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If you’re looking for a country that provides top-quality education without the financial burden, Qatar offers a perfect mix of excellent academic programs and a unique living experience. With 32 universities and more than 41,000 students, it’s quickly becoming one of the top choices for international students. The country dedicates about 10.5% of its budget to education, reflecting its strong commitment to developing future leaders. Moreover, Qatar offers a wide range of courses in fields like engineering courses for the future, business, and medicine, and its growing number of private schools with international curricula makes it an attractive destination for students from all over the world. In this blog, you will read all about how to study in Qatar, requirements, fees, top universities, and more for international students. Ready to achieve your study abroad dreams? Let’s begin.
| Aspect | Details |
| Number of Universities | 32 universities and higher education institutions |
| International Student Enrollment | Over 41,000 students (2020-2021 academic year) |
| Popular Fields of Study | Engineering, Business, Medicine, Social Sciences, Arts, Law |
| Language of Instruction | Primarily English (with some programs in Arabic) |
| Popular Scholarships in Qatar for International Students | Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Scholarship, Tamim bin Hamad Scholarship, GCC States Scholarships |
| Visa Requirements | Student visa required for non-Qatari students |
| Work Opportunities | Students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) |
| Post-Graduation Opportunities | Growing job market, especially in oil & gas, engineering, healthcare, and business sectors |
This Blog Includes:
- Why Study in Qatar?
- Education System in Qatar
- Best Universities in Qatar for International Students
- Exams Required to Study in Qatar
- How to Apply to Study in Qatar
- Working While Studying in Qatar
- Cost of Studying in Qatar in 2025
- Cost of Living in Qatar in 2025
- Scholarships to Study in Qatar
- Affordable Universities to Study in Qatar
- Visa Application Process for Qatar
- Qatari Residence Permit
- High-paying Careers and Salaries in Qatar for International Students
- FAQs
Why Study in Qatar?
Qatar is renowned for its stunning desert landscapes and beaches. Doha, its capital city, is filled with skyscrapers reaching for the sky. Moreover, Qatar is slowly emerging as a popular study abroad destination for international students. Don’t know if it is the right choice for you? Here are some reasons why you should study in Qatar as an international student:
- Convenient Transportation: Qatar offers excellent transportation options, including the Doha Metro, which launched in 2019. There are also taxis, limo services, and buses to easily travel around the city.
- Prestigious Educational Institutions: Qatar is home to branches of at least 6 renowned universities, such as Carnegie Mellon University, Georgetown University, and Texas A&M University, providing access to top-tier education.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Campuses like Education City boast modern amenities, including advanced research labs and the Qatar National Library, which houses over a million books.
- Safe and Stable Environment: As one of the world’s wealthiest countries, Qatar has a high GDP per capita. Moreover, it provides a secure and socially stable setting for students to pursue their academic endeavours.
- Employment Opportunities: Graduates can explore various sectors, including energy, IT, construction, and tourism, with competitive, tax-free salaries.
- Personalized Learning Experience: Students enjoy a low student-to-lecturer ratio, like 5:1 at Georgetown University in Qatar, with most professors holding PhDs and coming from top universities.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Qatar University offers free tuition and housing for Gulf state students and tuition exemptions for high-achieving internationals. Georgetown University provides interest-free loans and scholarships for students with a 3.6 GPA or higher.
- Quick and Easy Visa Process: Another reason for studying in Qatar is its easy visa process. International students can apply for a student visa online at qatarevisaonline.com after receiving their admission letter. The processing time is fast, usually taking just 72 hours.
Education System in Qatar
Qatar has a well-structured education system that is designed to provide quality education to students of all levels. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the education system:
1. Language of Instruction
The main language of instruction in most schools in Qatar is Arabic. However, many international schools and universities use English, especially in higher education. This makes Qatar an attractive option for international students.
2. Public vs Private Education
Qatar offers both public and private schooling options. Public education is free for Qatari citizens and is managed by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Private schools, which cater to both Qatari nationals and international students, often follow international curricula like British, American, or other global systems.
3. Dual Education System
Qatar has introduced a dual education system that combines both academic learning and practical vocational training. This approach helps students gain theoretical knowledge as well as practical skills, making them well-prepared for the workforce.
