Wide-ranging opportunities to help students build their résumé, serve their community, and pay for education.
USEF believes in developing the next generation of Muslim leaders and community servants. Our scholarship programs reward service, academic commitment, and leadership while providing meaningful financial support to students across the Fresno area.
Scholarship recipients also gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and a deep connection to the community they serve.
Coordinators · $250 for assistants
One semester on a live community health study in Fresno, on a small team, alongside university researchers. What your team produces goes into both a peer-reviewed publication and a grant application.
$2,000 for Senior Fellow renewal
A 6-month service-based award for students committed to community welfare. Complete 250 hours of meaningful service and earn your fellowship upon completion.
$9,000 for Senior Scholar renewal
Named after the legendary West African Islamic scholar Nana Asmau bint Usman dan Fodio, this prestigious year-long scholarship recognizes outstanding students who lead community impact projects.
Nana Asmau bint Usman dan Fodio (1793–1864) was a West African princess, scholar, poet, and educator who became one of the most prolific Islamic scholars of her era. Despite living in 19th-century West Africa, she authored over 60 works in Arabic, Fulfulde, and Hausa.
Most remarkably, she trained a corps of women educators (called jajis) who traveled through villages teaching women who could not leave their homes, making Islamic knowledge accessible to all.
USEF named this scholarship in her honor to inspire scholars who carry that same spirit: learning deeply, serving broadly, and uplifting their communities.
"Knowledge is a shield and a sword. It protects the righteous and advances justice."
In the spirit of Nana Asmau bint Usman dan Fodio
There are two ways in. The Research Scholarship takes you straight onto a project team, and its application doubles as your volunteer interest form, so you do not need to volunteer first. The Wasila Fellowship begins with volunteering: sign up, complete your hours of service, and you are on the path to earning it. All students are welcome, and both are open to current and new volunteers.