CAMBRIDGE MUSLIM COLLEGE IN PARTNERSHIP WITH LISAN OF ARABIC LANGUAGE
A transformative stand-alone classical Arabic language programme offered by Cambridge Muslim College in partnership with Lisan Institute. This programme has been meticulously designed to provide students with an immersive and comprehensive experience in mastering the rich classical Arabic language. The 10-month programme will be held in the magnificent historic Yenikapı Mevlevihanesi, part of the Topkapı Campus of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University, in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Türkiye.
Nestled in the heart of Istanbul, a city where East meets West and tradition harmonizes with modern living, Yenikapi Mevlevihanesi provides the perfect backdrop for this unique language programme. Students will be able to draw inspiration from the rich heritage of the city while engaging in an educational experience that transcends borders.
PROGRAMME OUTCOMES
The objectives of the programme are to:
- build students mastery of the foundational grammatical and morphological principles of classical Arabic language;
- develop students’ ability to engage in conversation, reading, discussion and comprehension of basic Islamic texts in Arabic language;
- equip students with the linguistic and practical skills embedded in the Arabic language that will aid in the articulation and proper application of its principles in their studies of Islamic texts;
- prepare students to engage with rich Islamic scholarly tradition within the context of the authentic sources in the Arabic language.
- offer a culturally immersive learning environment tailored to the needs of students of the Islamic sciences and a close monitoring of students progress to ensure they reach the learning objectives of the programme;
- focus on students’ reading proficiency and translation skills essential for further study at higher levels and/or the pursuit of relevant professional pathways;
- create a learning environment providing opportunity and diversity.
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
The Cambridge Muslim College Arabic Abroad programme is a residential one-year full-time programme, co-developed with and delivered by our partners in Istanbul, Lisan Institute. The year consists of three 12-week terms from September until July. The programme provides our own bespoke curriculum, trips to historical sites, visits with local scholars, and enrichment experiences throughout the year, all designed to ensure our students benefit educationally and culturally from all that Istanbul has to offer.
TEACHING METHODS
The programme is structured to provide students a combination of intensive language study alongside weekly activities for application and enrichment. Students will practice their language skills through structured interactions with teachers and fellow students, as well through videos and exercises provided.
ASSESSMENT
Throughout the year, student will be assessed using different methods aligned with module objectives. This includes grammatical analysis, conversation, reading, and translation. Students must pass all the assessments set by Lisan to receive the final certificate.
PROGRAMME DATES
tbc
TERM DATES & PROGRAMME CONTENT
In term one, students will embark on their journey of learning Arabic by building a strong foundation. They will learn basic Arabic grammar and practice language skills through interactions with people and texts, emphasising the vocabulary and expressions of classical Islamic learning. Learning activities include:
- lessons five days a week;
- two hours of face-to-face learning with our Arabic teachers daily;
- three hours of teacher-led learning and practice using the Lisan of Arabic Language digital learning platform daily;
- a module of practical exercises to help students develop translation skills in common Islamic vocabulary and expressions.
In term two, students will improve their Arabic proficiency by engaging with a variety of texts, contexts, and expressions. They will receive comprehensive guidance in the four language skills and learn how to use them confidently and accurately. By the end of this term, students would have mastered the principles of Arabic grammar, practiced applying them in different settings, and will be able to understand and communicate everyday topics and discuss topics of classical Islamic learning clearly. Learning activities include:
- lessons five days a week;
- three hours of face-to-face learning with our Arabic teachers daily;
- two hours of teacher-led learning and practice using the Lisan of Arabic Language digital learning platform daily;
- a module of practical exercises to help students develop translation skills in common Islamic vocabulary and expressions.
In term three, students will complete their intensive journey in Arabic by now applying their newly developed skills in the context of the Islamic scholarly tradition. They will explore different Islamic cultural contexts and use classical texts as resources to enhance their linguistic competence and confidence. They will focus especially on reading proficiency and learn the basic skills required for translating Islamic texts. In addition, they will be encouraged to participate in discussions, exchange ideas, and build on what they learned in previous terms. Their learning activities include:
- lessons five days a week
- five hours of face-to-face learning with our Arabic teachers daily;
- a module of practical exercises to help students develop translation skills in common Islamic vocabulary and expressions.
The end result of the 10-month course may vary based on the your initial proficiency level. The dedication, effort, and enthusiasm you bring to your language learning journey will be essential factors in achieving this advanced level of proficiency.
Is Arabic Abroad right for me?
The Arabic Abroad programme is designed for individuals seeking a profound understanding of classical Arabic language within an Islamic context. Whether you are a student of our BA (hons) in Islamic studies, a researcher, an educator, or someone with a keen interest in classical Arabic traditional language, texts and Islamic scholarly tradition, the Arabic Abroad programme provides a structured and immersive learning experience. Throughout the program, students will engage with Arabic specialists and benefit from a supportive learning environment.
If you are ready to embark on a transformative journey that deepens your connection to the classical Arabic language and Islamic scholarship, then the Cambridge Muslim College Arabic Abroad is the right choice.
FURTHER INFORMATION
- Separate male & female dormitory accommodation close to the university.
- Two meals per day.
- Spacious shared bedrooms (3-4 students per room is standard in Turkish dorms).
- Range of facilities in the dorms.
- Range of Extracurricular activities.
*See FAQs for more information
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- Hold a minimum of A-level qualification or its equivalent international standard is required for entry. We welcome applicants with diverse educational backgrounds and encourage those with equivalent qualifications to explore the opportunities our course offers.
