Abu Dhabi University Scholarship 2025: Application Process & Deadlines
Abu Dhabi University offers various scholarship categories to cater to different student needs and achievements. These range from partial tuition waivers to fully funded opportunities.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
The most prestigious scholarship offered by ADU, providing comprehensive financial support:
- 100% waiver on tuition fees
- Full coverage of application fee
- Complete waiver of registration fee
- Full coverage of student services fee
- Health service fee entirely covered
This scholarship targets exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential and leadership qualities.
Academic Scholarship
Designed for continuing students who maintain academic excellence:
- Covers 20% of tuition fees
- Available to students who achieve and maintain a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.60 for two consecutive semesters
- Requires full-time status (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester)
Abu Dhabi University Scholarship
Available to UAE residents and GCC candidates:
- Provides between 15% to 50% waiver on tuition fees based on academic merit
- Awarded to newly graduated high school students who join ADU within two years of graduation
- Tuition waiver percentage depends on high school average and campus location
Merit-Based Graduate Scholarship
Specifically for graduate students demonstrating academic excellence:
- Offers a 25% waiver on tuition fees
- Based on previous academic performance and potential for graduate-level success
- Available across all graduate programs
Read also: American University of Sharjah
Alumni Scholarship
Rewards loyalty and continued academic pursuit at ADU:
- Provides a 20% tuition fee waiver
- Available to ADU graduates who return for further studies
- Encourages continued educational advancement within the ADU community
Sports Scholarship
Recognizes students who contribute to ADU’s athletic programs:
- Available to students who actively participate in ADU sports teams
- Requires a minimum CGPA of 2.75
- Applies to full-time students registered for a minimum of 12 credit hours
- Demonstrates ADU’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals
Table of Contents
- H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
- Academic Scholarship
- Abu Dhabi University Scholarship
- Merit-Based Graduate Scholarship
- Alumni Scholarship
- Sports Scholarship
- Scholarship Benefits and Coverage
- Financial Benefits
- Duration and Renewal
- Additional Advantages
- Eligibility Requirements for ADU Scholarships 2025
- General Eligibility Criteria
- Undergraduate Scholarship Requirements
- Graduate Scholarship Requirements
- H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship Specific Requirements
- Step-by-Step Application Process
- 1. University Admission
- 2. Scholarship Application
- 3. Application Review
- 4. Notification and Acceptance
- Important Dates and Deadlines
- Tips for a Successful ADU Scholarship Application
- Strengthen Your Academic Profile
- Prepare a Compelling Application
- Obtain Strong Recommendations
- Meet All Requirements
- FAQ: Abu Dhabi University Scholarship 2025
- Are international students eligible for ADU scholarships?
- How competitive are the ADU scholarships?
- Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
- What GPA do I need to maintain to keep my scholarship?
- Can part-time students receive scholarships?
- What happens if I change my major while on scholarship?
- Success Stories from ADU Scholarship Recipients
- Fatima’s Academic Excellence Journey
- Mohammed’s H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship Experience
- Conclusion: Your Pathway to Academic Success at ADU
Scholarship Benefits and Coverage
The benefits of Abu Dhabi University scholarships vary depending on the specific scholarship category, but generally include:
Financial Benefits
- Tuition Fee Coverage: Ranging from 15% to 100% waiver depending on the scholarship
- Application Fee Waiver: Available with certain scholarships like the H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship
- Registration Fee Waiver: Provided with select scholarship programs
- Student Services Fee Coverage: Complete waiver for recipients of top scholarships
- Health Service Fee Coverage: Included in comprehensive scholarship packages
Duration and Renewal
- Maximum coverage period of four years or until graduation, whichever comes first
- Renewable each academic year subject to maintaining specified academic performance
- Continued full-time enrollment status required (minimum 12 credit hours per semester)
Additional Advantages
- Access to ADU’s state-of-the-art facilities and resources
- Opportunity to study in a multicultural environment
- Enhanced career opportunities through ADU’s industry connections
- Networking with fellow scholarship recipients and alumni
Read also: Upcoming Scholarships in the UAE for 2026
Eligibility Requirements for ADU Scholarships 2025
To qualify for Abu Dhabi University scholarships, applicants must meet specific criteria that vary based on the scholarship category and program level.
