Learning Arabic in Egypt
Learning Arabic has become of critical importance in recent years. The best way to learn this complex language is to immerse oneself in an Arabic country while studying it formally at a university or college. Egypt offers in-depth, professional schools for learning Arabic as well as a secure environment in which to study.
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History
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Egypt has been a staunch ally of the United States ever since it signed the Camp David Peace Accords with Israel. The result of the accords has been a huge influx of tourist dollars and students studying at Egyptian colleges and universities. Because tourism and foreign students represent a large portion of Egypt's economy, the government and people have taken great pains to provide a safe, friendly place to study and play for foreigners.
Be aware, however, that certain activities in Egypt are not acceptable, such as alcoholic consumption or partaking of illicit drugs, and can put you in an awkward legal position. Other than that, Egyptian government and society takes a hands-off approach to your stay.
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Perhaps the most widely recognized university for Americans to study in Egypt is The American University in Cairo (AUC). Originally located in the heart of downtown Cairo, the new campus is a high-tech, sleek learning complex located in the suburb of Heliopolis. The American University offers language courses in Modern Standard, Colloquial ('Ameya) and Qur'anic Arabic. While studying at AUC, you have the option of living in the dormitories or living in an apartment in the suburbs of Cairo. The advantage to living in the dorms is the close proximity of the campus and access to other students for study and other activities. Living in the suburbs also has its advantages, not the least of which is constant daily practice in Arabic.
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Alexandria University is located in the lovely sea port city of Alexandria. Established by the King of Egypt in 1942, Alexandria University offers a more Mediterranean experience to studying Arabic. The weather tends to be cooler in the summer and more rainy in the winter than in Cairo. Alexandria University also offers courses in Modern Standard, 'Ameya and Qur'anic Arabic.
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Ain al Shams University in Cairo was established in 1950 and is one of Cairo's largest universities. Located near Cairo's more affluent neighborhoods, the university also offers all three types of Arabic to its students. Ain al Shams is a public university supported directly by the Egyptian government.
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Several other universities also exist in Egypt, with most located in and around Cairo. Cairo University is another public university, while Al Azhar University is a private university reserved for those who are interested in Qur'anic studies. As with most universities, Al Azhar and Cairo University have scholarships available to attract foreign students, but most classes will be conducted in Arabic, so while the proficient speakers will only get better, novice learners should apply to the other universities mentioned above.
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Before studying in Egypt, you should accomplish some other goals. First, apply early to the universities because you will need their acceptance before applying for your visa. Second, apply for your visa as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. Follow the instructions that accompany your acceptance letter for the best results with your visa. Finally, secure funding and have your bank account set up to receive these aid checks via direct deposit.
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