- Provide two references
- All applications must include two references emailed directly by the referee to admissions@cambridgemuslimcollege.ac.uk by the application deadline. Referee Guidance Notes
- Applicants must be nationals of a country with visa-free travel and access* to Turkey For example: UK (permanent residents), EU, United States, Canada and Australia.
- (*Applicants are responsible for verifying their travel requirements to Turkey).
- Students must demonstrate the ability to commit to the programme full time to qualify.
- The Arabic Abroad Programme is an educational experience requiring full-time commitment. Students are anticipated to participate in daily classes, engage in self-directed study, and actively participate in extracurricular activities to deepen and solidify their understanding. It is not suitable for those who have any work or other full-time commitments.
- £12,000 for the 10-month programme.
- If successful, external students must confirm their place on the programme with a one-off non-refundable deposit of £1,000. As per Terms & Conditions, there is a cooling off period of 14 days.
What do the fees cover?
- Tuition fee for one year in Istanbul.
- Accommodation (separate for men and women).
- Two meals per day.
- Student Resident Permit.
- Health Insurance.
- All learning and study materials (Students must bring their own laptops).
- Extracurricular excursions.
- One economy round-trip return ticket from the UK.
- Standard economy luggage allowance.
Students will be responsible for:
- Bringing their own laptops for their study.
- Their own spending money.
- Booking extra luggage.
- Excess luggage fees.
- Extra flights home during the holiday periods.
We’re currently not taking applications for this programme.
Unfortunately, the College is unable to provide any financial assistance to Arabic Abroad students.
Once committed to the course, students can pay for their fees in one-lump sum, or over three equal instalments, paid termly. Before accepting termly settlements, we will assess the student’s financial status. For further details please refer to the scholarship and bursaries section on the programme page.
- Tuition fee for one year in Istanbul.
- Accommodation (separate for men and women)
- Two meals per day
- Turkish education visa
- All learning and study materials
- One economy round-trip return ticket from the UK
Students will be responsible for their own spending money and any extra flights home during the holiday periods.
If successful, external students must confirm their place on the programme with a one-off non-refundable deposit of £1,000. As per Terms & Conditions, there is a cooling off period of 14 days.
For students on our BA in Islamic Studies, deposit instructions are displayed under ‘Fees & Finance’ on the programme page
Once committed to the course, students can pay for their fees in one-lump sum, or over three equal instalments, paid termly. Before accepting termly settlements, we will assess the student’s financial status.
What is dormitory accommodation?
Student Dormitories in Turkey
Student dormitories are the typical form of accommodation in Turkey and offer a unique vibrant living experience for UK students pursuing their studies abroad. These dorms provide a comfortable and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of community among residents.
Typically equipped with modern amenities, shared spaces, and recreational facilities, they offer a balance between academic focus and social engagement. Living in a Turkish student dormitory not only ensures proximity to educational institutions but also allows students to immerse themselves in the local culture and build lasting connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Dormitories are separated by gender and are often multi occupancy rooms (double, triple or quadruple rooms). All housing facilities are furnished and equipped with basic necessities. Students will be advised if they need to bring their own towels, pillowcases, sheets and duvet covers.
Example dormitory facilities*
* Please note the pictures above are purely for illustration purposes. The location and facilities of the dormitories may vary and are subject to updates. While we are committed to offering the finest accommodations, we may make changes to certain aspects of our student dorms to improve your experience.
When and how will I travel?
Arabic Abroad fees include one economy round-trip return ticket from the UK to Istanbul at the start and end of the programme. Cambridge Muslim College will book tickets for all students to travel together on the same date from one central airport.
Students will be responsible for their own any extra flights home during the holiday periods.
N.B. Students must not leave Turkey until they have received their student residence permit, see below for more information.
What is student residence permit (SRP) in Turkey and how do I get it?
- Students enrolled in an academic program for 3 months or longer in Turkey must obtain a student residence permit, this gives them the right to stay in Turkey during their course.
- Students need to apply for the SRP within a month of their arrival in Turkey.
- Students are required to have health insurance during their residence.
For peace of mind, Lisan will assist students in making an online residence permit application, arrange appointments, provide all the necessary supporting documentation and standard health insurance for Arabic Abroad students.
N.B. Students cannot leave Turkey before obtaining the residence permit document.
Students’ passports must be valid at least two years to ensure they can get an SRP.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
We strongly recommend that anyone travelling to Turkey obtains travel insurance. Once you have applied for your SRP it can take up to 3 months to be issued therefore, please obtain relevant cover.
What if I have additional medical needs?
Please ensure you enter details of any medical needs in your application form and or email admissions department to advise. You may need to purchase addition health insurance that is not covered by a standard policy at your own cost. Lisan Institute will advise you on this.
How much money do I need to take with me?
The amount of money you need can vary depending on your needs. Most students use online banks like Wise, Monzo and Revolut as paying by card is widely accepted. Please follow guidance from Lisan (and your student handbook) and take care when using ATMs.
Once you receive your SRP it is recommended that you open a local bank account.
Can I travel back to UK during the Arabic Abroad programme?
Once you receive your SRP, you are free to travel home in the holidays. However, please note Arabic Abroad is an intensive 10-month course, it includes enrichment activities and extra-curricular excursions. Please ensure you are up to date with your work and practice before making any travel plans.
Can my family travel with me or visit me?
Your family are free to travel with you when you go to Istanbul however, they will have to make their own travel and accommodation arrangements. We will book flight for all the Arabic Abroad Students to travel together, this is a great chance for students to get to know and support each other.
If you have any other questions or concerns, please contact admissions@cambridgemuslimcollege.ac.uk
We are currently not taking applications for this programme.
Any questions? Get in touch by email: admissions@cambridgemuslimcollege.ac.uk
