ALIM SUMMER PROGRAM
3-Week Faith-Affirming Islamic Intensive
Applications Now Open
Applications Now Open
Applications and interest forms are now open for ALIM’s 27th annual three-week Islamic intensive, taking place at Benedictine University in Illinois from July 2–26, 2026.
The ALIM Summer Program is rooted in tradition and grounded in critical thinking, designed for Muslims navigating today’s world. It offers a space to strengthen your faith, deepen your Islamic literacy, and connect with a global community of like-minded Muslims, empowering you to navigate the complexities of the modern world with clarity and purpose.
The ALIM Summer Program is rooted in tradition and grounded in critical thinking, designed for Muslims navigating today’s world. It offers a space to strengthen your faith, deepen your Islamic literacy, and connect with a global community of like-minded Muslims, empowering you to navigate the complexities of the modern world with clarity and purpose.
For 25+ years, the American Learning Institute for Muslims (ALIM) has been dedicated to empowering Muslims through Islamic Literacy. The Summer Program reflects that commitment through a balanced curriculum that brings together traditional disciplines, such as Fiqh, Tafsir, and Sirah—with critical engagement on contemporary topics including Islam in America, modernism, sectarianism, and liberalism.
Students learn directly from highly esteemed scholars, gaining both depth of knowledge and practical tools to strengthen their faith.
Full tuition includes on-campus housing, with commuter options available for those who prefer to live off campus. Scholarships and flexible payment plans are available to make the program accessible. No accepted student is turned away due to financial need.
Summer Program overview
The Summer Program is designed to cultivate thoughtful, grounded Muslims through a curriculum that is both rooted in tradition and responsive to today’s realities. Students engage classical disciplines alongside contemporary questions, developing the clarity and confidence to live their faith with purpose.
With a cohort limited to 50 students, the program offers a personal learning environment where students engage directly with scholars, ask questions openly, build meaningful relationships beyond the classroom, and become part of a diverse learning community connected to a global network of over 1,300 ALIMni.
Alongside academic study, the program emphasizes tarbiyyah (spiritual development), nurturing character, conviction, and a deeper connection to faith.
With a cohort limited to 50 students, the program offers a personal learning environment where students engage directly with scholars, ask questions openly, build meaningful relationships beyond the classroom, and become part of a diverse learning community connected to a global network of over 1,300 ALIMni.
Alongside academic study, the program emphasizes tarbiyyah (spiritual development), nurturing character, conviction, and a deeper connection to faith.
Scholars & Courses
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Core Courses:
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Previous Courses:
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Tuition & Payment Options
- Deposit Only: $500
Secure your spot with a non-refundable deposit. This amount goes toward your total tuition.
- Commuter Tuition: $2,500
Students who live in Illinois and commute daily receive a discounted tuition rate.
- Full Tuition: $3,250
(Includes lodging, meals, and transportation for field trips)
- Late Registration (after June 15, 2026): $3,500
Payment Plans
After your deposit, the remaining balance can be divided into flexible installments.
Financial Aid
No accepted student is turned away due to lack of funds. Apply for financial aid after acceptance for the remaining balance.
Please note: the $500 deposit is required to secure your spot.
After your deposit, the remaining balance can be divided into flexible installments.
Financial Aid
No accepted student is turned away due to lack of funds. Apply for financial aid after acceptance for the remaining balance.
Please note: the $500 deposit is required to secure your spot.
Application and Deposit
Program Fees & Additional Info
Payment Plans & Tuition
While we encourage paying the full deposit upfront to secure your spot, if absolutely necessary, you may contact us to discuss a possible payment arrangement. Remaining tuition can be paid after you’ve submitted your application, deposit, completed the interview, and received an official acceptance email.
Refund Policy
While we encourage paying the full deposit upfront to secure your spot, if absolutely necessary, you may contact us to discuss a possible payment arrangement. Remaining tuition can be paid after you’ve submitted your application, deposit, completed the interview, and received an official acceptance email.
Refund Policy
- Withdraw before June 1: Full refund (minus credit card processing fees)
- Withdraw after June 1: Deposit is forfeited; tuition is refunded
- Withdraw after June 25: No refunds (deposit or tuition)
Information Session
A Sound Heart, Beyond Ramadan
Join Ubaydullah Evans for a recorded conversation on deepening your relationship with Allah and the Qur’an, and living your faith with greater clarity and consistency.
