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Help & Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about studying at Al Andaluse.

Admissions

Do I need prior knowledge of Arabic to apply?
No. We welcome applicants at all levels, including complete beginners. Our placement assessment ensures you are placed in the correct level group regardless of prior experience.
How long does the admissions process take?
From submission of a complete application, you can expect to receive a decision within five business days. The full process — from application to enrollment confirmation — typically takes 2–3 weeks.
Can I defer my enrollment to a later term?
Yes. Enrolled students may defer to a later term once without penalty, subject to availability. Contact the admissions office before the deadline printed on your offer letter.
Do you accept applications from non-Muslim students?
Absolutely. Al Andaluse welcomes students of all faiths and none. Our admissions criteria focus on motivation to learn Arabic and academic readiness — not religious affiliation.
Is the application fee refundable?
The €75 application fee is non-refundable. However, if you are unsuccessful in your application, the fee will be credited toward a future application submitted within 24 months.

Academic Programs

What is the difference between Classical and Modern Standard Arabic?
Classical Arabic is the language of the Qur'an and the medieval Islamic scholarly tradition. Modern Standard Arabic is the standardised formal register used today for news, official communication, and academia. They share the same grammar system but differ in vocabulary, register, and typical use contexts.
Can I study both Classical and Modern Standard Arabic simultaneously?
We recommend focusing on one track per term — this is the foundation of our methodology. However, students enrolled in one track may attend supplementary sessions from the other track during the final four weeks of term, subject to faculty approval.
How are students assessed and moved between levels?
Written and oral assessments are conducted at the end of each term. Students who demonstrate mastery are advanced to the next level. We also conduct a mid-term check at week five to identify students who may benefit from adjustment.
Will my credits from Al Andaluse be recognised by my home university?
Al Andaluse has formal credit-transfer agreements with many partner universities. If your institution is not listed among our formal partners, we recommend contacting your registrar before enrollment. We can provide detailed academic transcripts and course syllabi to support credit recognition requests.
Are there programs available during Ramadan?
Yes. Al Andaluse operates year-round and adjusts the schedule appropriately during Ramadan, with modified class times to accommodate fasting students. This is specified in each term's academic calendar.

Online Learning

Can I learn Moroccan Arabic online?
Yes! Al Andaluse offers a comprehensive Moroccan Arabic course online taught by native-speaking instructors. The course focuses on conversational fluency for practical communication, covering topics like introducing yourself, food, daily life, and practical life skills.
How is online learning different from onsite programs?
Online programs offer flexibility in scheduling and location while maintaining the same academic standards and faculty expertise. Classes are live and interactive with small groups (4–8 students), supplemented with self-paced modules and recorded sessions for review.
What timezone accommodations are available?
We offer flexible scheduling for online classes to accommodate students across different timezones. One-to-one online tutoring can be scheduled at times that suit your availability. Contact admissions for specific scheduling options.
Can online credits be transferred to onsite programs?
Yes. Completion certificates from online programmes are issued on the same basis as onsite certificates. Students who later join an onsite programme can transfer online credits directly.

Clubs & Activities

What clubs and activities are available to students?
Al Andaluse offers several student clubs including the Cooking Club (Moroccan cuisine), Music Club (Arabic music history), Modern Arabic Literature Club, and Arabic for the Workplace. These are optional, free to enrolled students, and meet regularly throughout the term.
Do I need a high language level to join clubs?
Different clubs have different language level requirements. Some clubs, like Cooking Club, are accessible to intermediate students, while Literature Club targets Intermediate-High and Advanced students. Check with student services to find clubs suited for your level.
How much do clubs cost?
Student clubs are free and included in your enrollment. Participation is voluntary.

Internships & Professional Opportunities

Can I do an internship during my studies?
Yes. Al Andaluse offers full-time summer and semester internships with guaranteed placement in your field of choice. Internships provide hands-on work experience while allowing you to practice Arabic in professional contexts.
What fields offer internship placements?
Internships are available in diverse fields including media & journalism, education, business, marketing, IT, social media, diplomacy, international relations, tourism, human rights, development, and many others.
Are internships paid?
Most Al Andaluse-arranged internships are unpaid volunteer positions, though they provide invaluable professional experience and Arabic language development in authentic settings.
What language level is required for internships?
Language level requirements vary depending on the specific internship. Most internships require at least Intermediate level Arabic. Speak with the student services team in your first week to explore opportunities suited to your level.

