The Ella Collins Institute

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Application for Admission | 2026–2027 Academic Year

Requirements:

College degree or equivalent

Fees:

$1000 per month. (Limited scholarships available)

Why This Matters?

Ella Little-Collins (1914–1996) was the sister of Malcolm X, a committed Muslim, educator, and community leader who helped shape the future of Islam in America. She brought Malcolm to Boston, supported his pilgrimage to Mecca, and carried his mission forward with dignity and strength. She believed in knowledge, independence, and service.

Her legacy lives on through this Institute.

As you fill out this application, think of Ella—not only who she was, but what she stood for. By applying, you’re stepping into that legacy: a tradition of learning rooted in faith, committed to clarity, purpose, and service.

We are honored that her son, Yusuf Collins, serves on our board and continues the work his mother began.

About the Program:

The Ella Collins Institute offers a full-time foundational Islamic studies program designed to equip students with the essential tools to access and engage with the normative Islamic tradition.

This first-year cohort will take our introductory courses, covering the essential subjects required for entry into formal studies in the Islamic sciences. The curriculum is designed to strengthen Arabic literacy, introduce core theological concepts, and cultivate the discipline and perspective needed for deeper academic pursuit.

Location: Center DC, Washington, D.C.

Schedule: Sunday–Thursday | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

There is a possibility of night classes depending on interest.

Core Areas of Focus:

- Arabic Grammar & Morphology

- Tajwīd (Correct Qur’anic Recitation)

- Theology - Systematic & Applied

- Rules of Worship (Fiqh al-ʿIbādāt)

- Foundations of Personal Spiritual Growth

- Usul al-Fiqh

- Logic

- Hadith Sciences

- Tassawuf

- Arabic Speaking Lab

Program Enhancements:

- Guest seminars with scholars and professionals

- Practical ministerial training

- Community-based engagement projects

A Word of Caution

ECI is not a casual commitment. This program is rigorous, demanding, and designed for those who are genuinely called — students who seek to deepen their relationship with the faith and carry forward the tradition of Islamic scholarship with both knowledge and responsibility.

We are selective by design. We are looking for minds that are serious, hearts that are ready, and individuals who understand that enrolling here means showing up fully — not occasionally, not when it feels right, but consistently.

If you are in a transitional season emotionally or looking for a space to find yourself, this is not the right time. ECI is not a refuge from life's difficulties — it is a rigorous path of formation that requires you to bring your best, sustained self.

A seat here is not an enrollment. It is a covenant.

Application Form
1. Personal Information

Full Name *

Date of Birth *

Gender *

Phone *

Email Address *

Address

Street Address *

City *

State *

Country *

Postal Code *

Emergency Contact Name & Number:

2. Academic Background

Highest Level of Education Completed: *

Previous Islamic Studies (if any): (List schools/institutes attended, subjects studied, and teachers if applicable)

Arabic Proficiency: *

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

(Please describe your reading ability in Arabic) *

Tajwīd Proficiency: *

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

(Have you studied tajwīd formally? If yes, with whom?) *

3. Essay Questions
Please answer each in 100-200 words.

a. Why do you want to study at the Ella Collins Institute? *

b. What do you hope to contribute to your community after completing this program? *

c. How do you understand the relationship between Islamic knowledge and being an American Muslim today? *

If applying for one of the two available scholarships, please include a brief statement explaining your need.

4. Availability & Commitment

Are you able to attend in-person classes Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Center DC in Washington, D.C.? *

Yes

Are you willing to commit to the full academic year and complete all assignments, including practical training components? *

Yes

5. Additional Information

Do you have any special accommodations or needs we should be aware of? *

How did you hear about the Ella Collins Institute? *

Optional: Upload a resume or CV

6. References
Please list two individuals (teachers, community leaders, or mentors) who can speak to your character, commitment, or prior Islamic study. You must attach two reference letters from the individuals listed below to your application submission.

Reference 1

Name [Reference 1]

Relationship to Applicant [Reference 1]

Email Address [Reference 1]

Phone Number [Reference 1]

Reference Letter [Reference 1]

Reference 2

Name [Reference 2]

Relationship to Applicant [Reference 2]

Email Address [Reference 2]

Phone Number [Reference 2]

Reference Letter [Reference 2]

Tuition & Cost
Tuition: $100/month

Total Annual Cost: $12,000 (Paying Monthly) (Sept 2026 – May 2027)
If paid in full upfront $10,000

Full Payment Deadline: July 15th, 2026 - or the 1st of each month. Two months' payment must be made at the start of the first and second semesters.

Two partial scholarships are available based on financial need. Applicants must mention their interest in the scholarship in the essay section and may be asked to submit supporting documentation if selected for further consideration. A scholarship will require work for the institute in a capacity that best fits the student's talents.

Application Deadline: July 15th 2026