Restore hope and uplift those in need. The Muhammad Ali Scholarship for Spiritual Leadership supports students who serve disenfranchised and marginalized American communities through spiritual leadership and social impact.
About the Scholarship
The Muhammad Ali Scholarship for Spiritual Leadership helps students pursue graduate education at Bayan and prepare to serve disenfranchised and marginalized American communities. Through rigorous coursework and engagement with faculty and peers, recipients strengthen the knowledge and skills they bring to spiritual leadership, service, and social impact.
Spiritual Leadership and Service
Spiritual leadership meets people in moments of hardship and helps communities find hope, dignity, and direction. It calls for knowledge, compassion, and a sustained commitment to those who are too often overlooked.
This scholarship honors a legacy of courage and service to the marginalized. It supports students who bring that same commitment to their work, whether through chaplaincy, community service, education, or advocacy on behalf of underserved communities.
Our Vision
Bayan is committed to preparing spiritual leaders who serve those most in need. Graduate education provides Islamic and interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills that strengthen care, support thoughtful leadership, and help recipients restore hope in the communities they serve.
Through this scholarship, Bayan invests in the next generation of Muslim American leaders who uplift, serve, and inspire change.
Tuition Award
The scholarship covers at least 50% and up to 80% of tuition for coursework at Bayan through Claremont School of Theology (CST). Funds are applied incrementally each semester until recipients complete their degree, provided they maintain scholarship eligibility.
- Master of Arts (MA): 39 credits over two years.
- Master of Divinity (MDiv): 72 credits over three years.
Enrollment and Eligibility
Full-Time and Part-Time Enrollment
Part-time degree students may be considered for the scholarship. Full-time students receive preference in both initial selection and continued eligibility.
Initial Eligibility
To be considered, applicants must:
- Have been admitted to Bayan’s MA or MDiv program at Claremont School of Theology.
- Be a citizen or legal resident of the United States.
- Be actively working in or volunteering in a significant capacity in leadership and service to disenfranchised and marginalized Muslim American communities.
Scholarship Application Requirements
Applicants should demonstrate academic merit, with an entering cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, and submit the following:
- A 750-word personal vision statement emphasizing significant leadership and/or scholarly engagement in the community.
- A 500-word professional growth plan.
- A résumé, uploaded as an attachment.
- One letter of endorsement from a community leader, uploaded as an attachment.
- One letter of recommendation from a person of the applicant’s choice, uploaded as an attachment.
The letters submitted for scholarship consideration must be different from those used for the application for admission.
Each applicant is evaluated on their overall qualifications, and extenuating circumstances may be considered. A bachelor’s degree is generally required for admission, although an exemption may be granted in certain cases.
Application Deadlines
Admission Application Deadline
- Fall term: June 15
- Spring term: November 15
Scholarship Application Deadline
For admitted and eligible students:
- Fall term: July 15
- Spring term: December 15
Maintaining Eligibility
Scholarship recipients must maintain continuous enrollment in accordance with the school’s policies and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
No matching questions found. Try another search.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Once you have been admitted to a Bayan degree program and meet the scholarship’s eligibility requirements, click the “Apply for the Scholarship” button on this page to complete the scholarship application by the applicable scholarship deadline.
Where can I learn about Bayan’s admissions process?
Visit Bayan Admissions for information about the admissions process and how to apply.
What kinds of service qualify?
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to serving disenfranchised and marginalized communities, whether through paid work or volunteer service. Examples include chaplaincy, spiritual care, reentry and prison ministry, community organizing, social services, humanitarian programs, education, and advocacy. Other forms of sustained service to underserved communities may also qualify.
How are scholarship funds applied?
Each semester, scholarship funds are applied directly to the recipient’s tuition balance at Claremont School of Theology, based on their Bayan course load. Funding continues as the student progresses toward graduation and maintains eligibility. Funds are not paid directly to students and cannot be used for study at another institution.
Can I use the scholarship at another institution?
No. The Muhammad Ali Scholarship for Spiritual Leadership is available only to students admitted to Bayan’s master’s degree programs at Claremont School of Theology. It cannot be transferred to another institution.
Does the scholarship include a living stipend or cover travel expenses?
No. The scholarship provides tuition support and does not include a stipend for living expenses, short-term housing for in-person classes, travel, books, supplies or other costs.
How can a Bayan graduate degree support my work?
Graduate study at Bayan develops knowledge and skills relevant to leadership, scholarship, spiritual care, and community service. Learning with faculty and peers provides a structured setting for academic growth and can strengthen your preparation for professional opportunities and service to your community.
Who selects scholarship recipients?
A selection committee made up of Bayan board members, faculty, staff, and advisors reviews applications and selects recipients.