Scholarships in UAE for International Students 2025

Scholarships in UAE for International Students 2025

Are you an international student dreaming of studying in the United Arab Emirates? The UAE has established itself as a leading education destination in the Middle East, attracting students from across the globe with its world-class universities and diverse academic programs. What makes this educational journey even more accessible are the numerous scholarships in UAE for international students 2025 that provide financial support for your academic pursuits.

The UAE offers a blend of academic excellence, state-of-the-art infrastructure, vibrant community, and multicultural environment that creates an ideal learning experience for international students. With generous scholarship opportunities, studying in this dynamic nation has become increasingly attainable for qualified students worldwide.

Read also: How to Apply for Scholarships in the UAE

Top Scholarship Programs for International Students in UAE

The United Arab Emirates hosts various scholarship programs for international students across different academic levels. Here’s a comprehensive look at the most prestigious opportunities available for the 2025 academic year:

Khalifa University Scholarships

Khalifa University offers one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages for international students in the UAE. These scholarships are highly competitive and designed to attract exceptional talent from around the world.

Key Benefits:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Monthly stipend (up to 40,000 AED depending on program level)
• Medical insurance
• Support for attending international conferences
• Textbooks allowance
• Travel allowance for international students

Eligibility Requirements:

• Outstanding academic record (minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 for master’s and 3.5/4.0 for PhD)
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 91)
• Research potential (for graduate scholarships)
• Meets admission requirements for the chosen program

Khalifa University provides different scholarship tiers based on academic merit, with the most prestigious being the President’s Scholarship for exceptional students. No application fee is required, making it accessible to students from diverse backgrounds.

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarships

MBZUAI offers fully funded scholarships to students pursuing advanced degrees in artificial intelligence and related fields. As a specialized institution focusing on AI research and education, these scholarships represent a unique opportunity for students interested in this rapidly growing field.

Key Benefits:

• 100% tuition fee waiver
• Monthly stipend
• Housing accommodations
• Health insurance
• Travel allowances
• Research support funding

Eligibility Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field
• Strong academic background in computer science or related disciplines
• Demonstrated interest in AI research
• English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.5 or equivalent)

All students admitted to MBZUAI on a full-time basis are granted full scholarships, making it an exceptionally generous program for qualified students interested in AI studies.

Read also: Schwarzman Scholars Programme

Abu Dhabi University Scholarships

Abu Dhabi University offers various scholarship programs for international students pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. These scholarships range from partial tuition waivers to fully funded opportunities.

Key Benefits:

• Tuition waivers (15% to 100% depending on scholarship type)
• Some programs include monthly stipends
• Health insurance (for selected scholarships)
• Academic resources and support

Eligibility Requirements:

• Academic excellence (requirements vary by scholarship type)
• Full-time enrollment (minimum 12 credit hours per semester)
• Meeting English proficiency requirements
• Maintaining academic standing during studies

The H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship is one of ADU’s most prestigious offerings, providing a 100% waiver on tuition, application fees, registration fees, and student services fees.

United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships

As the first and oldest research university in the UAE, UAEU offers comprehensive scholarship programs for international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Key Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage
• Monthly stipends (up to 3,000 AED from external research projects)
• Health insurance
• Research support funding
• Academic resources and facilities access

Eligibility Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of a 3.0/4.0 (for graduate programs)
• Strong academic credentials
• English language proficiency
• Meeting program-specific admission requirements

The application deadline for UAEU Graduate Scholarships for the 2025 academic year is April 30, 2025, for master’s programs and March 31, 2025, for PhD programs, giving prospective students ample time to prepare their applications.

Zayed University Scholarships

Named after the founding father of the UAE, Zayed University offers scholarships that embody the spirit of innovation rooted in tradition. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate international students.

Key Benefits:

• Partial to full tuition waivers
• Academic resources and support
• Multicultural learning environment
• Networking opportunities

Eligibility Requirements:

• Strong academic background
• Meeting admission requirements for the chosen program
• English language proficiency
• Demonstration of leadership potential

Zayed University encourages students to embrace creativity and critical thinking through these scholarship opportunities, preparing them for success in a rapidly changing world.

Read also: American University of Sharjah

Comparison of UAE Scholarship Programs for International Students

Scholarship Program	Level of Study	Coverage	Application Deadline	GPA Requirement	IELTS Requirement
Khalifa University	Undergraduate, Graduate, PhD	Full tuition, stipend, medical insurance	Varies by intake	3.0-3.5/4.0	6.5+
MBZUAI	Master’s, PhD	Full tuition, stipend, housing, health insurance	Varies by program	3.0/4.0	6.5+
Abu Dhabi University	Undergraduate, Graduate	15-100% tuition waiver, varies by program	Multiple intakes	Varies by scholarship	5.5-6.5
UAEU	Undergraduate, Graduate, PhD	Full tuition, stipend, health insurance	Apr 30 (MS), Mar 31 (PhD)	3.0/4.0	6.0-7.0
Zayed University	Undergraduate, Graduate	Partial to full tuition	Varies by program	3.0/4.0	6.0+

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Securing a scholarship in the UAE requires careful planning and attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of success:

1. Research and Select Programs

Begin by researching universities and scholarship programs that align with your academic interests and career goals. Consider factors such as:

• University reputation and accreditation
• Program curriculum and specializations
• Scholarship benefits and coverage
• Location within the UAE
• Available facilities and resources

Create a shortlist of programs that match your qualifications and interests before proceeding with applications.

