The University of Montana has been offering the STARTALK Montana Arabic Summer Institute (MASI) for high school students since 2008. STARTALK is a program that is administered by the National Foreign Language Center at the University of Maryland, and funded by the National Security Language Initiative (NSLI) announced by former President Bush in 2006 to expand and improve the teaching and learning of strategically important foreign languages.

STARTALK MASI offers two levels:

• Level 1 (for new students with no previous knowledge of Arabic), and
• Level 2 (for students who took STARTALK MASI in previous summers).

Students develop Arabic language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and cultural knowledge in a fun and academic environment.

Students of the seven high schools in Missoula and the around rural area may apply: Hellgate High School, Big Sky High School, Sentinel High School, Loyola High School, Stevensville High School, Valley Christian High School, and Frenchtown High School. Seats are limited and students are encouraged to apply as soon as announcements are made. The program pays for tution fees, instructional materials, and transportation for field trips. Courses are taught by UM's Arabic faculty members: Professor Samir Bitar and Dr. Khaled Huthaily. Students receive college credits.