Cairo University, established in 1908 as the Egyptian University, holds the distinction of being Egypt’s oldest and largest public university. Situated in Giza, Greater Cairo, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of Egypt and the wider Arab world for over a century. Renowned for its comprehensive academic offerings and commitment to research, Cairo University attracts a diverse student body, including international scholars. This guide explores the university’s history, academic programs, staff information, contact details, and potential scholarship opportunities for international students.  

A Century of Intellectual Leadership: The History of Cairo University

Cairo University’s foundation marked a significant milestone in the development of modern education in Egypt.

• Establishment: Initially named the Egyptian University, Cairo University was inaugurated on December 21, 1908. The initiative was spearheaded by prominent Egyptian intellectuals and aimed to provide advanced education to Egyptians.  
• Early Growth and Evolution: The university initially comprised faculties of Arts, Law, Medicine, and Science. Over time, it expanded significantly, adding numerous other faculties and research institutes to cater to the growing educational needs of the nation.  
• Name Changes and National Significance: The university was renamed Fuad University in 1936 in honor of King Fuad I. Following the Egyptian Revolution in 1952, it adopted its current name, Cairo University, in 1953, symbolizing its national identity and its role as a leading public institution.
• Impact and Legacy: Cairo University has produced countless influential graduates who have made significant contributions to various fields in Egypt and across the globe. It remains a symbol of academic excellence and a hub for intellectual discourse.  

Academic Programs: A Comprehensive Spectrum of Knowledge

Cairo University offers an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its diverse faculties and institutes:  

• Humanities and Social Sciences: Including Arts, Law, Commerce, Economics and Political Science, Mass Communication, Archaeology, Education, Social Work, and more.  
• Sciences: Encompassing faculties of Science, Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing, and others.
• Engineering and Technology: Offering programs in Engineering, Computer and Information Science, Urban and Regional Planning, and related fields.  
• Medicine and Health Sciences: Including the Faculty of Medicine (Kasr Al-Ainy), Dentistry, Physical Therapy, and specialized institutes.  

The university is committed to providing quality education in Arabic, with some programs offered in other languages, particularly at the postgraduate level or in collaboration with international institutions.  

Staff Information: A Dedicated Community of Scholars and Educators

Cairo University boasts a large and dedicated faculty comprising professors, researchers, and teaching assistants across its numerous departments. These academics are committed to advancing knowledge through teaching and research, contributing to the university’s standing as a leading research institution in the region.  

Contact Information: Connecting with Cairo University

• Address: Cairo University, Gamaa St., Orman, Giza, Cairo Governorate 12613, Egypt.  
• Phone (Main): (+202) 35676100
• Website: https://cu.edu.eg/
• Website (for Postgraduate Studies – Procedures for Foreign Students): https://cu.edu.eg/page.php?pg=contentFront/SubSectionData.php&SubSectionId=18

Scholarships at Cairo University: Opportunities for Academic Pursuits, Including International Students

Cairo University offers various scholarship opportunities, although specific comprehensive programs dedicated solely to undergraduate international students might be limited and less widely publicized than those at private universities. However, international students can explore the following avenues:

• Merit-Based Scholarships: Outstanding academic performance may qualify international students for partial or full tuition waivers. Inquire with the specific faculty of interest about any merit-based awards available to international applicants.
• Postgraduate Scholarships and Research Grants: International students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees should explore funding opportunities within their specific faculty or through the university’s research centers. Direct contact with the relevant department is crucial.
• Bilateral Agreements and Cultural Exchange Programs: Cairo University often has collaborations with universities and governments worldwide. These agreements may include provisions for student exchange and scholarships for students from partner institutions. Check with your home country’s educational authorities and the international relations office at Cairo University.  
• External Scholarship Opportunities: Numerous international organizations and foundations offer scholarships for students from developing countries to study in Egypt.
• Egyptian Government Scholarships: The Egyptian government sometimes offers scholarships to students from specific countries to study at Egyptian public universities, including Cairo University. Inquire with the Egyptian embassy or cultural mission in your home country about such programs.  

How International Students Can Explore Scholarship Options at Cairo University:

1. Visit the Official Cairo University Website: While a dedicated “International Scholarships” section might not be prominent, explore the “Admissions” and “Postgraduate Studies” sections for any mentions of financial aid for international students.
2. Contact the Relevant Faculty Directly: The most effective approach is to contact the specific faculty you are interested in (e.g., Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Arts) and inquire about any scholarship or financial aid opportunities available for international students in your field of study.
3. Contact the International Relations Office: Cairo University likely has an international relations office that can provide information on exchange programs and potential scholarships for international students. Look for their contact details on the university website.  
5. Explore External Scholarship Databases: Utilize online scholarship search engines and databases that list scholarships for international students, filtering by country of study (Egypt).
6. Check with Your Home Country’s Scholarship Agencies: Your home country’s government or educational ministries may offer scholarships for studying abroad.

Conclusion:

Cairo University, with its rich history and comprehensive While dedicated university-wide scholarships for international undergraduates might be limited, exploring faculty-specific funding, postgraduate opportunities, bilateral agreements, and external scholarships can provide avenues for financial support. Proactive engagement with the university’s faculties and international relations office is key for international students seeking to study at this esteemed institution.