Men working in a girls'' school

Q: His Excellency the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in America invited the private sector to help in giving donations to the Saudi students who study at their own expense. These private companies included banks which deal in Riba (usury). Is it permissible for students to take study loans offered by these banks?

A: If it is known that this money comes from Riba, whether through a bank or otherwise, it is impermissible to accept it or make use of it, because dealing in Riba is prohibited in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. Allah says, (Part No. 12; Page No. 152) O you who believe! Eat not Ribâ (usury) (Surah Al-`Imran, 3: 130). The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) cursed the person who takes Riba, its payer, its two witnesses and its scribe. However, if it is not known that this money comes from Riba, i.e. Whether its owner deals in Riba or other forms of lawful transactions, it is Halal (lawful) to take it.And Allah knows best.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.