The First University in the World: Rankings & History

University of Al Quaraouiyine

The University of Al Quaraouiyine, recognized as the first university in the world, became part of Morocco’s public university system in 1963. It focuses on Islamic religious and legal studies, with an emphasis on Maliki law and Classical Arabic grammar. Open to both men and women, the university was originally established as a madrasa—a unique type of religious school dedicated to Islamic studies. Read on to discover more about this historic institution.

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Who Founded the First University in the World?

Founder and Establishment:

• The first university in the world was established in Fez, Morocco, in 859 A.D. by Fatima al-Fihri, a Tunisian-born Muslim woman. She used her inheritance from her merchant father to found the institution.

Significance:

• This university is not only the oldest higher education institution globally but also the first to be founded by a woman, showcasing Fatima’s visionary leadership.

Origins and Evolution:

• Initially started as a madrasa, it combined a school, mosque, and affiliated educational center.
• It introduced a system for awarding degrees in subjects like rhetoric, grammar, and religious studies.

Fields of Study:

• The university began with a focus on religious education.
• It later expanded into various disciplines, including logic, medicine, mathematics, and astronomy, becoming a comprehensive center of knowledge.

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History of Al-Qarawiyyin University

• Founding by Fatima al-Fihri: Al-Qarawiyyin University was founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, Mohammed Al-Fihri. She also established a madrasa, or related school, alongside the university.
• Family Background: Fatima’s family moved to Fez from Kairouan, Tunisia, in the early 9th century, where they became part of a group of migrants from Kairouan. The mosque’s name reflects its Tunisian roots.
• Fatima’s Vision: Fatima and her sister Mariam received significant inheritances from their father. Fatima chose to use her inheritance to build a mosque and madrasa to serve her community.
• Madrasa as a University: Although initially a madrasa, Al-Qarawiyyin is regarded as the world’s first university. It has often been compared to Al-Azhar in Cairo. Some scholars believe that Islamic educational institutions, like Al-Qarawiyyin, may have influenced the development of European medieval universities.

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Why Study at Al Quaraouiyine University?

Here’s why you should pursue education at Al Quaraouiyine:

• Rich Historical Legacy: Established in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri, Al-Qarawiyyin is recognized as the first university in the world by UNESCO and Guinness World Records. It has been continuously operating for over a millennium, making it the oldest educational institution globally.
• Academic Excellence: Al-Qarawiyyin’s curriculum focuses on Islamic religious and legal sciences, with a strong emphasis on Maliki law and classical Arabic grammar. In addition to Islamic studies, students can explore other disciplines, such as French, English, and IT, offering a well-rounded education.
• Traditional Teaching Method: The university follows a unique teaching method, where students gather in a semicircle around a sheik. This traditional approach encourages active learning through reading, discussions, and quizzes, ensuring a deep understanding of complex subjects.
• Cultural and Intellectual Hub: Al-Qarawiyyin has long been a center for scholars from around the world. It has played a crucial role in preserving and sharing knowledge. Notable alumni like historian Ibn Khaldun have shaped fields like social sciences, adding to the university’s global academic influence.

Studying at Al-Qarawiyyin offers an opportunity to be part of a prestigious institution with a legacy of academic excellence and intellectual diversity.

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Ranking

Ranking of the First University in the World (EduRank):

• Worldwide: Ranked 9,384 out of 14,131 universities
• Africa: Ranked 439 out of 1,104 universities
• Morocco: Ranked 17 out of 38 universities
• Fez: Ranked 2 out of 5 universities

Student Life at Al Quaraouiyine University

Student life at Al Quaraouiyine University is a blend of academic excellence and personal growth, empowering students to achieve their goals and thrive in a diverse environment.

1. Boost Your Self-Esteem
   Engaging in extracurricular activities outside the classroom helps build self-confidence. These activities offer students a chance to showcase their talents and unique contributions to society, bringing a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction beyond academic success.
2. Expand Your Social Network
   Co-curricular activities are a great way to meet new people and develop social skills. By interacting with peers who share your interests in culture, language, and religion, you can build lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.
3. Build Your Portfolio
   Leadership experiences gained through college activities can be valuable for future job opportunities. Whether you’re organizing events or collaborating on projects, documenting your achievements allows you to showcase your skills to potential employers.
4. Enjoy and De-stress
   Extracurricular activities also provide a break from academic pressures. Engaging in fun and fulfilling activities can help students relax and recharge, making it easier to manage stress during exams or tight deadlines.
5. Embrace Cultural Diversity
   Al-Qarawiyyin University fosters a multicultural environment, both inside and outside the classroom. Students can participate in local, national, and international events, giving them the chance to learn about different cultures and gain valuable experiences for life in a diverse world.

Student life at Al Quaraouiyine University is more than just academics—it’s about building character, creating connections, and embracing a world of opportunities.

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Tuition Fees

BA, Arabic Literature, and Islamic Studies

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Key Takeaways

• Founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 A.D. in Fez, Morocco, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest university in the world, established by a Muslim woman.
• In 1963, it was integrated into Morocco’s current public university system.
• Recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continuously operating educational institution, Al-Qarawiyyin is often referred to as the first university in the world.
• According to EduRank, the university holds the 9th position in Morocco’s university rankings.

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FAQs

Ques 1: Which is Asia’s first university?

Answer 1: Asia’s first university is the University of Santo Tomas (UST), established by Bishop Miguel de Benavides, O.P., the third Archbishop of Manila. Founded on July 24, 1605, UST was fully established on April 28, 1611, making it the oldest university in Asia.

Ques 2: Which is the number one university?

Answer 2: The number one university in the 2025 QS World University Rankings is the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Ques 3: Which country is rich in studies?

Answer 3: Countries like the United Nations, the United Kingdom, and Canada are rich in education.

WRITTEN BY

Aastha

Study Abroad Expert

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