General Eligibility Criteria
- Formal Admission: Must be formally admitted to Abu Dhabi University
- Academic Standing: Minimum GPA requirements vary by scholarship (typically 2.75-3.60)
- Enrollment Status: Full-time enrollment with a minimum of 12 credit hours per semester
- English Proficiency: Meeting the English language requirements defined by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research
Undergraduate Scholarship Requirements
- High school certificate or equivalent with competitive grades
- For new high school graduates, scholarships are often based on high school average
- For continuing students, eligibility depends on maintaining the specified CGPA
- Meeting specific EmSAT or equivalent international exam requirements:
- Minimum EmSAT Math score of 1,200
- Minimum EmSAT English score of 1,600
- Minimum EmSAT Arabic score of 900 (for certain colleges)
Graduate Scholarship Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Minimum CGPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Relevant academic background for the chosen graduate program
- Professional experience (required for certain programs)
- Research proposal (for research-based programs)
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship Specific Requirements
This prestigious scholarship has more stringent requirements:
- Available to the top 20 public secondary school graduates across the UAE
- Newly admitted students joining ADU immediately after high school
- Exceptional academic performance in secondary education
- Strong leadership potential and extracurricular achievements
Step-by-Step Application Process
Securing an Abu Dhabi University scholarship involves a systematic application process that begins with gaining admission to the university.
1. University Admission
- Research Programs: Explore ADU’s program offerings to find the best fit for your academic goals
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required admission documents, including academic transcripts, identification documents, and English proficiency scores
- Submit Application: Apply for admission to your chosen program through ADU’s online portal
- Receive Admission: Obtain an acceptance letter and student ID from Abu Dhabi University
2. Scholarship Application
- Access Scholarship Section: Log in to your ADU student account and navigate to the Financial Aid and Scholarships section
- Review Eligibility: Identify scholarships for which you qualify based on your profile
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the scholarship application with accurate information
- Upload Supporting Documents: Provide any additional documentation required for the specific scholarship
3. Application Review
- Applications are evaluated based on academic merit and other criteria
- For certain scholarships, interviews may be conducted
- The scholarship committee reviews all applications and makes selections
- Priority may be given to early applicants, so timely submission is recommended
4. Notification and Acceptance
- Successful applicants receive notification through their ADU student account
- Review the scholarship terms and conditions carefully
- Accept the scholarship offer within the specified timeframe
- Complete any additional requirements for scholarship activation
Read also: Study in UAE: Scholarships for International Students
Important Dates and Deadlines
For the 2025 academic year, note these critical deadlines for Abu Dhabi University scholarship applications:
- Winter Semester Scholarship Deadline: January 3, 2025
- Spring Semester Scholarship Deadline: April 30, 2025
- Fall Semester Scholarship Deadline: August 15, 2025
Be aware that these dates may vary slightly based on the university’s academic calendar. Early application is strongly recommended as scholarship funds are limited and distributed on a competitive basis.

Tips for a Successful ADU Scholarship Application
Maximize your chances of securing an Abu Dhabi University scholarship with these expert recommendations:
Strengthen Your Academic Profile
- Maintain or improve your GPA to meet or exceed minimum requirements
- Take standardized tests early to ensure competitive scores
- Seek additional academic enrichment opportunities
Prepare a Compelling Application
- Tailor your personal statement to highlight achievements relevant to your chosen program
- Emphasize leadership experiences and community involvement
- Clearly articulate your academic and career goals
- Demonstrate how ADU aligns with your educational aspirations
Obtain Strong Recommendations
- Request letters from teachers, professors, or employers who know your work well
- Provide recommenders with information about the scholarship and program
- Allow sufficient time for them to write thoughtful, detailed letters
Meet All Requirements
- Double-check all eligibility criteria before applying
- Ensure all required documents are complete and properly formatted
- Submit your application well before the deadline
- Follow up appropriately if you don’t receive confirmation
Read also: Judicial Fellowship Program 2025 in USA
FAQ: Abu Dhabi University Scholarship 2025
Are international students eligible for ADU scholarships?
