FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
You can find the answers to many commonly asked questions below. If there is something you'd like to know that you don't see here, feel free to give us a call at 630.360.2373 or email us at office@masjidDS.org. You may also visit us at 21W525 North Avenue, Lombard, IL 60148.
GENERAL
Is the Tanwir Intensive accredited?
No, the 1-Year program is currently not accredited.
How much Arabic will I learn by the end of the program?
The amount of Arabic learned is directly related to the amount of effort the student puts into the program. The successful student will be able to translate most verses of the Qur’an, read beginner and intermediate-level texts in classical Arabic, and understand the fundamentals of Arabic grammar.
Will students give jumu'ah khutbahs?
Yes. Students will be taught how to deliver khutbahs. After a few months of practice, students will be deputed to small local Masajid and colleges to deliver Jumu’ah khutbahs.
Is any secular education provided?
Yes. Students of the Tanwir Intensive and 'Alimiyyah Program are offered secular education via American School, an internationally accredited high school program. These courses take place in the masjid on weekends and are taught by experienced educators from our community.
Will huffadh have time to revise their Qur'an?
Yes. Huffaz are expected to revise their Qur’an and are periodically tested to ensure they retain their memorization.
What makes this program different than other programs?
DarusSalam’s Tanwir Intensive is an immersion program; not only do students learn the language through Arabic grammar and morphology textbooks, but after completing certain Islamic Studies books in English, the students will advance to studying these subjects from Arabic textbooks as well. They are also expected to reference our library of Arabic texts for various classes. Additionally, after a few months, students are expected to speak only in Arabic, both in and out of class. All of these components together create an environment in which the students are completely immersed in the Arabic language, a factor that is crucial to attain fluency in the language.
How will this program help me when I return to school/work?
As Muslims, it is crucial that we have a firm understanding of the fundamentals of our religion. The Tanwir Intensive equips students with knowledge of our beliefs, basic fiqh issues, sirah of the Prophet ﷺ, and more. In a time where Atheism is on the rise, and religion is being challenged, it is of utmost importance that we not only be able to confidently convey the message of Islam to others, but that we ourselves truly understand our faith with unshakeable conviction.
Additionally, the importance of the Arabic language cannot be overstated. It is the language of the Qur’an, and translations to any other language simply do not suffice for us to understand the beauty and intricacy of its meanings. The ability to read the Qur’an or stand in prayer and understand what is being recited is invaluable.
ADMISSION
What kind of student is DarusSalam looking for?
DarusSalam accepts students from all walks of life who are serious about studying their deen. While the 1-year program is a beginner level program, students are expected to give 100% both in and out of the classroom.
What should I study before applying?
There are no prerequisites to the 1-year program. However, prospective students are expected to be able to read Arabic with some degree of fluency.
Does DarusSalam provide financial aid/scholarships?
Financial Aid is provided in extenuating circumstances for students who have a desire to study but are unable to afford the tuition.
STUDENT LIFE
Can I work while attending the program?
All students are encouraged to be free of any other school/work commitments while attending the program.
How many hours will I be studying daily?
Students are expected to spend at least 3 hours studying outside of class hours daily.
Does DarusSalam provide housing for students?
There are currently no arrangements for boarding at DarusSalam. However, there are apartment complexes located directly next to the Masjid for students who are 18 or over and wish to live nearby.
Can I study part-time?
No. Due to the intensive nature of the program, students will not be able to study part-time.
What is the schedule like? Are there any breaks?
Classroom instruction occurs from 8am-5pm. During these hours, two short breaks are taken in the morning and afternoon, and one long break is taken for lunch/rest. Breaks are also taken for prayers. There are mandatory study groups for male boarding students in the evening.
Do students have holiday breaks?
Yes. Students will have Fall, Winter, Spring, and Eid breaks, as well as various national holidays. We try to align our breaks with public schools for the convenience of the students' families.
Are meals provided?
Yes, DarusSalam offers optional meal plans from our partnering halal restaurants for our students. This meal plan includes lunch and dinner 7 days a week.
Are there any halal restaurants near the campus?
Yes. DarusSalam is located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, a locality with a very large Muslim population that is home to many halal restaurants and markets.
Is it possible to manage the program if I'm married with children?
It depends. There have been students who have successfully completed our 1-year program while being married with children. However, this is a sacrifice not only of the student, but of the entire family. Homework and studying will mean time away from the family, but a dedicated student with a supportive family will be able to complete the program successfully.
MISCELLANEOUS
Can a student be terminated from the program? In what cases?
Yes. This program is designed for students who are serious about learning their deen, and it requires time and dedication. Students who display a lack of interest and effort in their work can be terminated from the program.
Is there an option to continue studying beyond the Tanwir Intensive?
Yes. Students who successfully complete the 1-year program and desire to continue their education may join our full-time 'Alimiyyah Program.