Student Life & Logistics

How do I arrange accommodation?
Accommodation applications are submitted through the student portal after enrollment is confirmed. We offer Institute residences, vetted homestays, and assistance finding private apartments. Early application is strongly recommended as places are limited.
Is halal food easily available?
Yes. The region has a wide range of halal restaurants, butchers, and market stalls. Our student life guide includes a comprehensive list of halal food providers within walking distance of campus.
What should I budget for living expenses?
As a general guide, students should budget approximately €800–€1,200 per month for accommodation, food, local transport, and personal expenses, in addition to tuition. Detailed cost-of-living guidance is provided in the pre-arrival pack.
Is Arabic spoken on campus between classes?
We strongly encourage Arabic use across the campus environment. Faculty and staff communicate with students in Arabic whenever language level permits. The campus is intentionally structured as an Arabic-speaking environment.
What support is available for students with disabilities?
Al Andaluse is committed to inclusive access. Students with disabilities or additional learning needs are encouraged to disclose these at application stage so that appropriate adjustments can be made. Contact the student welfare office for a confidential discussion.
What is included in orientation week?
Orientation includes a comprehensive two-part program: Session One covers city life, health, housing, transport, and cultural customs. Session Two provides an overview of our academic program and teaching methodology. You'll also meet faculty, take placement assessments, and participate in cultural immersion activities.

Safety & Health

Is Al Andaluse a safe place to study?
Al Andaluse takes safety very seriously. Our campus and all recommended accommodations are in safe, well-lit areas. All students receive comprehensive safety briefing during orientation, and our team provides 24/7 support. Rabat is overall a safe city with low crime rates.
What healthcare facilities are available?
The region has excellent healthcare with internationally accredited hospitals and thousands of bilingual doctors. We provide students with a pre-arrival guide to local clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies. Some medications may be, available locally, so bring prescriptions from your doctor.
Should I bring my own medications?
Yes, we recommend bringing any medications you use regularly. While most widely used prescription medications are available locally, it's best to bring an adequate supply for your stay plus a prescription from your doctor with the generic name.
Is travel insurance required?
We strongly recommend that all students purchase comprehensive travel insurance before arriving to cover any major medical costs. This provides important financial protection during your stay.
What should I do in a medical or safety emergency?
In an emergency, call 19 (operators speak English, Arabic, and French). All students receive 24/7 emergency contact numbers for Al Andaluse staff during orientation. Our team is on call at all times.

Cultural Immersion & Research

What cultural immersion opportunities are available?
Al Andaluse offers guided excursions, workshops, and immersion experiences including tours of historical sites, visits to local families, farm cultivation, handicraft learning, and interactive workshops on contemporary issues, politics, and culture.
Are excursions included in my program?
Regular programme excursions are included in your term. Optional extended weekend and multi-day excursions to Morocco and other sites of historical significance carry an additional cost beyond tuition.
Does Al Andaluse support research students?
Yes. Al Andaluse offers temporary research affiliation to doctoral and post-doctoral researchers. Affiliation assists researchers in accessing specific areas, archives, and developing relevant contacts for their work. Researchers from all disciplines and backgrounds are welcome.
Can I access academic seminars beyond language courses?
Yes. Al Andaluse offers university-level academic seminars in both Arabic and English on topics in humanities and social sciences, including history, anthropology, literature, geography, political science, and area studies. These vary by semester and may be attended alongside language courses.

Fees & Payments

When is tuition payment due?
The enrollment deposit (€400, credited toward tuition) is due within 14 days of accepting your offer. The remaining tuition balance is due four weeks before the start of your term.
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept all major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) and international bank transfer. Payment instructions are provided with your enrollment confirmation.
What is the refund policy if I need to withdraw?
Withdrawals made more than 28 days before the term start date receive a full refund minus the application fee and enrollment deposit. Withdrawals within 28 days forfeit the deposit. Withdrawals after term commencement are reviewed case by case.
Do you offer scholarship or financial aid?
Yes. A limited number of partial scholarships are available for applicants demonstrating exceptional motivation and financial need. Scholarship consideration is automatic — no separate application is required.

Still have questions?

Our admissions team responds to all enquiries within one business day.

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