Can I pay someone's tuition with my zakat?
Yes, if the student is eligible. Many scholars say a student who is poor and studying something beneficial can receive zakat, since they can't work full-time while studying. Some schools require the zakat to be given to the student, who then pays the fees, rather than paid directly to the university. A student from a wealthy family doesn't qualify.
Eligible students
Zakat goes to the poor, the needy and debtors (Quran 9:60). Scholars have long said that a student devoted to beneficial study who can't earn enough counts as poor, even if they're healthy, because studying is a valid reason not to work full-time. Today this can apply to:
- students from low-income families,
- converts cut off from family support,
- refugee and international students in hardship,
- students at risk of dropping out over unpaid fees.
If the student's parents can afford to pay, they're not eligible. See Who can receive zakat?
Paying the school directly
- Hanafi view: zakat must become the recipient's property (tamlik). So give the money to the student, who then pays the school.
- Other views: many scholars allow paying a third party on the student's behalf, especially with their permission, just as zakat can be used to pay off a debtor's creditor.
A safe approach is to get the student's consent and either hand them the money or pay the school as their agent.
Student debt
A graduate struggling to repay a student loan may qualify as a debtor, but scholars are cautious when loans are long-term and the person earns a good salary. Interest-based loans raise their own issues; see Do I have to pay zakat if I have debt?
Islamic studies
Funding poor students of Islamic knowledge has a long history. Some scholars even include them under "the cause of Allah." Teaching beneficial knowledge is also a form of ongoing charity. See What is sadaqah jariyah?
- Poor students of beneficial knowledge can receive zakat.
- Wealthy families' children don't qualify.
- Hanafis require giving it to the student.
- Get the student's consent if paying a school.
People also ask
How do I choose a trustworthy charity for my zakat?
Look for a separate zakat fund, a clear zakat policy, audited accounts and eligible recipients. Here's a quick checklist.
Read the full answer →Do I have to tell the person it's zakat?
No. Your intention is what counts, so you can give it quietly or as a gift. Just make sure they're eligible.
Read the full answer →Can I give zakat to a GoFundMe campaign?
Yes, if the person qualifies, like someone in debt or poverty. Check the need, fees and recipient first. Here's what to look for.
Read the full answer →Can I give zakat to a mosque?
Not for building or running costs, according to most scholars. You can give it to a mosque's zakat fund for the poor.
Read the full answer →Should I give zakat locally or abroad?
Local is preferred, but most scholars allow sending zakat abroad for greater need or relatives. Many people split it.
Read the full answer →