Long and short-term academic programs are available in Morocco across many universities and educational centers. International students and researchers may apply to BA, MA, Ph.D., and postdoctoral research programs in Morocco. Moreover, summer schools and conferences are other excellent academic activities that make Morocco an attractive destination for scholars and scientists. Many programs also come with fully-funded scholarships and fellowships as well as travel grants and financial aid, thus every student, researcher, and professor can always find a suitable program in Morocco and apply.
Scholarships and Fellowships in Morocco
- IBN Battuta Scholarships
- US Embassy and Consulates in Morocco Professional Exchanges
- SALAAM Fellowship
Summer programs in Morocco
- ciee Summer Moroccan Studies
- AMIDEAST Intensive Arabic in Rabat, Morocco
- Qalam wa Lawh Summer in Morocco
- The University of Arizona Summer in Morocco Program
- Lankey Study Abroad in Morocco
- IAU’s Summer Program in Tangier
- Yale Summer Session in Rabat
- KIIS Morocco Program
Morocco is one of the few spots in the world that managed to preserve its national culture and do not mix it too much with the global movements. Locals are predominantly religious, and you will feel the influence of that fact in everyday life while residing in the country. Among many benefits of studying in Morocco, the Arabic culture and lifestyle are attractive points for international students, especially for those coming from European and American cultural backgrounds.
Morocco’s official language is Arabic, which might slightly worry you if you do not come from an Arabic country. However, students are not likely to face language barriers, as it’s common for locals to speak three or more languages besides Arabic, including English, French, Spanish, and Berber.
Universities in Morocco
The oldest university in the country is THE UNIVERSITY OF AL-KARAOUINE, which officially received its name and university status in 1965. However, the AL-KARAOUINE had a long history and role in the country’s development before that. The earliest history began in 859 when it was constructed as a mosque for Fatima al-Fihri’s community. The construction also had an associated school, madrasa.
Further, madrasa underwent many changes and improvements throughout history, becoming a full-scale higher educational institution from the key spiritual center. Because of its magnificence in history and architecture, UNESCO and Guinness World Records recognize THE UNIVERSITY OF AL-KARAOUINE as the oldest university in the world operating up to current.
Besides, Morocco has 14 universities and many technical institutes. The educational institutions in Morocco cover a broad spectrum of academic disciplines and degree programs. However, if you are principal about learning in English, do thorough research before applying to any university, as many of them provide education in French. For English programs, you should pass the standard TOEFL and IELTS exams.
For your more straightforward navigation among the available university choices, here are the five universities in Morocco included in the Times Higher Education’s annual rankings.
- Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University
- University Hassan II de Casablanca
- Ibn Tofail University
- University of Marrakech Cadi Ayyad
- Mohammed V University of Rabat
Student expenses in Morocco
For the Western region, where Morocco is located, the country is considered one of the most affordable education providers. A yearly tuition fee in Morocco comprises 10,000-15,000 $; check more details in your chosen host university.
The country is also said to be one with lower living costs. The country’s capital is Rabat, and therefore the majority of the students might want to study and reside there to explore the country to its fullest. However, some other major cities in Morocco are also ready to navigate you through the richness of the Moroccan academic opportunities. For example, you can also focus your attention on Fez, Essaouira, Tangier, Marrakesh, etc. Moreover, Morocco is not a country where the capital is the most famous city in terms of concentration of entertainment and educational options.
House renting prices also differ based on which city you choose your accommodation in. However, a more vital role plays in renting a house in or outside of the city center. Depending on the mentioned circumstance, you can anticipate spending from 200-450 $ on monthly house rent.
Research opportunities in Morocco
The Moroccan government aims to enhance the country’s research through its numerous policies and development programs. Many life spheres can be improved by the scientific approach, including the high dependence of the countries on electricity.
Starting from 2014, there began the construction processes for Foundation for Research, Development and Innovation in Science and Engineering, which was ready in 2016 and promoted cooperation between the private and public sectors since then. It works to enhance research and innovation in Morocco.
The Foundation organizes three-sided cooperation between state institutions, research centers, and businesses operating in Morocco. Altogether, the parties reply to Moroccan economic requirements by supporting business and enhancing tighter collaboration between young people and job markets. Head to the website for more details.
The research directions are currently prioritized in several directions. Those include Humanities and Social Sciences, Strategic Studies, Development Studies, Medicine, Agriculture, and more.
Below, find some of the research institutions focused on those areas.
- Laboratory for Research on Comparative Democratic Transition
- Moroccan Center for Contemporary Studies and Research
- Royal Institute for Strategic Studies
- Interdisciplinary Moroccan Center for Strategic and International Studies
- Center for Legal, Economic, and Social Studies
The streets and architecture of Morocco make visitors forget they live in the 21st century of globalization. Walking in many sightseeings of the country, you will feel yourself in the real version of Disney’s Aladdin animated film. Therefore, if you want a study abroad experience, which will grant you more than an academic upgrade, the country is one of your best options. We hope this section of ARMACAD will help you have an unforgettable and productive trip to Morocco.