Scholarships to study in UAE for international students are an important part of admissions to consider because pursuing higher education in UAE can be expensive, especially for international students coming to study at the top universities in UAE. International students planning to study in UAE often need around 48,000 AED to 120,000 AED (11 lakhs to 27 lakhs INR) annually to fund their tuition fees and around 36,000 AED (8 lakhs INR) a year to cover-up living expenses. Apart from this, there are various miscellaneous expenses to cover, such as airfare, UAE student visa, health insurance, and application fee.
For a student on a budget, this cost can be too much to bear. To aid students with these expenses there is no dearth of scholarships to study in UAE.
Explore: Cost of Living in UAE
Scholarships in UAE for international students offer as much as a complete funding to students who have excellent academic records. Such fully-funded scholarships are limited in number but other scholarships in UAE offer as much as 25,000 AED a year to students.
The eligibility for scholarships in UAE typically requires students to meet one of two criteria: either demonstrate exceptional academic performance or demonstrate a significant financial need. Certain scholarships are offered to students from specific countries or those enrolled in specific courses. Here is what you need to know when planning to apply for scholarships in UAE:
- For some scholarships, you will not be required to submit an additional application
- For the scholarships where applications are required, submit the same before the deadlines approach.
- Research and explore the scholarships you wish to apply for University-specific or government scholarships
- Apply for only one of the grants with either the university or the government.
In this article, we will explore the various scholarship options available for international students looking to study in the UAE.
Scholarships to Study in UAE Universities
There are plenty of scholarships available at UAE universities for those planning to make applications with the same. These can cover up to 100% of your tuition fees. University offered scholarships can be further categorized into 2 ways- on the basis of the level of the program or on the basis of type of university.
On the basis of the level of courses, you can apply to either bachelor’s scholarships or master's scholarships depending on the course you are choosing for. Some of the popular scholarships as per the level of degree are:
Scholarships to Study UG Courses in UAE
UG courses at universities in UAE cost around 55,000 AED to 120,000 AED (12 lakhs-27 lakhs INR). Discussed below are the scholarships that will help you ease down the amount involved in getting your UG degree in UAE:
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award |
|---|---|---|
| UG Scholarship for International Students | Apply with UG courses at University of Sharjah | 100% tuition waiver |
| Partial Tuition Scholarship for International Students | Apply with University of Sharjah’s UG courses | 50% tuition waiver |
| UG Merit Scholarship | Apply for UG courses at American University of Sharjah | 20-50% tuition waiver |
| Khalifa University President’s Scholarship | International with CGPA >= 3.3 (88%) | 100% of tuition fees |
| International with CGPA 3.0 –3.3 (85-88%) | 75% of tuition fees | |
| International with CGPA 2.5 – 3.0 (75-84%) | 50% of tuition fees | |
| Khalifa University Partial Scholarship | International with CGPA >= 3.0 (85%) | 50% of tuition fees |
| International with CGPA 2.5 – 3.0 (75-84%) | 25% of tuition fees | |
| International with CGPA 2.0 – 2.49 (70%-75%) | 10% of tuition fees | |
| UAE University Full Scholarship | 97% in 12th, 7.0 in IELTS, 680 or more in Maths SAT subject exam | 100% tuition waiver |
| UAE University Partial Scholarship | 90% in 12th, 6.5 in IELTS, 630 or more in Maths SAT subject exam | 50% tuition waiver |
| American University of Sharjah Chancellor’s Scholar Award | 95% in 12th and excellent leadership qualities | 75-100% tuition fee coverage |
| Zayed University UG Merit Scholarship | 95% in 12th, 6.0 in IELTS, 80 or more in TOEFL | 50% tuition fee coverage |
| BITS Pilani UG Scholarship | 90% in 12th | 50% tuition waiver |
| Emirates Aviation University Chancellor Scholarships | 95% in 12th and 7.0 in IELTS | 100% tuition fee coverage |
| H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship | Enrolled in Abu Dhabi University, 1200 or more in Maths emSAT exam (or international equivalent) | 100% fee coverage |
Scholarships to Study PG Courses in UAE
Pursuing PG courses in UAE can cost anywhere from around 60,000 AED to 145,000 AED. For an Indian applicant, this means an expense of 13 lakhs to 32 lakhs INR. Discussed below are some of the popular scholarships available to international students pursuing MS courses in UAE universities
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Merit Scholarships at Zayed University | International with CGPA >= 3.8 (93%) | 40% of tuition fees |
| International with CGPA 3.6 –3.8 (91-93%) | 25% of tuition fees | |
| International with CGPA 3.2 – 3.6 (87-91%) | 10% of tuition fees | |
| Khalifa University Combined Master/Doctoral Research Teaching Scholarship | For those enrolling with master and PhD courses | Covers complete tuition+Stipend of 8,000 to 12,000 |
| Khalifa University Master Research Teaching Scholarship | Scholarship supports international students pursuing a Master's degree at Khalifa University | Covers complete tuition+Stipend of 4,000 |
| Chancellor Fellowship for Graduate Student at UAE University | Primarily provided to students in STEM and strategic areas of the country Academic Standing (GPA ≥ 3.8/4.0 or 93%) | 50% tuition cover |
| UAE Government IRENA Scholarships | Comply with MASDAR Institute and IRENA criteria | Covers tuition fee, medical insurance, books, laptops + Stipend for living expenses |
