Suppose you’re a Nigerian student dreaming of studying Islam at one of the most prestigious universities in the Muslim world. In that case, the Islamic University of Madinah (IUM) in Saudi Arabia offers a golden opportunity — a fully funded scholarship that covers your tuition, accommodation, and even monthly expenses.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the IUM scholarships for Nigerians — from eligibility and application to travel and life in Madinah.
What is the Islamic University of Madinah?
Located in the holy city of Madinah, IUM was founded in 1961 with a mission to educate Muslim students from around the world in Islamic sciences, Arabic language, Shariah, and related fields. Over the years, it has attracted thousands of students from different countries, with Nigeria being one of the top African contributors.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The IUM scholarship is one of the most generous in the world for Islamic studies. Here’s what’s included:
- Full tuition coverage
- Free accommodation on campus
- Three free meals daily
- Monthly stipend (~840 SAR)
- Free health care
- Annual return ticket to Nigeria
- Free books and materials
All of this allows Nigerian students to focus entirely on their studies and Islamic growth without worrying about finances.
Eligibility Criteria for Nigerian Applicants
To qualify for the scholarship, Nigerian applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be male and Muslim (currently, IUM accepts only male students).
- Be between 17 and 25 years old.
- Have completed high school (WAEC/NECO).
- Be physically and mentally fit.
- Have a good understanding of Arabic (though not always mandatory, it’s a big plus).
- Be of good character and practising Muslim.
Documents Required
Applicants from Nigeria will typically need to provide
- WAEC/NECO certificate (translated into Arabic and certified)
- Birth certificate
- International passport
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Medical report
- Character reference letter from an Islamic organisation
- Recommendation letter
- Statement of purpose (written in Arabic if possible)
Tip: All documents must be translated into Arabic and authenticated by relevant bodies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Embassy in Nigeria.
Application Process for Nigerians
Applying from Nigeria is done entirely online via the IUM Admissions Portal.
Step-by-step:
- Visit the portal and create an account.
- Upload scanned and translated copies of all required documents.
- Fill in personal details and educational background.
- Submit and wait — applications are usually reviewed within a few months.
- If accepted, you’ll receive an admission letter and visa processing instructions.
Applications are open year-round, but it’s best to apply before March each year for priority processing.
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Life in Madinah as a Nigerian Student
Many Nigerian students currently study at IUM, and there’s a strong, supportive community. Most students stay in on-campus dorms, eat at university cafeterias, and attend daily prayers and Islamic lectures.
Expect a strict but spiritually enriching environment — classes are in Arabic, and Islamic discipline is part of daily life.
FAQs
Do I need to speak Arabic before applying?
Not necessarily. If accepted, you might be enrolled in a two-year Arabic preparatory course before beginning your major.
Can I apply without a passport?
No. A valid international passport is required for the online application.
Is there a scholarship for female Nigerians?
Currently, IUM only admits male students. However, female scholarships may be available at other Islamic institutions in Saudi Arabia or Egypt.
The Islamic University of Madinah offers Nigerian students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain Islamic knowledge in the holy city of the Prophet ﷺ — all expenses paid. If you meet the criteria, take the step, prepare your documents, and apply with sincerity.
