Question

A few years ago, when I was a poorly practicing Muslim, I lied during the interview stages to get a place at university. I regret my mistakes a lot now but as far as I am aware my job which I get using this degree would still be Halal (please correct me if I am wrong). However, my concern is that my university provides money support to students from low income households to help cover the costs of education. Would this money now be haram to take considering I got the place at university through lying and cheating.

Answer

The money you make from your job will be lawful as you are being paid for the services you are carrying out. You must however repent for lying and deceiving in the interview.

If based on your household income you are entitled to the grant then it would be permissible for you to take the grant and use it to help pay your fees. The reason for this is that the grant and admission into the university are two independent issues. Hence, even though you lied to get into university, once enrolled, you were legitimately entitled to the grant, provided you did not lie about your household income.

Answered by:
Ifta Research Fellow

Checked & Approved by:
Mufti Abdul Rahman Mangera
Mufti Zubair Patel