Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Do you have time to spare? Of course, you do! In fact, as someone who once taught Project Management, I’ve learned—and taught—that time is something we can always make. Sure, external factors and personal emergencies can get in the way, but the idea of “time management” is often just about priorities. And if you’re reading this, chances are you’re already connected to the internet, which means you have access to a wealth of knowledge—especially about your Deen.

For many of us, especially women, planning and organizing start early. As young girls, we discover the joy of journaling or keeping diaries. As we grow older, we upgrade to planners, meticulously choosing them in all shapes and colors from bookstores. And now, with technology, we have apps that make planning even easier. With all these tools at our fingertips, there’s no excuse not to carve out time for learning—whether it’s 30 minutes a day or a few hours on weekdays. Especially when the courses are online and, in many cases, free.

When I first embraced Islam in 2012, my journey was largely self-directed. I relied on research, mentorship, and the support of Muslim sisters and the Islamic Centre. Like many reverts, I often felt left out, as if I’d missed out on the foundational knowledge that born Muslims gain from childhood. But over time, my hunger to learn grew. I listened to khutbahs by Mufti Ismail Menk and Nouman Ali Khan during commutes, subscribed to Islamic Facebook pages, and engaged in long discussions with my mentor (who is now my husband). The more I learned, the more I wanted to understand—not just for myself, but to share with others.

For reverts, the journey of learning Islam is often intense and emotional. It’s like a new relationship—sometimes romanticized, sometimes trivialized, but always deeply personal. There are moments of confusion and moments of pure joy. It’s a path of self-discovery, and it’s anything but boring.

On the other hand, for some born Muslims, the relationship with Islam can feel like an old marriage—comfortable but sometimes taken for granted. It’s not always easy to maintain the same level of enthusiasm and curiosity. But whether you’re a revert or a born Muslim, I believe that deepening your understanding of Islam—both personally and academically—can reignite that spark and strengthen your connection to the Deen.

Why? Because there’s something incredibly fulfilling about achieving a goal, especially when it comes to knowledge. And when that knowledge is about your faith, it’s even more rewarding. Plus, when the opportunity to learn is free and online, there’s really no excuse not to take advantage of it.

Islamic Online University: A Game-Changer

A few weeks ago, I decided to finally explore the Islamic Online University (IOU), a platform I’d heard about from friends but never fully investigated. At first, I thought it only offered degree programs, which felt overwhelming. But then I discovered they also have free programs, including a New Muslim Certificate (NMC) and a Diploma in Islamic Studies. That’s when I thought, Hey, I can do this.

And the best part? It’s completely free.

So, I signed up. The website is user-friendly and straightforward—no confusing navigation or hidden fees. The team behind IOU has clearly put a lot of effort into making it accessible, Masha’Allah. Here’s a quick rundown of how it works:

1. Register: Fill out the form with your details. Be accurate and serious—it’s an educational institute, after all.
2. Choose Your Program: IOU offers two free programs—the New Muslim Certificate and the Diploma in Islamic Studies. Each program is divided into courses and modules (think of courses as subjects and modules as chapters).
3. Enroll: Once you’ve chosen your program, click “Enroll” and start learning. The modules are available in text, audio, and video formats, so you can choose what works best for you.
4. Complete Quizzes and Exams: Each module ends with a quiz, and there’s a final exam at the end of the course. Yes, it’s timed, but it’s all online.
5. Get Your Certificate: Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive a PDF certificate. You can also request a hard copy for a small fee.

IOU even has a mobile app, so you can learn on the go. They’ve really thought of everything.

My Personal Journey with IOU

Here’s a glimpse of the programs I’ve enrolled in:

New Muslim Certificate (NMC)

• NMC 101: The First Day
  Topics include: Your Conversion to Islam, Ablution (Wudu), Prayer (Salah), Major Muharramat, and more.
• NMC 102: The First Week
  Topics include: Introduction to Salah, Muslim Character, Eating Etiquette, and Moral Principles Behind the Pillars of Islam.

Diploma in Islamic Studies

• Level 1: Foundations of Islamic Studies, Fiqh of Tahaarah, Arabic Reading and Writing.
• Level 2: Aqeedah At-Tawheed, Fiqh of Formal Prayer, Usool at-Tafseer.
• Level 3: Fiqh of Fasting, Uloom al-Qur’an, An Nawawi’s 40 Hadith.
• Level 4: Fiqh of Zakaah, Da’wah Training, Fiqh of Marriage.
• Level 5: Fiqh of Hajj, Nullifiers of Islam, Funeral Rites in Islam.
• Level 6: Leadership Lessons from the Life of Rasoolullah (s), Qur’anic Arabic.

I’ve already completed the New Muslim Certificate and received my PDF certificate. It’s a small achievement, but it’s incredibly motivating. Now, I’m working through the Diploma in Islamic Studies and considering pursuing a degree—either a B.A. in Islamic Studies or a B.Sci. in Psychology. Both align with my goals of sharing Islam through writing and applying Islamic principles in my career and personal life.

Why This Matters

For reverts, online Islamic studies are a lifeline. They provide authentic guidance in a private, flexible format, which is especially helpful if you’re navigating complicated family dynamics or living in a non-Muslim country. For born Muslims, these programs offer a chance to deepen your understanding of Islam beyond the basics you may have learned at home or in your community.

Of course, this isn’t for everyone. If you don’t have internet access, a computer, or basic English skills, it might not be feasible. But for those who do, it’s an incredible opportunity. IOU also offers paid degree and master’s programs for those who want to take their studies further, whether for personal growth, da’wah, or career advancement.

The institute is funded by donations and affordable semester fees (less than $1,000 for most programs). It’s a small price to pay for such valuable knowledge.

A Personal Note

I’m currently enrolled in the Diploma in Islamic Studies and loving every moment of it. But I’m at a crossroads: should I pursue a B.A. in Islamic Studies or a B.Sci. in Psychology? Both would help me in my mission to share Islam through writing and apply Islamic principles in my career and home life. I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice as I make this decision.

In the meantime, I encourage you to check out IOU. Whether you’re a revert, a born Muslim, or simply someone looking to deepen your faith, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s make time for knowledge—because, as I’ve learned, we can always make time.

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.