🎓 How I Went to University Without a Student Loan (Riba-Free)

Back in 2010, I applied for university and received several offers — I eventually chose City University London. Coming from an Asian background, higher education carried a lot of weight, and the family pressure to attend was strong.

However, student finance in the UK involves riba (interest), which is impermissible in Islam. Despite the excitement of getting in, I made a clear decision: if attending university meant taking a riba-based loan, then I would not go.

While looking for alternative funding, I came across the Sir John Cass’s Foundation Lord Mayor’s Scholarship Programme — a scholarship offering £7,000 per academic year to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

By the grace of Allah, I was accepted into the programme and Alhamdulilah, I was able to complete my degree without involving myself in riba.

It serves as a reminder that staying within the boundaries set by Allah — even when it's difficult — can lead to unexpected ease and provision through His mercy.

As Allah says in the Qur’an:

وَمَن يَتَّقِ ٱللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّهُۥ مَخْرَجًۭا

وَيَرْزُقْهُ مِنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَحْتَسِبُ

“And whoever fears Allah – He will make for him a way out.

And will provide for him from where he does not expect.”

(Surah At-Talaq 65:2–3)

📌 A reminder that seeking the halal — even when it requires sacrifice — is never without reward.

Have you come across a moment where choosing what’s right led to an outcome you never expected? Feel free to share your reflections below 👇

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