Yes, Abu Dhabi University scholarships are available to both domestic and international students. While some scholarships are specifically designed for UAE nationals or residents, many are open to qualified international applicants who meet the academic and admission requirements.
How competitive are the ADU scholarships?
ADU scholarships are competitive, particularly the fully funded options like the H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship. Selection is based on academic merit, and for some scholarships, additional factors such as leadership potential and extracurricular achievements are considered. Early application and strong academic credentials significantly improve your chances.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously?
Yes, you can be considered for multiple scholarship categories if you meet the eligibility criteria for each. However, in most cases, students can only receive one scholarship at a time. If you qualify for multiple scholarships, you will typically be awarded the one offering the highest benefit.
What GPA do I need to maintain to keep my scholarship?
The required GPA varies by scholarship type. For example, the Academic Scholarship requires maintaining a minimum CGPA of 3.60, while the Sports Scholarship requires a minimum of 2.75. Be sure to review the specific requirements for your scholarship to ensure continued eligibility.
Can part-time students receive scholarships?
Most ADU scholarships require full-time enrollment (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester). Part-time students generally have limited scholarship opportunities, though some financial aid options may still be available. Check with the ADU financial aid office for specific options for part-time students.
Read also: University of Dayton Scholarships
What happens if I change my major while on scholarship?
Changing your major while on scholarship may affect your eligibility, particularly if the new major is in a different college or has different academic requirements. Before changing majors, consult with the scholarship office to understand any potential impact on your financial support.
Success Stories from ADU Scholarship Recipients
Learning from current and former scholarship recipients provides valuable insights into the impact of ADU scholarships on students’ educational journeys.
Fatima’s Academic Excellence Journey
Fatima, an Engineering student from Egypt, secured the Abu Dhabi University Academic Scholarship based on her outstanding high school performance. Through this opportunity, she:
- Received a 50% tuition waiver for her entire undergraduate program
- Participated in multiple research projects with faculty mentors
- Represented ADU at international engineering competitions
- Secured an internship with a leading engineering firm in Abu Dhabi
The financial support allowed Fatima to focus on her studies and extracurricular activities without the burden of full tuition costs, contributing to her continued academic success.
Mohammed’s H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship Experience
Mohammed, a UAE national who ranked among the top 20 public school graduates, received the prestigious H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship. His experience showcases the comprehensive support provided:
- Full coverage of all university fees and expenses
- Mentorship from leading faculty members
- Priority access to international exchange opportunities
- Leadership development through specialized programs
This scholarship transformed Mohammed’s educational journey, providing not just financial support but also enhanced opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Read also: Schwarzman Scholars Programme
Conclusion: Your Pathway to Academic Success at ADU
The Abu Dhabi University Scholarship 2025 represents an exceptional opportunity for ambitious students to pursue quality higher education with substantial financial support. Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate student, domestic or international, ADU’s diverse scholarship offerings can make your educational aspirations more accessible.
By understanding the available scholarship options, eligibility requirements, and application process, you can strategically position yourself as a competitive candidate. Remember that academic excellence is the foundation of most scholarship opportunities, so maintaining strong grades and standardized test scores is essential.
As you prepare your application for the 2025 intake, focus on highlighting your unique strengths, achievements, and potential contribution to the ADU community. Begin the process early, gather all necessary documents, and submit a compelling, well-crafted application before the deadline.
With proper preparation and a strong application, you could join the ranks of successful ADU scholarship recipients pursuing their educational dreams in the United Arab Emirates.
Ready to apply? Visit the Abu Dhabi University scholarships page to begin your application journey today.
Read also: Top Fully Funded Scholarships in the UAE for 2025