The GEAR Program will provide vital support and financial assistance to students from Gaza who are pursuing higher education. Recognizing the immense challenges these students face due to the destruction of Gaza, our aim is to alleviate student’s financial burdens and empower them to succeed academically.
If you are a student from Gaza who is currently enrolled in higher education please see the financial assistance you may apply for:
- Student Scholarships: Students may apply for a scholarship for tuition, university fees, and living expenses.
- Emergency Financial Assistance: Students may apply at any time. The GEAR Program is available to provide financial assistance to students that need immediate support to stay enrolled in school.
- ASAI Student Loans: 0% interest student loan repayable 6 months after graduation date.
To apply for GEAR Student Scholarships Program, please follow the instructions below:
1- Create a personal account on our Application Platform, begin the application process, and upload your information.
2- Required Documents: Prepare the following documents in clear copies to expedite the application process:
– Most Recent Photo | أحدث صورة شخصية
– Passport | جواز السفر
– Student Visa | تأشيرة الطالب (If studying outside your home country)
– National ID | بطاقة الهوية المدنية
– University ID | البطاقة الجامعية
– Recent University Grade Report | تقرير الدرجات الجامعية الأحدث
– Official Letter of University Enrollment | خطاب رسمي للالتحاق بالجامعة
– Previous University degrees | شهادات جامعية سابقة
– University Bank and Payment Information | معلومات الجامعة البنكية لاستلام الدفعات المالية
– Provide two professional or academic references.
The Faces Behind Our Mission
Hussam Qutub
Hussam Qutub, Vice President of the Board of Directors for Arab Student Aid International, has nearly 30 years of experience in business development, supporting US companies entering MENA markets. He has advised over 300 US companies and the Ohio State Government, specializing in trade agreements and export/import legislation. Hussam holds an MBA in International Business and Logistics and has studied Commercial Law.
Melissa Saul, PhD
Melissa has over 30 years of experience in higher education as a faculty member, researcher, and student services director. Her PhD focused on Palestinian education under occupation. Dedicated to equity and justice, she has secured numerous grants and led an educational delegation to Palestine. An Arab-American advocate, Melissa supports GEAR in fundraising and strategic planning to empower Palestinian youth.
Abd Basheer, PhD
Abd Bashir, originally from Deir al Balah in Gaza, holds a PhD from Washington State University. With over 15 years in program management, he’s the Learning and Development Program Manager at Carnival Cruise Line, fostering growth and a culture of learning. Known for his collaborative leadership, Abd is dedicated to supporting Gazan students’ higher education pursuits, aiming to create avenues for them to access quality education and unlock their potential.
Sahar Abuimara
Sahar Abu-Shawish is a board-certified infectious disease pharmacist with extensive experience. She holds a Pharmacy degree from Alazhar University and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Ohio Northern University. Currently working in two Toledo hospitals and volunteering at Halim Clinic, Sahar is dedicated to social justice and education, supporting GEAR’s mission to help Gaza’s students worldwide.
Lana Alagha, PhD
Dr. Lana Alagha, an Associate Professor at Missouri S&T in Mining & Nuclear Engineering, holds a PhD in Chemistry and Nanotechnology from the University of Texas at Dallas. With extensive postdoctoral experience in Canada, her research spans colloid science, synthetic chemistry, and clean coal technology. Dr. Alagha teaches mineral processing courses and is a member of SME and ACS, actively advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.
Sami Nassar
Sami Nasser, a Palestinian entrepreneur residing in California, is a dedicated advocate for Arab youth education. With a strong background in entrepreneurship, he actively supports initiatives that provide educational opportunities and resources for Arab students. Dr. Nasser’s commitment to empowering the next generation is evident through his efforts to create pathways for young people to achieve their academic and professional goals. His work focuses on fostering a brighter future for the Arab community by ensuring access to quality education and mentorship for Arab youth.
Ghazi Abuhakema, PhD
Ghazi Abuhakema, Associate Professor at the College of Charleston, co-founded GEAR to support Palestinian students in US universities. With a deep-rooted commitment to creating transformative opportunities, GEAR strives to ensure equal access to higher education for Palestinian refugees, fostering a future where education transcends boundaries and empowers individuals to realize their full potential.
