International Language Institute


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FAQs

How long has ILI been teaching Arabic?

Since 1975 – that's thirty five years!!!!!!!

How many students are there in a class?

The minimum number of students required to open a class is usually three. It is possible to follow a course with fewer than 3 students. However, in this case the direct teaching hours would be reduced. Our maximum class size is 16 students. When the number of participants exceeds that figure we split the group into two classes.

What are the course timetables?

Lessons are usually held daily from Monday to Thursday at the following times:

Colloquial Arabic: 9.00 am - 11.00 am
Media Arabic: 9.00 am - 11.00 am
Modern Standard Arabic: 11.30 am - 2.30 pm
Pre-Modern Standard Arabic: 11.30 am - 2.00 pm
Calligraphy*: 2.45 pm - 3.45 pm

Is it possible to study at ILI for a year?

We'd love you to! New courses begin every 4 weeks. You can take as many of these as you like.

Can I join a course after the mid-point?

In the interests of your progress in Arabic and the progress of other students in the group, this is not possible. However, you can register for the next course.

How many levels are there?

There are 10 levels of both ECA & MSA. These range from Beginner to Advanced.

How do I confirm my current level of Arabic?

You take a written placement test (MSA) or an oral placement test (ECA) lasting (or both!) on the first day of the course (usually Sunday). Placement tests can be taken between 10.00 am & 1.00 pm.

Do you teach the Quran?

No, we are a secular language school. However, learning Arabic will certainly help you in your Quranic studies.

If I want to have the airport service, how will I know the person meeting me?

Our airport representative will be waiting for you when you enter the arrivals hall (after obtaining your visa, luggage and clearing customs). He should be waiting with your name written on a sign that shows the ILI logo.

Can you arrange for me to live with an Egyptian family?

Unfortunately, this is not a service we offer.

How much is accommodation likely to cost?

We advise all students to stay at a hotel for the first few days. During this period, we can refer you to a real estate agent who will provide help in finding an apartment to rent. The rent for a room at the ILI External Residence is €460 for 4 weeks/person (3 sharing); you need to be prepared to pay a one-month refundable deposit as well as utilities. The Internal residence fee for a single room is € 400, plus utilities for the same period.

How much will it cost to live in Cairo?

Allow about €250 per month (excluding rent & tuition) to live reasonably.

Where is the ILI located?

In EL SAHAFEYEEN across the bridge from ZAMALEK, about 15 minutes by car from Central Cairo.

Can I get a scholarship from ILI?

Absolutely! Applicants should meet the following criteria:

Students majoring in Arabic or Middle Eastern Studies
First- or second-year undergraduates only
Students with an excellent record of both academic achievement and attendance as confirmed by their university tutor's written recommendation.

Please see Scholarships Link for detailed information.

How can I renew my one-month tourist visa?

For most nationalities it is a formality to get an extension of a one-month visa for 3 to 6 months. We will give you full advice when you get here. Bring at least 10 passport photos with you or have them taken immediately upon arriving in Cairo.

Should I bring anything special with me?

Bring any prescribed medicines you need to take. There are mosquitoes but NO malaria in Cairo. In winter bring warm clothes - it gets cold, especially at night. Everything else is available here.

Tuition fees

In order to confirm your place a deposit of 50 Pounds Sterling is required. For students already resident in Cairo, payment can be made in cash at ILI. For study abroad students, online payment is possible via Google Check-Out. It is a safe system and you will be notified of the transfer. Alternatively, payment can also be made by bank transfer. According to ILI policies, deposit payments are non-refundable.
We recommend students to pay the balance of the tuition fees during registration at ILI, either in cash or by credit card. Even if you are planning to stay for a longer period, it will be best to pay fees on a course-by-course basis. This is because you might decide to change courses while progressing through the various levels.
Any payment that we receive from a student online other than the deposit, will be refunded in cases of cancellation. However, transfer charges will be deducted. Tuition fees will not be refunded after the course starts.