2. Check Eligibility Requirements

Each scholarship program has specific eligibility criteria that may include:

• Academic qualifications (minimum GPA requirements)
• English language proficiency scores
• Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT for some graduate programs)
• Previous education level
• Field of study restrictions
• Country of origin (some scholarships target specific regions)

Ensure you meet all requirements before investing time in the application process.

Read also: University of Dayton Scholarships

3. Prepare Required Documents

Common documents needed for UAE scholarship applications include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates (authenticated and translated if required)
• Standardized test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, GRE/GMAT if applicable)
• Updated CV/Resume highlighting academic achievements and relevant experiences
• Personal statement or statement of purpose outlining your academic goals
• Research proposal (for research-based graduate programs)
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
• Copy of passport and identification documents
• Passport-sized photographs with appropriate specifications

Additional program-specific documents may be required, so check each institution’s guidelines carefully.

4. Complete and Submit Applications

Most UAE universities have online application systems for both admission and scholarships:

• Create an account on the university’s application portal
• Fill out all required information accurately
• Upload required documents in the specified format
• Pay any applicable application fees (note that some scholarship programs waive these fees)
• Submit your application before the deadline
• Note your application ID for future reference

For many universities, you must first apply for admission and then separately for scholarships once you receive admission.

5. Prepare for Interviews

Shortlisted candidates for prestigious scholarships may be invited for interviews:

• Research the university and program thoroughly
• Prepare to discuss your academic background and achievements
• Articulate your motivation for studying in the UAE
• Explain how the program aligns with your career goals
• Practice common interview questions
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewers

Virtual interviews are common for international students, so ensure you have reliable internet access and appropriate technology.

Read also: Upcoming Scholarships in the UAE for 2026

6. Follow Up and Accept Offers

After submitting applications:

• Monitor your email regularly for communications
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
• If offered a scholarship, carefully review all terms and conditions
• Accept your preferred offer before the specified deadline
• Decline other offers professionally
• Begin visa and travel preparations

FAQ: Scholarships in UAE for International Students 2025

What types of scholarships are available in the UAE for international students?

The UAE offers various scholarship types for international students, including merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, research grants, and athletic scholarships. These range from partial tuition waivers to fully funded packages covering tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel allowances, depending on the institution and program.

Do UAE scholarships require IELTS or TOEFL scores?

Yes, most UAE scholarships require proof of English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Typical minimum requirements range from IELTS 5.5-7.0 or TOEFL 79-100, depending on the program level and institution. Some universities may accept alternative tests like PTE or Cambridge English exams, and students from English-speaking countries might qualify for exemptions.

What are the GPA requirements for UAE scholarships?

Most UAE scholarships require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for graduate programs and 3.6+ for competitive undergraduate scholarships. Premier scholarships typically demand higher GPAs of 3.5-3.8. Maintaining these academic standards is essential for scholarship renewal, with most programs requiring students to maintain a minimum GPA throughout their studies.

Can international students work while studying on a scholarship in the UAE?

International scholarship recipients in the UAE generally face restrictions on off-campus employment. Most scholarship agreements require full-time dedication to studies, though some programs allow for on-campus work or research/teaching assistantships. Working regulations vary by emirate and institution, so check specific scholarship terms and UAE student visa regulations before seeking employment.

How competitive are UAE scholarships for international students?

UAE scholarships, especially fully funded programs at premier institutions like Khalifa University and MBZUAI, are highly competitive, with acceptance rates typically below 20%. Applicants are evaluated on academic excellence, research potential, extracurricular achievements, and alignment with UAE’s strategic goals. Early application and exceptional academic credentials significantly improve chances of success.

When should I apply for UAE scholarships for the 2025 academic year?

Application timelines vary by institution, but most UAE universities open scholarship applications 6-12 months before the academic year begins. For the 2025 academic year, expect deadlines between November 2024 and May 2025, with premier institutions like UAEU setting graduate scholarship deadlines of March 31, 2025 (PhD) and April 30, 2025 (Master’s).

Read also: Judicial Fellowship Program 2025 in USA

Conclusion: Your Path to Studying in the UAE

Scholarships in UAE for international students in 2025 offer exceptional opportunities to access world-class education in one of the most dynamic regions globally. With comprehensive financial support packages, state-of-the-art facilities, and diverse academic environments, the UAE has positioned itself as a premier destination for international education.

The key to securing these opportunities lies in early preparation, thorough research, and attention to application details. Begin your scholarship journey today by identifying programs that align with your academic goals, preparing necessary documentation, and working to strengthen your application profile.

Whether you’re interested in cutting-edge research at Khalifa University, artificial intelligence innovation at MBZUAI, or diverse academic programs at institutions like UAEU, Abu Dhabi University, or Zayed University, there’s a scholarship opportunity waiting for talented and motivated international students.

Start your application process now and take the first step toward an enriching educational experience in the United Arab Emirates in 2025.

Written by Dr. Mariam Al-Qasimi, International Education Specialist with expertise in UAE higher education systems and scholarship programs for international students.

Read also: Study in UAE: Scholarships for International Students