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Unlock your potential at one of the region’s leading universities. The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is offering prestigious Scholarships for International Students for the 2026-27 academic year, covering outstanding applicants across various Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. These competitive scholarships can provide substantial financial support, ranging from partial to full tuition fee waivers, and for graduate students, may include a monthly stipend, health insurance, and research bonuses, enabling you to pursue your academic goals in a dynamic environment without the burden of high costs. This blog serves as your comprehensive guide to the application process, detailing the specific eligibility criteria, the extensive coverage, and the overall benefits of these life-changing opportunities.
This Blog Includes:
- Types of United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
- List of United Arab Emirates University Scholarships for International Students
- Details of Top United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
- Tips for a Successful United Arab Emirates University Scholarship Application
- Why Study at the United Arab Emirates University?
- FAQs
Types of United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) offers a variety of scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships designed to support both high-achieving local and international students across undergraduate and graduate levels.
| Level of Study | Scholarship Type/Name | Primary Focus |
| Undergraduate | Full Tuition Scholarship | High academic merit (100% Tuition Waiver) |
| Undergraduate | Partial Tuition Scholarship | High academic merit (e.g., 50% Tuition Waiver) |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | PhD Scholarship (All Nationalities) | Full-time, research-intensive PhD studies in priority sectors (Fully Funded) |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | Graduate Research Scholarship | Full-time research students working on specific projects (Fully Funded/Highly Funded) |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | Chancellor’s Fellowship | Merit-based support for excellent graduate students (Partial Tuition Waiver) |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) | Support via work on research projects |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | Graduate Teaching Assistantship (GTA) | Support via work on teaching/lab activities |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | Graduate Administrative Assistantship (GAA) | Support via work on administrative tasks |
List of United Arab Emirates University Scholarships for International Students
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) offers competitive scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships for international students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, primarily based on academic merit and research alignment with UAE national priorities.
Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students
These are primarily tuition-fee waivers for outstanding new international students.
| Scholarship Type | Coverage | Eligibility Requirements |
| Full Tuition Scholarship (100% Waiver) | 100% tuition fee waiver (does not cover housing, admission fees, etc.). | Outstanding High School Scores: Grade 12 score (or equivalent) of ≥ 98% (criteria may vary slightly by college). High Proficiency Scores: IELTS ≥ 7.5 or equivalent, and high scores in EmSAT Math/SAT Math (varies by college). |
| Partial Tuition Scholarship (75% Waiver) | 75% discount on tuition fees (does not cover housing, admission fees, etc.). | Excellent High School Scores: Grade 12 score (or equivalent) of ≥ 97%. High Proficiency Scores: IELTS ≥ 7.0 or equivalent, and required Math/Arabic scores (varies by college). |
| Partial Tuition Scholarship (50% Waiver) | 50% discount on tuition fees (does not cover housing, admission fees, etc.). | High High School Scores: Grade 12 score (or equivalent) of ≥ 95%. Good Proficiency Scores: IELTS ≥ 6.5 or equivalent, and required Math/Arabic scores (varies by college). |
| Exceptional Achievement Scholarship | Typically a 100% direct discount on tuition fees only. | Exceptional abilities in innovative, artistic, athletic, or technological fields, demonstrated significant achievement, and potential leadership. |
Graduate Scholarships and Fellowships (Master’s & PhD)
These opportunities typically offer more comprehensive financial support, especially for PhD students committed to full-time research.
| Scholarship Type | Coverage | Eligibility Requirements |
| PhD Scholarship (All Nationalities) | Fully Funded: Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend (competitive amount), health insurance (if needed/UAEU sponsored visa), and research bonuses (AED 2,000-3,000). | Master’s GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0. No employment or other financial sponsorship. Dissertation topic must align with a UAE priority sector (e.g., Renewable Energy, Health, Water, Technology, Space). Must commit to full-time study/research (min. 40 hours/week). |
| Graduate Research Scholarship | Full tuition waiver and health insurance (if UAEU sponsored visa). Stipend often depends on the research project. | Master’s GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0 (for PhD applicants). Full-time enrollment. Must commit to research work (e.g., 10 hours/week) with a faculty supervisor. |
| Chancellor’s Fellowship (Merit Award) | Typically a 50% discount on tuition fees. | Excellent Academic Standing (GPA ≥ 3.8/4.0) in previous degree. Primarily for students in STEM and strategic areas of the country. Must maintain a high GPA and have no other financial sponsorship. |
| Graduate Assistantships (GRA/GTA/GAA) | Full tuition fees waiver and a monthly salary/stipend (e.g., AED 1,500 – 3,000/month). | Must be an enrolled postgraduate student. GRA (Research) is provided via sponsored projects. GTA (Teaching) and GAA (Administrative) are offered based on department needs and the student’s eligibility/workload. |
Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships in UAE for International Students
Details of Top United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Scholarships
Here are the details of the top United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) scholarships for international students, with each scholarship described in detail:
Undergraduate Full Tuition Scholarship
Undergraduate Full Tuition Scholarship is a merit-based incentive for newly admitted international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance in their high school or equivalent qualification. The key benefit is a 100% waiver of tuition fees for the duration of the student’s bachelor’s program, though it does not cover admission application fees, housing, or other miscellaneous expenses. Eligibility is stringently based on entry qualifications, requiring exceptionally high secondary school scores and very strong performance in required proficiency tests like the Academic IELTS (e.g., ≥7.5) and SAT Math (e.g., ≥730), with continuation contingent upon the student maintaining a demanding Cumulative GPA (e.g., ≥3.8/4.0) and a full-time course load.
