Al-Imtihān al-Sanawī Annual Examinations

Process

Aljamea's examinations signify much more than a mere test of aptitude and learning

They are a source of pride and motivation for students because they take place in the august presence of His Holiness as well as thousands of community members.

Zikra - An address by
Syedna

Continuing the legacy of his respected forefathers, His Holiness Dr Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS personally conducts and oversees the annual exams of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah. The exams commence with an address by His Holiness that sets the theme and tone for the examinations. This khutba, or discourse, commemorates the memory of Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA and Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin’s RA tireless endeavours for Aljamea.

The late His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA is seen here conducting the Zikra khutba in the Great Masjid of Surat, al-Masjid al-Muʿazzam.

Oral Examinations

Aljamea's examinations signify much more than a mere test of aptitude and learning. They are a source of pride and motivation for students because they take place in the august presence of His Holiness as well as thousands of community members. He personally presides over the oral examinations of students from classes seven through eleven. Throughout the year, students study a series of epistles composed by His Holiness Dr Syedna Taher Saifuddin RA, His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin RA and His Holiness Dr Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS. During the oral examinations, they are questioned regarding a variety of topics from these epistles and asked to relate their answers to contemporary issues, modern disciplines and real world applications. Content, oratory and poise are key components of this distinct form of assessment. The audience benefit from the volley of questions and answers, especially from the intermittent articulations made by the rectors. Often His Holiness personally poses questions and addresses the gathering.

Process

Written Examinations

A brief introduction booklet is provided to students which, in light of the Zikra discourse, elaborates on the theme of the examinations and provides avenues for student reflection and introspection. This introduction helps students comprehend the depth of the questions asked and adds focus and relevancy to their answers. Prior to them taking place, all question papers for the written examinations are presented to His Holiness for his approval. There are a total of nine written papers which cover the various subjects taught in Aljamea. In addition, students at stage four have one more exam on the subject of their specialisation. Questions stress the application of learning and critical thinking skills.

Legacy of learning

Grading and marks

Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah utilises a number/percentage grading system and credits its courses according to their import in the academy’s annual final examinations, al-Imtihān al-Sanawi.

The credits also represent the estimated hours of study contributed to that particular subject by the student; one credit equalling forty hours of study. In the first few years students have to accumulate at least 40 credits per year with the number of credits required increasing as the years progress.

The table demonstrates the estimated equivalencies of Aljamea-tus-Saifiyah’s number grades to the letter-grading system.

(For the most recent grading criteria please contact the Aljamea Head Office in Mumbai)