Ramadan - A supportive guide for students and staff

This guide provides practical tips on balancing religious obligations and academic commitments throughout the month of Ramadan as well as how you can support your fellow student doctors as they mark this holy month. Written by student doctors and the Wellbeing team at the School of Medicine

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. In this month Muslims observe obligatory fasting from the break of dawn to sunset, abstaining from eating and drinking (including water) as well as other acts and non-productive habits. The purpose of fasting is to develop self-control, gratitude, and develop a stronger connection to God.

As stated in the Quran, “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” - Surah Al-Baqarah, Ayah 183.

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all Muslims, except for those who are exempt due to health conditions, pregnancy, menstruation, travel, or other valid reasons.

Most people assume that fasting means simply no eating or drinking, and although this is partially true, the main goal during Ramadan is to learn self-discipline, create healthy habits, focus on spirituality and ultimately on growing closer to God and increasing Taqwa (being conscious of God).

Extra effort is also taken to perform good habits such as helping others, donating to charity and spending time with loved ones, as well as avoiding bad habits such as gossiping or being wasteful with time.

During this month, Muslims may take the opportunity to further test their self-discipline by giving up something they find time consuming or distracting, such as listening to music, watching movies/TV and using social media, instead choosing to spend this extra time in prayer, serving others or learning more about Islam.

Key terms to know:

Suhoor: The pre-dawn meal before the fast begins.
Iftar: The evening meal to break the fast at sunset.
Taraweeh: Special prayers performed at night during Ramadan.

Balancing Ramadan with University Life

Many students face challenges balancing academic responsibilities with fasting, prayers, and spiritual reflection. Here are some practical tips to help manage time and energy effectively:

1. Time Management & Productivity

Plan ahead: Schedule revision and assignments earlier in the day when energy levels are higher.
Prioritise tasks: Focus on essential academic work and avoid overloading yourself.
Use breaks wisely: Take short power naps if needed, especially between classes.

2. Staying Energized During Fasting

Eat nutritious meals at suhoor and iftar, focusing on slow-release energy foods such as oats, whole grains, fruits, and protein.
Stay hydrated during non-fasting hours by drinking plenty of water, water-rich foods (watermelon, cucumbers) as well as additional supplements/electrolytes.
Avoid excessive caffeine, salt and sugar before fasting, as it can cause dehydration.

3. Attending Lectures & Placements

If your energy dips, stay engaged by taking notes and actively participating in discussions where possible.
Inform tutors and supervisors in advance about your fasting, especially for placements or labs.
Rescheduling or swapping teaching isn’t always possible for the MBChB programme, so try to plan ahead. A wellbeing management plan might help you stay prepared and organised during the month. (please rewrite or confirm)

Support for Students During Ramadan

1. University Facilities & Accommodations

Prayer Spaces: Multi-faith spaces are available at Cedar House (Ground floor) Sydney Jones Library (Basement), Waterhouse Block J – First floor. For a full list of campus prayer spaces, please contact the Wellbeing Team.
Campus Support: The campus support chaperone service is available 24/7 for those who may be on campus later than usual.
Flexible arrangements: It is worth noting that Extenuating Circumstances are designed to take into account the impact of unexpected occurrences. This does not include Ramadan and Eid as they are known in advance and can be planned via School policies and processes.

2. Speaking to Staff & Tutors

Inform lecturers and placement supervisors that you will be fasting. They may be able to offer advice or guidance on how to balance studies during Ramadan.
If you are on placement, speak to the undergraduate team about locating quiet spaces or rest rooms on site.
If you feel unwell due to fasting, do not hesitate to seek medical advice and follow the normal policy on reporting absences or illness to the School.

3. Social & Emotional Wellbeing

Join a student community or Islamic society. Seek support and shared experiences from other student doctors. Avoid isolation and try to stay connected with friends, whether fasting or not. Take a look at the long list of societies available at the University.
Do not be afraid to reach out to others. Ramadan at university can feel challenging without our usual support system. We are fortunate to have an enthusiastic and supportive Muslim community in Liverpool who are always willing to speak to students. Find out where your local mosque is and attend events held by them or by societies from the university to meet other Muslim students. Abdullah Quilliam Mosque in Liverpool was established in 1887 and was actually Britain’s first ever mosque! It is still running today and welcomes Muslims of all backgrounds. They hold various sermons, community iftars, prayer groups and live stream their prayers on YouTube for those who cannot attend in person.
Use Ramadan as a time to focus on personal growth, gratitude, and reflection.

Frequently asked questions

We asked our fellow medics for any questions they had about Ramadan. Here are the 10 most common:

1. How can I respectfully wish my colleagues a Happy Ramadan? When should I say this?

The most common way is by saying ‘Ramadan Mubarak’, which can be said any time throughout the month.

2. Why is Ramadan different every year and why do you have to wait to find out when it is? Why do people start fasting on different days?

