A basic right and a dominant factor behind economic growth is education. Nonetheless, for many people, the expense of higher education can be a considerable barrier to entry. In Jordan, where higher education is highly valued, many may wonder whether a college education is free.
Is College Free In Jordan?
In this article, we will explore the state of higher education in Jordan and whether a college education is free, as well as government policies and initiatives aimed at increasing access to higher education.
No, college is not free in Jordan. Students are required to pay tuition fees to attend university.
The Cost of College Education in Jordan
While primary education is free in Jordan, a college education is not. Depending on the institution and program, different colleges in Jordan have different tuition prices. Tuition fees for public universities are significantly lower than those of private universities, but they still require a significant financial investment.
For example, at the University of Jordan, the largest and oldest public university in the country, the annual tuition fee for an undergraduate program ranges from 500 to 2000 Jordanian dinars (JD). This translates to approximately $700 to USD 2800 per year. For graduate programs, tuition fees range from 2000 to 2500 JD per year (approximately $2800 to USD 3500).
On the other hand, tuition fees at private universities in Jordan are significantly higher, ranging from 3000 to 8000 JD per year (approximately $4200 to USD 11,200). This makes private universities out of reach for many Jordanians who cannot afford the high tuition fees.
Apart from tuition fees, college education in Jordan also involves other costs, such as textbooks, transportation, and housing. Textbook costs can vary depending on the program and university, but they typically range from 500 to 1000 JD per year (approximately $700 to USD 1400). Also, the expense of transportation can add up, particularly for students who have a long commute to school. Finally, housing costs can be significant, especially for students who choose to live on campus or in the capital city, Amman.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Given the high costs associated with a college education in Jordan, many students rely on financial aid and scholarships to finance their education. Depending on their financial need and academic success, the Jordanian government awards financial help to students. The aid can cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other expenses. Students can apply for financial aid through their university’s financial aid office or the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.
Apart from government aid, several private organizations offer scholarships to Jordanian students. For example, the Al Ghurair Foundation for Education offers scholarships to Arab students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in various fields. The scholarships pay for living costs, tuition, and other costs. Similarly, the King Abdullah II Fund for Development provides scholarships to Jordanian students studying in Jordan and abroad.
Government Policies and Initiatives
The Jordanian government has taken various measures to promote access to higher education, recognizing its importance for economic growth and social development. The National Higher Education Strategic Plan, launched in 2017, is aimed at improving the quality of higher education and increasing enrollment rates.
The government has also established new private universities and expanded the capacity of public universities. Financial aid and scholarships are available to help students finance their education. Furthermore, the government has implemented programs to improve access to education for underserved communities and increase the participation of women in higher education.
Although challenges remain, such as limited capacity in public universities, the government’s commitment to improving education bodes well for the future of higher education in Jordan.
How to apply for Government Policies and Initiatives?
The application process for government policies and initiatives aimed at increasing access to higher education in Jordan varies depending on the specific program. However, some general steps that may be required include:
- Research: First, research the specific program or initiative you are interested in to learn about the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.
- Prepare your application: Once you have identified a program or initiative that you are eligible for, prepare your application materials, which may include transcripts, test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation.
- Submit your application: Follow the instructions provided by the program or initiative to submit your application. This may involve submitting your application online, mailing it in a paper application, or submitting your application in person.
- Follow up: After you have submitted your application, follow up with the program or initiative to confirm that it has been received and to check on the status of your application.
It is important to note that some government policies and initiatives aimed at increasing access to higher education in Jordan may have limited funding or capacity, so it is important to apply early and ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria.
The Bottom Line
A college education is not free in Jordan, but the government has implemented several initiatives to increase access to higher education and provide financial aid to students. While challenges remain, such as limited capacity in public universities, the commitment to improving education and increasing enrollment rates bodes well for the future. By investing in higher education, Jordan can continue to develop a well-educated workforce and compete in the global economy.