| Abraaj RCA Innovation Scholarship for UAE Students | Available to study at a Master’s level for two years at the Royal College of Art in London | Varies |
| Mohamed Bin Zayed University Scholarship for AI | Enrol with Masters or Ph.D. courses | Covers complete tuition+Stipend of 8,000 to 10,000 |
MBA Scholarships to Study in UAE
When pursuing MBA in UAE, often international students look for financial aids to pursue the degree. Some of the popular scholarships to look for when planning your MBA from UAE are as follows:
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award |
|---|---|---|
| Women in Business Award | Available to female candidates applying for business programs with Bayes Business School. | 30% off on tuition fees |
| Professional Excellence Award | Offered to candidates with clear professional merit and can demonstrate a potential to contribute to all aspects of the MBA program at Bayes Business School | 50% tuition fee off |
| Entrepreneurial Scholarship | Enrolled at Bayes Business School and exceptional entrepreneurial drive | 30% off on tuition |
| INSEAD Deepak & Sunita Gupta Endowed Scholarships | Offered to students coming from developing/emerging countries with financial needs | 107,993 AED (25,000 Euros) |
| Forté INSEAD Fellowship | Candidates with exemplary leadership | 43,197 to 86,395 AED (10,000 to 20,000 Euros) |
| INSEAD Indian Alumni Scholarship | Indian citizens who demonstrate proven financial need | 107,993 AED (25,000 Euros) |
How to Apply for Scholarships in UAE?
Though the basic requirement for applying to each form of scholarship with any university varies, there are certain pointers to note when planning to apply for scholarships to study in UAE:
- Confirm whether a separate application is required for applying for the university
- Check the application criteria to understand whether you are eligible for a specific scholarship or not.
- Proof of finances is mandatory for need-based scholarships
- Prepare all the necessary documents, such as transcripts, Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and standardized test scores.
To apply for a scholarship in UAE, one must send in their applications on time (as per deadlines). If you are awarded the scholarship, make sure to fulfill all the obligations and requirements associated with the scholarship, such as maintaining a certain GPA or participating in community service activities.
Also Read: How to Apply to universities in UAE?
Finding scholarships in UAE is not difficult if you plan on pursuing education in the country. You can choose from the pool of opportunities like scholarships, loans, and others. Apart from scholarships, you can also look for work-study opportunities in UAE. As an international student, you are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during holidays. Jobs while studying in UAE help you make around 3000 to 8000 AED (67000-1 lakhs INR) and fund your basic expenses when in the country.
FAQs
Ques. Does UAE give scholarships for international students?
Yes, UAE offers scholarships for international students to pursue higher education in its universities. There are various scholarship programs available for international students in UAE that cover tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and other associated costs. Some of the scholarship programs available in UAE for international students include:
- H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
- Abu Dhabi University Scholarship
- Khalifa University Scholarship
Ques. How can I get a full scholarship in Dubai?
Getting a full scholarship in Dubai can be highly competitive, but there are several steps you can take to increase your chances of obtaining one:
- Research scholarship opportunities: Look for universities and organisations that offer full scholarships in Dubai.
- Meet the eligibility criteria: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the scholarship program you are interested in, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and other requirements.
- Prepare your application: Gather all the necessary documents
- Apply early: Many scholarship programs have early application deadlines, so make sure to apply as early as possible to avoid missing out on any opportunities.
- Stand out: To increase your chances of obtaining a full scholarship in Dubai, you need to stand out from other applicants. This can be achieved by highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and other accomplishments.
Ques. How can I study for free in UAE?
Studying for free in UAE is highly challenging as tuition fees in most universities are costly. However, there are a few options available that could help you to study for free or reduce the cost of education:
- Scholarships: Look for scholarship opportunities offered by universities and government agencies in UAE that cover tuition fees and living expenses.
- Financial Aid: Several universities in UAE offer financial aid programs to support students in covering tuition fees and other related costs.
- Work and Study Programs: Some universities offer work and study programs that allow students to work part-time while pursuing their degree.
- Employer Sponsorship: If you are currently employed, check with your employer if they offer sponsorship programs to support your education.
- Online Courses: Several platforms offer free online courses and certifications that could improve your skills and knowledge in your field of study.
Ques. Which scholarship is fully funded to study in UAE?
Some of the most popular fully-funded scholarships in UAE are:
- Khalifa University President’s Scholarship
- UAE University Full Scholarship
- Emirates Aviation University Chancellor Scholarships
- H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
- Mohamed Bin Zayed University Scholarship for AI
- UAE Government IRENA Scholarships
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