Best Universities in Qatar for International Students
Qatar is home to many universities, some of which are located in a special area called Education City. This provides a great academic environment and the chance to build industry connections through nearby research facilities and organizations. Moreover, the Qatar Foundation also supports innovation in education through events like the World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE), making Qatar an exciting place for higher studies. Here are the best universities in Qatar for international students:
| University Name | Location |
| Qatar University | Doha |
| Hamad Bin Khalifa University | Doha (Education City) |
| Texas A&M University at Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| University of Calgary in Qatar | Doha |
| Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| Northwestern University in Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| Georgetown University in Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| Doha Institute for Graduate Studies | Doha |
| Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| Qatar Aeronautical Academy | Doha |
| Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar (Medbay) | Doha |
| Al Rayyan International University College | Al Rayyan |
| HEC Paris in Qatar | Doha (Education City) |
| Ulster University | Doha |
| MIE – Savitribai Phule Pune University, Doha | Doha |
| Lusail University | Lusail |
| University Foundation College | Doha |
Exams Required to Study in Qatar
International students wanting to study in Qatar are required to meet certain academic qualifications. These requirements depend on the level and type of program they are applying for. Although the criteria may vary from university to university, here are some of the key exams you might need to take when applying to universities in Qatar:
1. English Proficiency Exams: As many universities in Qatar use English as the medium of instruction, international students may need to submit test scores for exams like TOEFL or IELTS to prove their proficiency in English.
2. Qatar University English Placement Test: This test is for students applying to Qatar University who do not meet the English proficiency requirements. It is also mandatory to apply for English Foundation courses.
3. GRE/GMAT: Some graduate programs may require international students to submit GRE or GMAT scores, particularly for specialized courses like business or engineering.
How to Apply to Study in Qatar
Applying to study in Qatar is a straightforward process. However, it may vary slightly depending on the university and program you choose. Here’s a general guide to help you navigate the requirements, documents, and application process.
Eligibility Requirements
- For PhD in Qatar, students need a Master’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA.
- For Master’s degree programs, students need a Bachelor’s degree with at least a 2.8 GPA.
- Additionally, students must also submit GRE and GMAT scores for certain courses.
Admission Process
1. Choose Your Program and University: Research the universities in Qatar and select a program that suits your academic interests and career goals.
2. Check Admission Requirements: Review the specific admission requirements for your chosen university and program. This may include academic qualifications, language proficiency tests (like IELTS or TOEFL), and entrance exams.
3. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all the necessary documents, such as your academic transcripts, passport, proof of English proficiency, personal statement, recommendation letters, and any other documents required by the university.
4. Submit Your Application Online: Most universities in Qatar have an online application portal. Create an account on the university’s website, fill out the application form, upload your documents, and pay any applicable application fees.
5. Wait for an Admission Decision: After submitting your application, universities will review your documents, exam scores, and other qualifications. If you are selected, you will receive an offer letter with further instructions.
6. Apply for a Student Visa: Once you have received your admission offer, apply for a student visa through the Qatar Visa Service or through your university, depending on the institution’s procedure.
7. Prepare for Arrival: After your visa is approved, make travel arrangements, and prepare for your stay in Qatar. Some universities offer orientation programs to help you settle in.
Working While Studying in Qatar
Qatar provides opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience while pursuing their studies. Many universities in Qatar offer student employment programs that allow students to work on campus or within university-affiliated projects. These programs are designed to help students build professional skills, network, and earn extra income. Typically, students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term.
However, international students on a student visa are not permitted to work off-campus without a separate work visa. Obtaining this work visa can be a challenging process, and students must meet specific criteria to be eligible.
Cost of Studying in Qatar in 2025
The cost of studying in Qatar varies depending on the program and university. On average, tuition fees for international students range from moderate to high, with some prestigious institutions offering financial aid and scholarships to help reduce the overall expenses.
| Course Level | Cost of Studying in Qatar (QAR) |
| Undergraduate | 30,000 – 60,000 QAR per year |
| Postgraduate | 40,000 – 80,000 QAR per year |
| PhD | 50,000 – 100,000 QAR per year |
*Please note that these are average figures, and fees can vary based on the university and specific program. Additionally, students may have to pay for additional costs like accommodation, living expenses, and transportation.
Cost of Living in Qatar in 2025
Wondering how much does it cost to live in Qatar? According to NUMBEO, the cost of living in Qatar for a single person is 3,218.9 QR. On average, it is 146.2% higher than the cost of living in India for a single person. Here are more details about the average cost of living in Qatar:
| Item | Cost of Living in Qatar |
| Basic utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | 353.21 QR |
| One-way Ticket (Local Transport) | 2.00 QR |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre | 5,596.03 QR |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment Outside City Centre | 3,647.72 QR |
| Meal for 2 People | 190.00 QR |
Source: NUMBEO
Scholarships to Study in Qatar
There are multiple scholarship opportunities for international applicants coming to study in Qatar. Applicants can be selected by their embassies or they can apply directly to the university. Since these scholarships cover a part or full tuition fee and other costs, they can help students study in Qatar for free or in reduced costs. Here are some of the best scholarships for international students to study in Qatar:
- Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani Scholarship
- Tamim bin Hamad Scholarship
- GCC States Scholarships
- Outstanding Performance Scholarship
- H.H. the Emir of Qatar’s Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- GCC Qatari Certificate Scholarships
- College of Education Diploma Scholarships
- Short Scholarships for the Arabic Program for Non-Natives
- Tamim Scholarship
- Sanad Scholarship
- QF Merit Scholarships
Affordable Universities to Study in Qatar
You must have witnessed the list of all the national and international universities that are present in Qatar. As we know that education in Qatar is not the most affordable, some of the foreign universities that are present in Qatar have taken up an initiative to try and provide educational facilities to national and international students at slightly affordable rates. Here is a list of a few of the universities in Qatar that have low and very affordable tuition fees for their students, solely for your consideration.
