With the approach of every summer season, many final year high school students will be pondering their options to pursue their higher education either in Dubai or abroad.

 

For those whose worries are financial in nature, we are here to help. The Education Board oversees the successful HELP (Higher Education Loan Program) which facilitates financial assistance to deserving students for their university education by way of interest free loans that are paid back to the Education Board within five years of the graduation date.

 

In order to mitigate the risks of loan defaulters, the HELP program requires that two guarantors confirm that in case the loan event is not paid by the due date, they will undertake the responsibility to pay back the loans given to the student.

 

The criteria that the Board looks for when giving out loans is:

(a) Financial need

(b) Reasonable academic performance in high school

(c) A strong desire and commitment to pursue a university degree in the chosen field.

 

The program was started back in 1997 and has grown from strength to strength particularly in the last 3-4 years with 5 active students currently enrolled in universities. A total of 18 students have participated in the program to date.

 

We encourage those students who are interested in taking advantage of this program to contact us to see if they can be a part of the HELP program. Spaces are limited and students will be entertained on a first-come, first-serve basis. Alhamdu-lillah, we have been able to accept applications from all deserving students so parents and students who are interested in the program are strongly encouraged to come forward and get more information. After all, higher education will go a long way in securing the future of our youths.

 

Program Key Facts

  • Loan Amount: Up to a maximum amount of Dhs 20,000 annually

  • Loan must be repaid within 5 years of graduation date

  • Students are encouraged to enroll in local universities; but can choose international universities (subject to review and consideration)

  • Students or their guardians must be Jamaat members for at least 5 years (Ed Board may consider exception for new residents)

How the program works

  • Prospective Students fill out form with all required details atleast 2 months prior to the start of their loan requirement. Click here to download the application form.

  • Financial need and reasonably good academic background must be demonstrated

  • Prospective student needs to recruit two guarantors who are willing to undertake responsibility of repayment should the student fail to pay back by the due dates.

  • HELP coordinator reviews the form, conducts interviews with the student/guardian and guarantors.

  • If above is satisfactory, Ed Board approves loan on recommendation of coordinator

  • Payment is made directly to universities as required

  • Grades and performance need to be reported every term/semester

  • After graduation, repayment schedule is determined and repayments to Education Board start.