There are two types of Muslim scholarships: those for students who are studying overseas, and those intended for students studying in the U.S. For example, the Qatar Scholarship Program is available to students who wish to study at Qatar University in Doha.(See the Resources section for more details.) On the other hand, the Islamic Scholarship Fund is open only to students studying in the U.S.
Some Muslim scholarships are state-specific. For example, the American Muslim Women's Association awards $1,000 scholarships to students who are Arizona residents. The Dr. Mohammad Riyaz Ahmed Scholarship Fund is available to Muslim students in the Portland, Ore., area. The Islamic Center of Minnesota Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to Muslim students in Minnesota.
Scholarships for Muslim students range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. You can apply for as many scholarships as you are qualified.
Many Muslim scholarships require students fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (also known as a FAFSA form) so that the foundation awarding the scholarship can ascertain each student's needs. This form should be filled out yearly. Additionally, most scholarships require that students be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Muslim scholarships are beneficial to students who need financial assistance with schools. They also benefit the schools students choose to attend. Finally, Muslim scholarships benefit the communities in which Muslims and other underrepresented groups work. Some Muslim scholarships give preference to Muslim students who have volunteered with other Muslims or play a significant role in their communities.