How it works

A clear path, one step at a time

Getting started is simple. Here is what happens after you enquire, and what you can expect from us along the way.

1
Enquire
Tell us about the student, their subjects and the universities they are considering, and which kind of support interests them. It only takes a few minutes and there is no commitment. We aim to reply within 2 working days. Booking a workshop? You can book and pay directly from the workshop page, with no call needed.
2
Initial conversation
We arrange a free 15 to 30 minute phone or video call with the student and, for under-18s, a parent or guardian. We talk about the student's goals and the support they need, explain the relevant programme, and make sure Shajara is the right fit. For the Access Programme, we also review eligibility for a funded place.
3
Your place
We recommend mentorship, the Access Programme or workshops, and confirm the package or place. Payment is made securely online through Stripe, with instalments available for larger programmes. Students offered a funded place do not pay.
4
Onboarding and support
Once a place is confirmed, the student and a parent or guardian complete a short onboarding form, including consent and safeguarding details. Where relevant, we match the student with a mentor from our network of Oxford and Cambridge students and alumni. Sessions then begin, and parents receive regular progress updates.

For parents

What parents can expect

We know parents are usually the ones making the decision. Here is what we commit to.

Clear communication
You will know who is working with your child and what they are working on. Email is our default channel, and we aim to reply within 2 working days.
Regular updates
Parents and guardians receive regular progress updates, plus extra contact if there is a concern or an important application milestone, rather than constant messaging.
Safeguarding first
Sessions run on Zoom or Google Meet. Any WhatsApp contact happens in a group with the student, a parent or guardian, the mentor and Shajara, never privately.
Clear costs
We confirm the package and cost before you commit, with no hidden extras. Instalments are available for larger programmes, and there are no automatic subscriptions.
Respect for faith and family
Our programmes are built around the experiences of Muslim students and families, and affirm students' identity as well as their ambitions.
Honest advice
We give realistic, practical guidance. No one can guarantee a university place, but we help students put forward the strongest application they can.

Send us a short enquiry and we will be in touch within 2 working days to arrange a free initial conversation.