B.A. in Middle Eastern and North African Studies

Entry Requirements for International Students

1. Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

A B.A. in Middle Eastern and North African Studies from the University of Arizona provides graduates with a versatile skill set, linguistic proficiency, and a deep cultural understanding that positions them for diverse and impactful careers in fields related to international relations, diplomacy, journalism, education, and cultural exchange. The program equips individuals to navigate the complexities of the region and contribute to positive global engagements.

1. Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as diplomats or foreign service officers, representing their country's interests in Middle Eastern and North African countries. They may work in embassies, consulates, and international organizations, addressing diplomatic relations, policy analysis, and cultural exchange.

2. International Relations Specialist: With a deep understanding of the region's socio-political dynamics, graduates can become international relations specialists. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations, contributing to the development of policies and initiatives related to the Middle East and North Africa.

3. Language Instructor/Translator: Proficiency in Arabic or another language spoken in the region opens up opportunities for graduates to become language instructors or translators. They may work in educational institutions, language schools, or provide translation services for businesses, government agencies, or media organizations.

4. Journalist/Correspondent: Graduates can pursue careers in journalism or become correspondents, reporting on events, issues, and developments in the Middle East and North Africa. They may work for news outlets, international publications, or contribute to media coverage that promotes a nuanced understanding of the region.

5. Cultural Liaison Officer: In the corporate sector or government agencies, graduates can work as cultural liaison officers, facilitating effective communication and understanding between organizations and entities in the Middle East and North Africa. This role may involve managing cross-cultural projects, organizing events, and fostering positive relations.

6. Policy Analyst for NGOs: Graduates can work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as policy analysts, addressing humanitarian, social, and political issues in the region. They may focus on areas such as human rights, refugees, development, and healthcare, contributing to impactful policy changes.

7. Security Analyst/Consultant: Understanding the geopolitical complexities of the Middle East and North Africa, graduates can pursue careers as security analysts or consultants. They may work for government agencies, private security firms, or research institutions, analyzing security challenges and providing recommendations.

8. Educator/Researcher: Graduates can enter the field of education as educators or researchers, teaching about the Middle East and North Africa in schools, colleges, or research institutions. They may contribute to academic research, curriculum development, and cultural exchange programs.

9. Business and Trade Specialist: With the global importance of the region, graduates can work as business and trade specialists, facilitating economic relationships between businesses in the Middle East and North Africa and organizations globally. They may work in international trade, business development, or economic consulting.

10. Humanitarian Aid Worker: For those interested in humanitarian work, graduates can become aid workers, contributing to relief efforts in conflict zones or areas affected by natural disasters in the Middle East and North Africa. They may work for international organizations or NGOs dedicated to humanitarian causes.

11. Cultural Program Coordinator: Graduates can work as cultural program coordinators, organizing events, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives that promote understanding and appreciation of Middle Eastern and North African cultures. They may collaborate with museums, cultural institutions, or community organizations.