Frequently Asked Questions
We know you may have many questions before embarking on this journey. Below are answers to some of the most common questions prospective students ask. If you don’t find your question here, please reach out to us. We’re happy to help!
FAQs
Is Al-Ezz Academy accredited?
No, Al-Ezz Academy is not accredited by any governmental educational body. We operate as an independent institute. This means our certificates are not automatically recognised as university degrees. However, our curriculum is rigorous and comprehensive. We stand by the quality of our programs and many students pursue them for personal enrichment, community leadership, or religious knowledge.
Are the classes live or pre-recorded?
Our classes are primarily live online sessions. We emphasise interaction. You can ask questions and engage in discussions in real-time with instructors and classmates. We use platforms like Microsoft Teams or Zoom for live lectures and seminars. That said, we do record most sessions, so if you miss one or want to review, you can watch the recording at your convenience. Additionally, some supporting materials (tutorial videos, etc.) might be pre-recorded, especially technical skills in Film & Cinema Studies or language drills in Arabic, but the core of each course is live engagement.
What are the prerequisites for joining a program?
Generally, we require:
- Educational Background: At least a high school diploma (or equivalent). For Bachelor-level programs, this ensures you have the skills needed. If you haven’t finished high school, you may still consider a Diploma program on a case-by-case basis.
- Language: Fluency in English is required since instruction is in English (except where specified, like Arabic-only sessions in advanced Arabic). You should be comfortable with academic English reading and writing.
- Islamic Background: There is no formal Shariah knowledge prerequisite for Islamic Studies or PPEH. We start with foundational concepts. However, a basic level of Islamic literacy (knowing prayer, basic beliefs) is expected since these are not converts’ basics classes but more advanced. For Arabic programs, no prior Arabic is needed for the Arabic Journey (it’s beginner level). For Arabic Mastery, you should know basic grammar and be able to read/write or have completed Arabic Journey.
- Technology: You should have a reliable internet connection and a device to attend classes (laptop/desktop or at least a tablet). The ability to use standard software (MS Word, video conferencing tools) is important.
- Commitment: A strong motivation to learn. Our programs require discipline; we often ask in the application why you want to join. This isn’t to gatekeep, but to ensure students are ready for the commitment.
We do not require entrance exams. Some programs, like Islamic Studies, might benefit if you can read Quran in Arabic script (even without understanding), but if not, you can still start. We’ll work with you.
How do I apply and what is the admissions process
Applying is straightforward:
- Online Application: Apply Now and fill out the application form on our website. It will ask for your personal details, educational background, and the program you’re interested in. There may be a short personal statement prompt.
- Document Submission: You might need to upload a scan of your last educational certificate (e.g., high school or college diploma) and a form of ID. If any prerequisites apply (like prior Arabic coursework for Arabic Mastery), include proof or mention it.
- Interview (if applicable): For certain programs or cases, we might schedule a short online interview. This is informal, a chance for us to understand your goals and for you to ask questions. For example, PPEH applicants might discuss their interest in current affairs, or Film & Cinema Studies applicants might share their creative portfolio if they have one.
- Admission Decision: You’ll receive an admission decision via email. This is usually within 2–3 weeks of a completed application. If accepted, the email will contain the next steps. If we feel you’re better suited for a different level (say, we recommend doing a Diploma first then Bachelor, or Arabic Journey before Mastery), we’ll advise accordingly.
- Enrollment & Payment: To secure your spot, you’ll need to formally enroll by signing an enrollment agreement and paying the initial tuition deposit. Our admissions team will guide you through that.
Once enrolled, you’ll get access to the student portal, class schedules, and an orientation package. We try to keep the process simple and supportive. Our admissions advisors are available to walk you through any step (you can always Book a Call to speak to someone).
What is the mode of payment for tuition?
We accept various payment methods to accommodate our international student body:
- Online Payments: Credit/debit card payments can be made through our secure online payment system.
- PayPal or Stripe: For those who prefer, we have integration with PayPal/Stripe for one-time or recurring payments.
- Bank Transfer: We can provide bank wire details for direct transfers, especially for larger sums or if paying from countries where card options are limited.
- Instalment Plans: Yes, we offer installment payment plans for tuition. Typically, you can pay per semester or break the fee into monthly installments within the semester. There’s usually no interest, but there might be a small administrative fee for many installments. Our goal is to make payments that are feasible for you.
- Scholarships/Financial Aid: If you have been granted any scholarship or discount, that will be applied to your billing. Students in financial difficulty should contact us; limited zakat-funded scholarships may be available for those pursuing Islamic studies who qualify.
