World & How to Apply

Looking for the best Islamic universities in the world? Here’s your complete guide to the top 10 institutions — from Cairo’s Al-Azhar to Malaysia’s IIUM — including admission steps, scholarships, and insider tips.


1. Al-Azhar University – Egypt



Founded: 970 CE | Location: Cairo, Egypt
One of the world’s oldest and most respected Islamic universities. Offers Qur’anic sciences, Hadith, Fiqh, Arabic linguistics, and modern courses.

Admissions: Apply via Egypt’s Ministry of Higher Education or directly at Al-Azhar. Arabic proficiency is a must; some programs require entrance exams.


2. International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) – Malaysia



Founded: 1983 | Location: Gombak, Malaysia
A multicultural hub with students from over 100 countries. Offers courses in law, economics, engineering, and Islamic studies.

Admissions: Apply online. Proof of English (IELTS/TOEFL) or Arabic proficiency required.


3. Islamic University of Madinah – Saudi Arabia



Founded: 1961 | Location: Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Specializes in Shariah, Quran, and Dawah. Famous for fully funded scholarships for international students.

Admissions: Apply online, submit Arabic documents and two Islamic scholar recommendations.


4. Umm Al-Qura University – Saudi Arabia



Founded: 1949 | Location: Makkah, Saudi Arabia
Offers Islamic studies alongside medicine, engineering, and business. Located near Masjid al-Haram.

Admissions: Apply via Saudi Study Portal. Arabic fluency required for Shariah courses.


5. Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) – Qatar



Founded: 2010 | Location: Doha, Qatar
Renowned for Islamic finance, governance, and modern Islamic thought.

Admissions: Apply online with transcripts, SOP, and proof of English/Arabic proficiency.


6. Al-Mustafa International University – Iran

Founded: 2007 | Location: Qom, Iran
Leading Shia Islamic institution focusing on theology, philosophy, and interfaith dialogue.

Admissions: Apply via official portal. Arabic or Persian proficiency is required.


7. University of Jordan – Faculty of Sharia – Jordan



Founded: 1962 | Location: Amman, Jordan
Specializes in Islamic banking, jurisprudence, and comparative law.

Admissions: Apply online. Submit Arabic language proof and academic records.


8. Qatar University – Qatar



Founded: 1973 | Location: Doha, Qatar
Blends traditional scholarship with research in Islamic finance, education, and history.

Admissions: Apply via QU portal. Submit transcripts, proficiency certificates, and personal statement.


9. Kuwait University – Kuwait



Founded: 1966 | Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait
Offers Islamic law, Quranic sciences, and history with a focus on policy integration.

Admissions: Apply online. Arabic fluency required for Shariah courses.


10. University of Malaya – Malaysia



Founded: 1905 | Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Academy of Islamic Studies offers Islamic civilization, law, and education.

Admissions: Apply via UM portal. Submit transcripts, SOP, and proficiency proof.


๐Ÿ“Œ Expert Admission Tips

  • Apply early — deadlines differ by country.

  • Learn Arabic for religious studies; English for modern subjects.

  • Prepare recommendation letters in advance.

  • Explore scholarship options on official websites.

  • Avoid unverified agents; use direct portals.


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