Deepen your Islamic knowledge and prepare to lead and serve your community. The Muslimah Changemaker Scholarship supports eligible Muslim women pursuing graduate study at Bayan.
About the Scholarship
The Muslimah Changemaker Scholarship helps Muslim women pursue graduate education in Islamic and interdisciplinary studies. Through rigorous coursework and engagement with faculty and peers, recipients strengthen the knowledge and skills they bring to community leadership and service.
Bayan is committed to expanding women’s access to scholarly learning and creating opportunities for women to contribute their expertise, perspectives, and leadership to their communities and society.
Our Vision
The scholarship draws inspiration from Sayyidah Fatimah al-Fihriyyah, the founding benefactor of al-Qarawiyyin in Fes, Morocco. Her commitment to learning and philanthropy offers a lasting example of women’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and institutions.
Bayan carries that vision forward by supporting American Muslim women in rigorous graduate study. We seek to expand educational opportunities, recognize women’s scholarly contributions, and make space for women’s experiences in Islamic learning and community leadership.
Inspired by Muslimah changemakers throughout history, this scholarship helps women lead with knowledge, confidence, and a commitment to the well-being of future generations.
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 a woman.
- Be involved in community development.
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
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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.
How does this scholarship benefit the Muslim community?
The scholarship supports women’s leadership through graduate education and helps recipients build relationships with fellow students and alumni. Alongside tuition support, recipients have access to women-only networking opportunities that support their continued work in the community.
Where can I learn about Bayan’s admissions process?
Visit Bayan Admissions for information about the admissions process and how to apply.
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.
Why is this scholarship for women?
This scholarship expands women’s access to graduate study in Islamic studies and leadership and supports greater equity within Bayan’s student body. Bayan also offers other scholarships for which both men and women may be eligible.
Can I use the scholarship at another institution?
No. The Muslimah Changemaker Scholarship 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.
What kinds of community involvement qualify?
Applicants should demonstrate consistent involvement in community development, whether through paid work or volunteer service. Examples include work in mosques, Islamic schools, Muslim or interfaith organizations, humanitarian programs, social services, community healthcare, fitness, and nutrition. Other forms of sustained community service may also qualify.
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.