| University in Qatar | Average tuition fee (in USD) |
| University of Qatar | 16,000 |
| Stenden Qatar University | 23,000 |
| Texas A&M University | 27,000 |
| Community College of Qatar | 20,000 |
| Qatar Aeronautical College | 15,000 |
Visa Application Process for Qatar
This segment deals with the visa application process which is an integral part of studying abroad. Being aware of the requirements before applying expedites the entire process. The requirements for the visa are as follows:
- Getting clearance from the university.
- University letter requesting a permit for residence.
- Confirmation letter.
- A passport and its copy.
- Three passport size photographs
- Proof showing sufficient means of support
Qatari Residence Permit
After entering the country as an international student, students must apply for a Qatari Residence Permit, which may be obtained via the university’s immigration office. Students must go to the medical commission for blood and physical test as part of the application process for a residency visa. Students must submit their documentation to the University in order for the entrance visa to be converted to a Qatari resident permit. The documents required for the Qatari residence permit are listed below:
- University application confirmation page
- A valid copy of passport
- Affidavit and a valid Qatar ID card/passport copy of financial sponsor.
- Proof of financial reports/statements that indicate the financial status of the sponsor who will bear the study and living expenses of the students during his/her stay in Qatar.
- Health certificate
- Insurance certificate or details
- Certificate of good conduct issued by the relevant authority
- Letter of approval from the students’ guardian or parent
Note: The residence permit of Qatar is stamped into the students’ passport and the students will get an ID card.
High-paying Careers and Salaries in Qatar for International Students
Qatar is one of the world’s wealthiest countries, with a high GDP per capita. Driven by its vast natural gas and oil reserves, Qatar offers lucrative career opportunities across various sectors. International students pursuing degrees in these fields can expect competitive salaries. While specific figures from official government sources are limited, industry reports provide valuable insights into potential earnings.
| Career Profile | Average Annual Salary (QAR) |
| Petroleum Engineer | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Project Manager (Construction) | 150,000 – 250,000 |
| IT Manager | 180,000 – 250,000 |
| Doctor (Specialist) | 350,000 – 450,000 |
| Financial Analyst | 120,000 – 200,000 |
| Civil Engineer | 150,000 – 220,000 |
| Lawyer | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Architect | 140,000 – 210,000 |
| Marketing Manager | 180,000 – 250,000 |
| Human Resources Manager | 160,000 – 220,000 |
| Software Engineer | 160,000 – 220,000 |
| Nurse (Registered) | 120,000 – 180,000 |
| Business Consultant | 200,000 – 300,000 |
| Electrical Engineer | 140,000 – 200,000 |
| Research Scientist | 200,000 – 350,000 |
*These figures are approximate and can vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and the specific employer. It’s also important to note that salaries in Qatar are typically tax-free, which can significantly enhance the overall compensation package.
FAQs
International students in Qatar often pay the same costs as local students. Tuition costs around $20,000 per year. Tuition costs at certain colleges are charged per credit hour. A student should finish 12 credit hours every semester, which amounts to $2,600 to $3,300 USD.
Yes! Qatar is among the very few countries in the world that do not charge income tax from their citizens. It is also known as the Land of No-TAX!
Many colleges and universities have student employment programs. These are intended to provide students with real-world job experience while they are studying. Most students can work up to 20 hours per week in these programs. Foreign students, on the other hand, are not permitted to work off-campus while on a student visa.
No, it’s not! Education is not free for national and international students in Qatar except for Qatari nationals who can attend Qatar University, the nation’s only public university, for free.
This success builds on QU’s previous rankings performance, which saw the school climb from 276 in the QS World University Ranking in 2020 to 245 in 2021, thereby jumping 31 places and becoming one of the most improved universities.
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We hope after reading this blog you have gathered sufficient information about the required processes involved to study in Qatar. Are you aiming to join a top-notch educational university in Qatar? Let the experts at Leverage Edu take care of your academic journey. Book your free 30 minutes of e-counseling with the team now and get ready to step into the sparkling world that awaits you!
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