You’ll also get a closer look at the ALIM Summer Program and how it supports meaningful spiritual and intellectual growth within a strong community. Register below to receive the recorded discussion!
You’ll also get a closer look at the ALIM Summer Program and how it supports meaningful spiritual and intellectual growth within a strong community. Register below to receive the recorded discussion!
frequently asked
What is the purpose of the ALIM Summer Program?
As Muslims, many of us have to face constant questioning on issues such as: belief in a God, the role of faith in one’s life, the relevance of Islam in the current, cultural context, and what is our individual responsibility within that context.
For 25+ years, the ALIM Summer Program has empowered American Muslims through Islamic Literacy by providing life-changing courses and experiences led by renowned scholars, such as: Dr. Sherman Jackson, Dr. Muneer Fareed, Dr. Ali Sulaiman Ali, and Ust. Ubaydullah Evans. We have been blessed to have guest scholars through the years, including: Imam Mohamed Magid, Dr. Ingrid Mattson, Dr. Umar Faruq Abd-Allah, Imam Zaid Shakir, and many others.
For 25+ years, the ALIM Summer Program has empowered American Muslims through Islamic Literacy by providing life-changing courses and experiences led by renowned scholars, such as: Dr. Sherman Jackson, Dr. Muneer Fareed, Dr. Ali Sulaiman Ali, and Ust. Ubaydullah Evans. We have been blessed to have guest scholars through the years, including: Imam Mohamed Magid, Dr. Ingrid Mattson, Dr. Umar Faruq Abd-Allah, Imam Zaid Shakir, and many others.
What knowledge do I need beforehand?
While there is no set level of knowledge, it is necessary to have at least a basic understanding of Islamic principles. This means that one should know the basics of prayer, be familiar with the meaning of the Qur’an, know the general life of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him), and be familiar with at least a few common hadith. This program will assume at least this basic knowledge and it is unlikely that one would benefit without this level of exposure. If you are not sure you meet this level, please contact us at [email protected].
What will the format of the program be?
Experience high-quality and comprehensive instruction from our team of experienced scholars and activists in a classroom-like atmosphere during the day. Our instructors actively encourage student engagement and are readily available to address any questions or concerns. Classes run from morning till early evening, allowing for breaks for prayer and meals. With over 160 hours of meticulously planned instruction, students receive an educational experience that surpasses the intensity of a full spring semester in college. Every evening brings a varied schedule, from fun-filled activities like sports and games to productive study groups for reviewing course material. Once a week, students can look forward to a special outing or event such as sightseeing, mosque visits, or relaxed BBQs.
Do you offer scholarships?
Do you offer payment plans?
Whether you're a new student or ALIMni, we now have an easy, flexible way to pay off tuition. Learn more about payment plans here.
What does tuition cover?
Tuition includes room and board, meals, and transportation on field trips. Students are responsible for covering transportation to and from the program and any additional purchases such as additional meals, snacks, and items for the apartment such as sheets and bedding
Do I have to pay my deposit when I apply, or after I’ve been accepted to the program?
With limited spots in the summer program, the application process is first come first serve. An applicant is not officially accepted into the program until they have submitted their deposit. Those applicants who apply and have paid their deposit, get higher priority than those who apply without submitting a deposit. If an application is not approved, then the deposit will be fully refunded.
Should I bring anything with me?
Yes, we recommend bringing the following:
- Qur’an with translation (Note: Also bring a Qur’an specifically for recitation)
- Laptop/Tablet (for note taking and all reading materials will be sent electronically)
- Notebooks/paper and pens/pencils/highlighters
- Full size bed sheets, blanket, pillow, and a towel
- Toiletries (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Soap, Shampoo/Conditioner, Towels, Shower Shoes, Hair Brush, etc.)
- Laundry Detergent for laundry machines (this can also be purchased upon arrival)
- Hangers and Clothing: Warm, Cold, Recreational
- Shoes (at least one pair for recreation)
- Optional: Blow Dryer
- Optional: Additional money for personal use (Instacart orders etc.).
