Build on your knowledge of the Qur’an through graduate study. The Preservers Scholarship supports men and women who have memorized the entire Qur’an and teach it on a verifiable regular and on-going basis.
About the Scholarship
The Preservers Scholarship supports huffaz, men and women who have memorized the Qur’an in its entirety, as they pursue graduate education at Bayan. Through Islamic and interdisciplinary studies, recipients deepen their understanding and strengthen their ability to teach, lead, and serve their communities.
Preserving and Teaching the Qur’an
Preserving the Qur’an is a commitment to its words, meanings, and transmission to future generations. Memorization and recitation require sustained study, careful instruction, and regular review. The tradition also includes the study of pronunciation, interpretation, and other Qur’anic sciences.
Through teaching and scholarly transmission, preservers help carry this tradition forward to the next generation of Muslim Americans. The scholarship honors their work and supports their continued development as educators and community leaders.
Our Vision
Bayan is committed to helping preservers connect their knowledge of the Qur’an with the needs of the communities they serve. Graduate education provides Islamic and interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills that strengthen teaching, support thoughtful leadership, and help pass on the faith to 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.
- Have memorized the Qur’an in its entirety.
- Teach Qur’an memorization and/or recitation on a verifiable regular and on-going basis at a masjid, school, organization or through formal private tutoring.
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. Recipients must also continue teaching Qur’an memorization and/or recitation on a verifiable regular and on-going basis at a masjid, school, organization or through formal private tutoring.
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.
Where can I learn about Bayan’s admissions process?
Visit Bayan Admissions for information about the admissions process and how to apply.
Is the scholarship open to both men and women?
Yes. Men and women may apply if they have memorized the Qur’an in its entirety, teach Qur’an memorization and/or recitation on a verifiable regular and on-going basis at a masjid, school, organization or through formal private tutoring, and meet the other eligibility requirements.
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 Preservers Scholarship is available only to students admitted to Bayan’s master’s degree programs at Claremont School of Theology. It cannot be used for study at 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.
Who selects scholarship recipients?
A selection committee made up of Bayan board members, faculty, staff, and advisors reviews applications and selects recipients.