Georgetown University has received more than $971 million from Qatar since 2005, according to a new report from the Middle East Forum. The findings, highlighted by Campus Reform, detail nearly two decades of financial ties connected to Georgetown University in Qatar. The report raises fresh scrutiny over foreign funding in American higher education.
The Middle East Forum analysis states that the funding supports Georgetown’s Doha campus and related academic initiatives. The agreement between the university and Qatari entities has reportedly been extended through 2035. Much of the funding flows through contracts tied to operating the Qatar campus, where Georgetown oversees academic programming.
According to the report, Qatar retains tuition revenue from the Doha campus while providing substantial financial backing to the university. The total figure of $971 million makes Qatar one of the largest foreign financial contributors to a U.S. university. The report argues that this long-term arrangement creates significant institutional reliance on foreign government support.
The findings also note that individuals connected to Qatar have held positions connected to Georgetown’s governance structure. The report further details Qatari funding for endowed chairs and academic positions. These roles support research and teaching initiatives associated with Middle Eastern studies and international affairs.
Foreign funding of American universities has drawn increasing attention from lawmakers in recent years. Federal law requires disclosure of significant foreign gifts and contracts under Section 117 of the Higher Education Act. Policymakers have expressed concern that large-scale donations from foreign governments could shape research priorities, campus programming, or institutional policies.
Georgetown University has publicly maintained that it retains full academic control over its programs in Qatar. The university has stated in past disclosures that its global partnerships align with its educational mission.
The Middle East Forum report adds to ongoing national debate over transparency, accountability, and the influence of foreign governments within American institutions of higher learning.
