ALIM SUMMER PROGRAM
3-Week Faith-Affirming Islamic Intensive
Applications Now Open
Applications Now Open
Planning for Summer 2026? Applications and interest forms are now open for ALIM's 27th annual three-week faith-affirming Islamic intensive, taking place at Benedictine University in Illinois from July 2–26, 2026. This transformative program is designed to help you strengthen your faith, deepen your Islamic literacy, and connect with like-minded Muslims from around the world, while equipping you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of the modern world.
For over 25 years, the American Learning Institute for Muslims (ALIM) has been dedicated to spreading Islamic literacy and empowering Muslims. The ALIM Summer Program offers a balanced curriculum covering traditional subjects like Fiqh, Tafsir, and Sirah, alongside contemporary topics such as Islam in America, Modernism, Sectarianism, and Liberalism. Participants will learn directly from highly respected, world-renowned scholars, gaining both deep knowledge and practical tools to strengthen their faith while engaging with a diverse community of students.
Engage in dynamic, interactive courses that bring Islamic knowledge to life and learn directly from highly respected scholars. With class sizes limited to just 50 students, you’ll benefit from personalized attention while becoming part of a supportive and collaborative learning community. Our inclusive environment encourages open dialogue, allowing students to ask questions freely and build lasting bonds with peers.
No accepted student is ever turned away due to financial need. We offer scholarships and flexible payment plans to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Begin your application today and join our vibrant academic community.
No accepted student is ever turned away due to financial need. We offer scholarships and flexible payment plans to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate. Begin your application today and join our vibrant academic community.
interest form
Join the Class of 2026
Summer Program overview
The ALIM Summer Program focuses on developing critical thinking skills while promoting true Muslim character through an interactive and stimulating curriculum designed to provoke thought while emphasizing moral values. ALIM's Core Scholars are highly trained and hold Ph.D.s, ensuring a high level of academic expertise.
The study of tradition fosters critical thinking, while the contemporary courses invoke tradition, thus empowering participants with the tools to balance contemporary realities with traditional sciences. Moreover, the Summer Program imbues students with the tarbiyyah (spiritual training) to fortify their personal identity, while inspiring them to contribute to the betterment of society. With a network of 1,300+ ALIMni worldwide, the opportunities for global connections and networking are endless.
Experience a transformative educational journey that merges critical thinking with a solid Islamic foundation at our ALIM Summer Program.
The study of tradition fosters critical thinking, while the contemporary courses invoke tradition, thus empowering participants with the tools to balance contemporary realities with traditional sciences. Moreover, the Summer Program imbues students with the tarbiyyah (spiritual training) to fortify their personal identity, while inspiring them to contribute to the betterment of society. With a network of 1,300+ ALIMni worldwide, the opportunities for global connections and networking are endless.
Experience a transformative educational journey that merges critical thinking with a solid Islamic foundation at our ALIM Summer Program.
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 (includes deposit, no lodging): $2,500
Students who live in Illinois and commute daily receive a discounted tuition rate - Full Tuition (includes deposit and lodging): $3,250
Covers room and board, daily meals, and transportation for field trips. - Late Registration (starting May 1, 2026): $3,500
Includes deposit. We recommend registering early to lock in the lower rate.
Payment Plans: Once you’ve paid the deposit, the remaining balance can be divided into easy installments. We offer flexible, customizable payment plans to help make tuition more manageable.
Financial Aid: No accepted student is turned away due to lack of funds. Apply for financial aid after acceptance for the remaining tuition payment. Please note: the $500 deposit is required to secure your spot, regardless of financial aid approval.
Application and tuition
Program Fees & Additional Info
Deposit Payment Plans:
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.
When to Pay
Remaining tuition can be paid after you’ve submitted your application, deposit, completed the interview, and received an official acceptance email.
Attendance & Residency Expectations
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.
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.
When to Pay
Remaining tuition can be paid after you’ve submitted your application, deposit, completed the interview, and received an official acceptance email.
Attendance & Residency Expectations
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.
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)
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 3-27, 2025. Students should arrive on the first day preferably prior to 3 pm in order to be there for the orientation session.
ALIMni Testimonials
Join a network of 1,200+ ALImni
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Testimonials
Meet 2024 Alimni
ALIM provided me with the proper foundation of Islam. All the scholars are phenomenal and come with different teaching styles. Each instructor incorporates diverse viewpoints of Islam—it’s important to have all the information about Islam so we can be empowered to make informed decisions on how we want to practice our faith and raise our kids in the future.” — Hadia Ali, Master’s in Biomedical Sciences, Loyola University
Favorite Class: Medicines of the Heart with Imam Mohamed Magid
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. — Muhamad Mussani, Computer Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison
Favorite Class: Seerah with Dr. Sherman Jackson
The amazing thing about ALIM is having the opportunity to engage with scholars inside and outside of class. The faculty has 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." — Kate Bridges-Lyman, Master of Divinity, University of Chicago.
Advice to future students: “Sleep early and soak up as much information as you can!”
This program allowed me to see Islam through different lenses and it made me realize no matter how different we all are, we all connect through Islam." — Shaheed Price, revert, husband, completing a 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 study more and maybe even attend the program again!” — Keyana Price, revert, wife, completing a Bachelor’s in Psychology.
Advice to future ALIM couples: “Set intentions as a couple and for yourself!”
ALIM summer program Blog
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BY: USTADH UBAYDULLAH EVANS
ALIM Scholar-in-Residence |
WHAT MAKES THE ALIM SUMMER PROGRAM SPECIAL?
"Embracing diversity without succumbing to relativism is one of the greatest cultural achievements of Islam. Many students appreciate the ALIM SP because it embodies this ethic. As one of our previous students brilliantly put it: “It’s one thing to simply share physical space with people from other backgrounds; it’s entirely another to negotiate mutually exclusive truth claims with people whose experiences are completely different than mine and feel at home doing so. I feel as though we’re all collectively benefitting from one another.” Her insightful comments actually brought the Qur’ān to mind..."
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 within the tradition. The result, which was highlighted by capstone projects completed by the students, is that students develop wildly diverse ideas about the utility of what they’ve learned."
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