The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar calendar. Ramadan begins when the moon is first sighted as a crescent in the sky, which means we are never 100% sure until the night before! Different Muslims follow the Islamic calendar of different countries and wait to hear back from whether the moon was sighted in that location or not. Sometimes, the moon is sighted in one country and not another so there may be a day’s difference to when Ramadan starts for some people vs others.

3. Can I eat/drink in front of you?

Yes – most Muslims are used to people eating/drinking around them so it is really not an issue.

4. Why do some of my colleagues fast but others don’t?

Many people are exempt from fasting. Remember that the reason behind their exemption could be personal/private so it is usually best not to ask someone why they are not fasting.

5. Is there anything we can do to support you?

Being aware of the holy month makes a huge difference – try to learn about why Ramadan is celebrated and appreciate its importance to Muslims. It can be challenging at times so try to support your colleagues by checking in on them and offering help when you can when possible. It is also a good idea to try and plan events at times that are more convenient to your Muslim colleagues. Knowing when sunset is and that it will be important for your colleagues to have this time free will help them immensely.

6. My friends tell me they are busy in the evenings with ‘special prayers’ – what does this mean?

Muslims will spend extra time in Ramadan reading the Qur’an and performing acts of worship. As well as the usual five daily prayers, some Muslims also pray ‘Tarawih’, which is a longer prayer performed after the fifth prayer ‘Isha’. Tarawih is often prayed in congregation and is performed every night of Ramadan. The first Tarawih prayer takes place the night before the first fast.

7. Am I allowed to ask to join my Muslim friends for suhoor/iftar?

Absolutely! One of the best parts of Ramadan is having a community and getting to share our faith with others. Showing an interest in Islam and having an appreciation for its celebrations is always well received. Do not be afraid to ask about Ramadan, even if you have no prior knowledge, as most Muslims will be more than happy to answer any questions as long as they are asked respectfully.

8. I live with Muslims who celebrate Ramadan – is there anything I should know?

Be aware that your housemates may act differently than normal – it is common for people to feel more tired, become quieter or need more time alone. Checking in on them and supporting them through this, especially during the early stages of Ramadan will always be appreciated.

It is also good to be aware that your housemates may have a different routine than normal. Some people find that they are more productive during the night when they are able to eat and will choose to take naps throughout the day. Others will appreciate a quieter atmosphere to focus on prayers.

Speak to your housemates and learn about what is important to them so you can try and create a supportive environment in your house.

9. What are some common misconceptions about Ramadan?

One big misconception about Ramadan is that it is the ‘month of fasting’. Fasting is just one of the ways Muslims celebrate Ramadan, but the bigger themes include self-improvement, self-discipline and gaining closeness to God.

10. What can we do to support patients and families who are celebrating Ramadan?

Firstly, it is important to be aware that not all of your patients will be fasting - it is completely fine to ask them politely if they are! If they are fasting, be mindful of wording - Ramadhan is a religious celebration and although it may be hard to believe, it is one of the most exciting times of year for Muslims.

Well-meaning colleagues will often say they feel sorry for Muslims who are fasting - a better way to show support could be by saying that you admire the discipline and resilience it takes to fast.

Other ways of supporting patients and families could be by learning if your trust has a prayer room or chaplain in case your patient needs directing to these services. Please also be aware that patients may have a Qur’an or prayer mat with them or by their bedside. Prayer is a sacred act in Islam and all Muslims must perform an obligatory wash known as ablution (Wudhu) before praying or holding the Qur’an. If you need access to an area, always ask your patient before touching or moving their religious items.

We hope these tips can be beneficial and wish a beautiful and fulfilling month for you all, Ameen!

Advice for Students in Specific Situations

Students on Placement or Working Long Hours

Inform your supervisor about Ramadan well in advance.
Plan breaks strategically to conserve energy throughout the day.
Consider speaking to your placement coordinator if certain physical tasks become difficult.
Ensure you get proper rest by managing sleep and avoiding unnecessary late nights.

Medical Considerations & Exemptions from Fasting

Students who are unwell, pregnant, or travelling are exempt from fasting and can make up for it later. Informative recommendations and guidance can be found on the British Muslim Association website.
If fasting is affecting health or academic performance, consult a doctor and seek spiritual guidance.
Dehydration or extreme fatigue should not be ignored—prioritise health and safety.

Taking Time Off for Eid

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is a time of celebration.

Request time off in advance for Eid. You may wish to request time off for Eid and Year Directors will always try to support this so long as the request is reasonable. When making an absence request, ensure that you take your overall attendance into consideration. Refer to the School's Attendance policy or speak to an LTSO if unsure.
If formal leave is not possible, try to plan work in advance to ensure you can participate in celebrations.

Final Thoughts

Ramadan is a deeply significant time for Muslim students. Universities can support students by fostering an inclusive and understanding environment that respects their spiritual commitments while ensuring academic success.

If you need further support, reach out to your university’s wellbeing team, chaplaincy services, or student support office.

Useful links:

With thanks to Zafira, Aisha and Abdulla for their significant contributions to this guide, along with support from other Liverpool student doctors. Wishing everyone a blessed and fulfilling Ramadan.