- Qur’an with translation (Note: Also bring a Qur’an specifically for recitation)
- Laptop/Tablet (for note taking and all reading materials will be sent electronically)
- Notebooks/paper and pens/pencils/highlighters
- Full size bed sheets, blanket, pillow, and a towel
- Toiletries (Toothpaste, Toothbrush, Soap, Shampoo/Conditioner, Towels, Shower Shoes, Hair Brush, etc.)
- Laundry Detergent for laundry machines (this can also be purchased upon arrival)
- Hangers and Clothing: Warm, Cold, Recreational
- Shoes (at least one pair for recreation)
- Optional: Blow Dryer
- Optional: Additional money for personal use (Instacart orders etc.).
I live in Illinois—do I have to live on campus?
While students are highly encouraged to live on campus to fully immerse themselves in the ALIM Summer Program experience, commuting is an option if necessary. We offer a discounted tuition of $2,500 (including the deposit) for daily commuters who will not be staying in the provided lodging.
Where can I learn more about the courses and daily schedule?
I'm traveling from out of state. What dates should I book my transportation?
The program is this July 2-26, 2026. Students should arrive on the first day preferably prior to 3 pm in order to be there for the orientation session.
What are the attendance expectations for the program?
All students are expected to attend all classes and arrive on time. Students traveling from outside Illinois are required to live on campus to fully experience the ALIM Summer Program.
ALIMni Testimonials
Join a network of 1,200+ ALImni
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Testimonials
Alimni experiences
ALIM provided me with the proper foundation of Islam. All the scholars are phenomenal and come with different teaching styles, incorporating diverse viewpoints of Islam."
Favorite Class: Medicines of the Heart with Imam Mohamed Magid
— Hadia Ali, Master’s in Biomedical Sciences, Loyola University
ALIM gave me a sense of brotherhood, belonging, and taught me how to not only maintain my deen but also grow it. The program taught me how to go about my life and also left me with a lot of questions about how I want to continue to pursue Islam.
Favorite Class: Seerah with Dr. Sherman Jackson
— Muhamad Mussani, Computer Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison
The amazing thing about ALIM is having the opportunity to engage with scholars inside and outside of class. The faculty modeled diversity in thought and opinion within the Islamic tradition and the courses embody the idea of American Muslims in ways I haven’t seen before. The unique emphasis on grounding Islam within the U.S. context makes the content especially relevant to our present-day lives. As a convert, this has been particularly meaningful to me."
Advice to future students: “Sleep early and soak up as much information as you can!”
— Kate Bridges-Lyman, Master of Divinity, University of Chicago
This program allowed me to see Islam through different lenses and it made me realize no matter how different we all are, we're all connect through Islam."
— Shaheed Price, (husband)
Bachelor’s in Black Studies
ALIM has empowered me to want to dig deeper into Islamic studies. After being disconnected from religion for a long time, the knowledge I’ve gained has inspired me to want to continue learning beyond the program.”
Advice to future ALIM couples: “Set intentions as a couple and for yourself!”
— Keyana Price, (wife)
Bachelor’s in Psychology
interest form
Join the Class of 2026
program Reflections
WHAT MAKES THE ALIM SUMMER PROGRAM SPECIAL?
BY: USTADH UBAYDULLAH EVANS
ALIM Scholar-in-Residence
ALIM Scholar-in-Residence
"Embracing diversity without succumbing to relativism is one of the greatest cultural achievements of Islam. Many students appreciate the ALIM Summer Program because it embodies this ethic..."
ALIM Summer Program Afterword
By: Ustadh Ubaydullah Evans
"When instructors are intellectually honest (which shouldn’t be confused with conviction-lacking 'objectivity') students are given license to find themselves..."
Become a FACILITATOR
Are you interested in being a facilitator at the ALIM Summer Program?
Since 1998, the ALIM Summer Program has empowered Muslim students through deep, transformative learning. A key part of its success is the presence of two dedicated on-site facilitators (counselors) and a supervisor who support students throughout the program.
If you’ve previously attended the ALIM Summer Program and would like to serve in this rewarding role, please complete the application form below
If you’ve previously attended the ALIM Summer Program and would like to serve in this rewarding role, please complete the application form below