Is it permissible for a Muslim to study in a college that has crosses in its classrooms?
Regarding pictures hung in the shape of a cross: if they are intended as the emblem of Christians, they must be removed whenever possible, based on the statement of Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her: "He [the Prophet] would not leave anything in his house containing crosses without breaking it"; this is because the cross is among the objects worshipped besides Allah. However, if they are merely decorations or geometric shapes not intended to be a cross, then it is not obligatory to remove them, but it is better to change them to avoid suspicion.
If the cross is something that is forbidden, then it is obligatory to change it by hand and forbid it when one has the ability. If one is unable or fears harm, then by the tongue. If still unable, then by the heart, which is the weakest of faith. If the university insists on not changing them, then the disapproval remains in the heart, and it is advisable for the student to change their place of study if they can do so without harm.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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