We invoice in Canadian Dollars (CAD) as our base currency, but you can pay in your local currency via card, and it will convert automatically. All transactions are confidential and secure.
Will I get support if I have academic difficulties or need to pause my studies?
Absolutely, yes. We are committed to your success and understand life happens:
- Academic Support: If you find a challenging course, reach out to the instructor or TAs early. We have office hours, tutoring sessions, and study groups. For languages, we offer extra conversational circles; for tough Islamic subjects, sometimes supplementary revision sessions. Our mastery approach means we want you to master the content. We’ll help you get there.
- Progress Monitoring: If a student is struggling (e.g., low grades or missed assignments), our student support will proactively contact you to offer help. We don’t let students slip through the cracks quietly.
- Leave of Absence: If you need to pause your studies for personal reasons (health, family, etc.), you can request a Leave of Absence for a semester. We have a policy in place for this. Typically, you can take a break and resume with the next cohort where you left off. We try to be flexible, so long as you communicate with us.
- Extensions and Deferrals: If you can’t complete an exam or assignment on time, often we can grant an extension if you have a valid reason. Similarly, if you enroll but then realise you need to defer your start to the next semester, talk to admissions, we can accommodate by shifting you to the next intake.
- Community Support: You’ll also find that our student community is supportive. Many students form Telegram/WhatsApp groups to help each other study, share notes, or just morally support. When you join Al-Ezz, you’re joining a family that wants to see you succeed.
Is there a campus or in-person component?
Al-Ezz Academy is principally an online institute. We do not have a physical campus for regular classes, which allows us to reach students globally and have top instructors from around the world. However, we highly value in-person interaction and intend to:
- Host Periodic On-site Retreats/Intensives: We plan workshops or retreats in different locations when feasible. These give students and faculty a chance to meet face-to-face, engage in intensive learning, and build fellowship. These are optional but highly encouraged when available.
- Graduation Ceremony: We aim to have an in-person graduation event or ceremony for those who can attend, to celebrate accomplishments together. If not, we hold a virtual graduation, but an in-person one would rotate regions to include as many as possible.
Primarily, though, your day-to-day learning will happen online. Rest assured, our virtual classrooms are vibrant, and you will feel connected despite the distance.
What can I do with my certificate after graduating?
Our programs equip you with knowledge and skills that open many paths:
- Community Leadership & Teaching: Many graduates go on to take active roles in their communities becoming youth mentors, running halaqa sessions, teaching at weekend Islamic schools, or even becoming imams/assistant imams. The Islamic knowledge you gain gives you authority and confidence to serve.
- Academic Pursuits: Some use our programs as a springboard for further education. For example, an Islamic Studies graduate might pursue a Master’s in Islamic Studies or go abroad to study at traditional institutes (having a solid grounding now). A PPEH graduate might enter a Master’s in International Relations or Islamic Law. Our alumni have a strong foundation that can impress admissions committees, even if the credential is not formally accredited; your skills and portfolio count.
- Professional Enhancement: If you’re in a secular career, having this education can differentiate you. PPEH graduates might work in think tanks, NGOs, journalism, or public policy, bringing a unique perspective. Film & Cinema Studies grads can freelance in video production, join Muslim media outlets, or enhance their organisation’s media presence. Arabic graduates sometimes become part-time Quran teachers or translators. Employers do value the discipline and breadth of someone who undertook serious extra studies.
- Personal Improvement: Of course, many pursue our courses for personal development, to be better parents (teaching your kids), better informed Muslims, or just for the love of learning. That intrinsic reward is immeasurable: you carry the fruits of knowledge throughout life and, we pray, into the next life.
Our certificates signify that you’ve achieved a certain mastery. We also offer career and project support: if you aim to, say, start a dawah project or need a recommendation for a job/PhD, our faculty can often provide references and guidance.
Can I speak to an advisor or current student before deciding?
Certainly! We encourage you to make an informed decision:
- You can book a call with our admissions advisor who can answer any detailed questions about curriculum, scheduling, etc., and help determine if it’s the right fit.
We want you to feel confident about joining Al-Ezz Academy. Choosing to invest your time in seeking knowledge is a noble decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to write your own success story with Al-Ezz Academy?
Al-Ezz Academy is more than a school; it’s a movement to reinvigorate Islamic scholarship and produce leaders of integrity. We invite you to be part of this mission, and together, shape a brighter future for the Ummah.
