Is it permissible to sit next to a girl in a mixed-gender classroom out of necessity for learning, or to sit next to a male student who is sitting next to a girl? And is it permissible to study in a mixed-gender library? And is it permissible to look at unveiled female teachers out of necessity for learning?
It is impermissible for a Muslim to study in mixed-gender educational institutions unless there is a necessity or a dire need, while observing the Sharia-compliant regulations. It is also impermissible to sit next to girls, as the library is like the study halls. The teaching of women to men or vice versa involves many Sharia-compliant prohibitions. Anyone afflicted by this should fear Allah and lower their gaze. And whoever fears temptation should abandon their studies and seek an alternative, for whoever gives up something for the sake of Allah, He will compensate them with something better.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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