Cairo, October 2, 2024 — In line with its commitment to academic excellence and diversity, the American University in Cairo (AUC) has welcomed 290 students as part of the second cohort of its "Excellence Scholarship" program for the Fall 2024 semester. Launched last year, the program provides talented and high-achieving students—who have demonstrated excellence in academics or other fields—with the opportunity to enroll at AUC regardless of their financial circumstances. The program offers financial support covering between 20% and 100% of tuition fees.

This year's cohort, the largest since the program's inception, includes students from Egypt, Bahrain, Germany, Libya, Lithuania, Malaysia, Palestine, Syria, and Sudan. 

Dr. Ahmed Dallal, President of AUC, emphasized that the Excellence Scholarship is a vital part of the university's mission to provide a world-class education to students with exceptional academic potential who require financial assistance. "The program also aims to attract students with strong leadership abilities and diverse non-academic talents. This initiative reflects AUC's commitment to enhancing excellence in higher education globally and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to their communities."

The "Excellence Scholarship" is highly competitive and merit-based, with financial need considered. The number of opportunities available, the fields of study, required grades, and tuition coverage vary from year to year. Recipients are selected based on outstanding performance in one or more of six categories: academic excellence, international diversity, national education credentials, artistic, musical, and athletic talents, leadership skills, community service, and an interest in liberal arts disciplines. Additional qualities that demonstrate a student's potential for success at AUC are also considered.

Dr. Ahmed Abdel Meguid, Associate Provost for Enrollment Management, stated, "Our focus is to make AUC attractive and accessible to top students from Egypt and around the world. Now in its second year, the Excellence Scholarship program has enabled us to attract high achievers from diverse secondary education systems globally and in Egypt."

This year's cohort includes four top students from the Egyptian General Secondary Education system, in addition to many top achievers from international curricula, including the American Diploma, British IGCSE, French Baccalaureate, International Baccalaureate, and Canadian and German diplomas (Abitur).

Dr. Ehab Abdel-Rahman, AUC’s Provost, pointed out that the Excellence Scholarship is a cornerstone of AUC’s commitment to advancing higher education in Egypt. "By attracting and nurturing the brightest talents, we not only provide them access to a world-class education but also empower them to succeed in life. This scholarship helps shape the future leaders who will drive innovation, contribute to community development, support Egypt's development efforts, and enhance its global competitiveness."

The "Excellence Scholarship" is one of several scholarship programs at AUC, including those funded by the university and external donors. Last year, AUC allocated $45.5 million to scholarships and financial aid, with over 60% of AUC students receiving some form of aid. This includes approximately 1,500 students receiving full scholarships.