Arabic Language Schools Abroad
Arabic, spoken by approximately 420 million people, is one of the most widely used languages in the world and an official language of the United Nations. However, it can easily be classified into multiple languages due to the numerous dialects and influences from other languages. Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), originating from the Arabian Peninsula, is the written and official version used in the Quran, textbooks, news, and government affairs.
Studying Arabic can increase your employability and help you stand apart from other candidates in government and specialized job markets. It also helps to foster cultural understanding, dispels stereotypes about the Middle East, and builds pathways for meaningful global relationships.
There are a multitude of courses and programs available for those seeking to master Arabic. However, with a different alphabet and grammar structure, Arabic can be exceedingly difficult to learn if you are not committed. Most programs only except those that have previous experience with the language and can prove they are serious about learning more. It’s not a language that can simply fill an academic credit.
- University courses: If you want to get a head start, there are plenty of options right in the United States to take Arabic courses at universities or any language school. However, lessons in America will most likely be taught in MSA and there are far fewer courses and written material that teach the regional varieties of Arabic. If you are planning to work, volunteer, or travel in a specific country, where communication with locals is key, knowing MSA won’t be adequately helpful. The best way to learn the local version of Arabic is to go there.
- Homestays: Living with a host family is by far the best way to fully immerse yourself and learn the colloquial language the quickest! Plenty of study abroad programs offer home stays while taking courses at a university or language school, allowing you to gain insight into Arab traditions, social customs, and daily life. It also means daily home-cooked meals, and typically a home-stay is cheaper than renting or paying for a hotel.
- Study Abroad: There are several American style universities in Egypt of the Middle East that will collaborate with your home university to ensure you receive the academic credits you need. If you are serious about becoming fluent in Arabic you should spend at least a year in the country of your choice. The price of programs varies greatly depending on which country you choose, the length of your stay, and which universities your home institution is affiliated with.
Popular Locations for Learning Arabic
Arabic is spoken in many different countries, with 25+ countries claiming Arabic as their official language!
The four places people consistently go to study Arabic are Lebanon, Egypt, Dubai, and Morocco. They have American style universities and more options for courses, exchange programs, tutoring, and home stays.
Choosing an Arabic Learning Program
It’s very important to know what you want out of the language when you choose a program.There are a variety of different forms of Arabic spoken, so choosing your country is the same as choosing which dialect you will learn (you can still learn MSA anywhere you go).
You also need to evaluate what’s important to you: living with a family vs. your privacy, having excursions included vs. a more independent experience, being taught by private tutors vs. with a group of other students, taking classes at a university vs. a language school, the intensity of the program, and how much you are willing to spend.
If you are seeking a scholarship to continue your Arabic studies, there are plenty of ways to find help. Intensive programs and homestays can be costly, easily upwards of $5000 for a semester, which might not include flights, visas, and other traveling expenses.
Here are a few options:
- AMIDEAST offers Need-Based Scholarships as well as Blog Abroad opportunities for summer and semester long terms. You must be enrolled in a university and display high academic performance. Awards can be up to $5000 for a semester.
- Boren Scholarships and Fellowships are highly prestigious. You must be either enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies. Preference is also given to students who will study abroad for longer periods of time, and who are highly motivated by the opportunity to work in the federal government.
- Critical Language Scholarship Program offers awards to students currently enrolled in university. Preference will be given to those who show they plan to use the language for a future career. CLS will help with obtaining a visa.
Arabic Language Programs
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Frequently Asked Questions
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How much does it cost to study Arabic in Egypt?
Arabic language course fees can vary due to length, location, intensity, and other course inclusions such as housing and/or meals. For example, you can find private lessons for as little as $5 per hour or group courses at a language school for $500 for 50 hours over two weeks. If you stay longer, say four weeks with 120 hours of instruction and include housing, the course may cost over $1,000.
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How can I learn the Arabic language in Saudi Arabia?
There are three different types of Arabic language courses you can take in Saudi Arabia: university classes, language school courses, or private tutoring. Think about your learning style and what kind of Arabic learning experience you would like -- immersion in university life, flexibility with language learning during evenings and weekends, or one-on-one tutoring.
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Where can I learn Arabic in Egypt?
Most language schools in Egypt are located in the capital city of Cairo. This is the best place to find Arabic language courses for an immersive experience due to the great instructors, cultural activities, and excursions available.
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How much does it cost to study Arabic in Saudi Arabia?
Tuition fees depend on the type of institution. For example, at a language center, it can cost $450 for two classes per week over an eight week period. If you decide to stay for six months, a course with more classes per week could run up to $16,000. Private lessons will be the most expensive option and will cost around $40 per hour.