| Benefits | Partial Funding: 100% Tuition Fee Waiver (excludes housing/application fees). |
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s |
| Eligibility | Outstanding High School Scores (e.g., ≥98% average); High English Proficiency (e.g., IELTS ≥7.5); Must maintain CGPA ≥3.8/4.0. |
| Application Process | Apply through the University’s online Undergraduate Admission System; The scholarship is granted based on entry scores. |
| Deadlines | May, June, and July for the First Semester. |
| Official Link | https://www.uaeu.ac.ae/en/admission/undergraduate-scholarships.shtml |
Graduate Research Scholarship
Graduate Research Scholarship opportunity is specifically designated for talented, full-time students in Master’s or PhD programs who will be actively involved in research projects under a faculty supervisor, making it a highly valuable award for research-focused applicants. The scholarship provides a full tuition fee waiver and usually includes health insurance for the duration of the award, with the possibility of a monthly stipend depending on the specific research project budget and the scope of work assigned. Eligibility is based on outstanding academic achievement, typically a Master’s GPA of ≥3.5/4.0 for new PhD applicants, a commitment to full-time study, and the successful arrangement of a research assignment with a supervising faculty member.
| Benefits | Full Tuition Waiver and Health Insurance. Monthly stipend often included, subject to project budget. |
| Degree Level | Master’s & PhD |
| Eligibility | Master’s GPA ≥3.5/4.0 (for PhD); Full-time enrollment; Must secure a commitment to work on a Research Project with a faculty supervisor. |
| Application Process | Apply for admission to a research-based program; Faculty member initiates the Research Assistantship application on the student’s behalf. |
| Deadlines | Varies by project and department. |
| Official Link | https://www.uaeu.ac.ae/en/cgs/scholarship.shtml |
PhD Scholarship (All Nationalities)
PhD Scholarship (All Nationalities) is the premier, fully funded scholarship for international students admitted into a UAEU PhD program, specifically designed to recruit exceptional, full-time graduate students whose dissertation topics align with the UAE’s national priority sectors, such as Renewable Energy, Water, Health, Technology, and Space. The comprehensive coverage includes a 100% tuition fee waiver for the program’s duration, a competitive monthly stipend to cover living expenses, and health insurance (if needed and sponsored by UAEU). To be eligible, applicants must possess a strong academic record, typically a Master’s GPA of ≥3.5/4.0, have no other employment or financial sponsorship, and commit to a minimum of 40 hours per week towards their studies and research, maintaining a high GPA (e.g., ≥3.3) for continuation.
| Benefits | Fully Funded: 100% Tuition Waiver, Monthly Stipend, Health Insurance, Research Bonuses. |
| Degree Level | PhD |
| Eligibility | Master’s GPA ≥3.5/4.0; No employment/other financial sponsorship; Dissertation in a UAE Priority Sector. |
| Application Process | Complete the online PhD Admission Application and a separate PhD Scholarship Application Form. |
| Deadlines | Same as PhD Admission: Typically May-July for Fall admission. |
| Official Link | https://www.uaeu.ac.ae/en/cgs/scholarship.shtml |
Chancellor’s Fellowship for Graduate Students
The Chancellor’s Fellowship is a highly competitive, merit-based award that generally offers a partial tuition fee discount, often a 50% tuition fee waiver, to attract excellent graduate students (Master’s and PhD) to the university. This fellowship prioritizes applicants in STEM and strategic areas relevant to the country’s development and is awarded based on superior academic standing, requiring an exceptionally high GPA in the student’s previous degree (e.g., ≥3.8/4.0 for initial application). Unlike the PhD Scholarship, it is primarily a tuition discount, meaning the student is typically responsible for their own living expenses, accommodation, and other fees, and they must maintain a very high CGPA (e.g., ≥3.5/4.0) for renewal.
| Benefits | Partial Funding: Typically a 50% Tuition Fee Waiver. |
| Degree Level | Master’s & PhD |
| Eligibility | Excellent Academic Standing (e.g., GPA ≥3.8/4.0); Preference for students in STEM/Strategic Fields; Must maintain a high CGPA for renewal. |
| Application Process | Usually awarded on merit during the admission process or via a separate internal application after enrollment. |
| Deadlines | Varies by semester. |
| Official Link | https://www.uaeu.ac.ae/en/cgs/scholarship.shtml |
Tips for a Successful United Arab Emirates University Scholarship Application
Securing a United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) scholarship as an international student is highly competitive, relying heavily on academic excellence, strategic alignment, and meticulous application preparation.
- Excel Academically: Achieve a Master’s GPA ≥3.5/4.0 (graduate) or High School score ≥97% (undergraduate) to meet the competitive merit threshold.
- Score High on English Tests: Ensure your IELTS/TOEFL scores are significantly above the minimum admission requirement for a competitive edge.
- Align with UAE Priorities (Graduate): For the PhD scholarship, clearly show how your research directly supports a UAE national priority sector (e.g., AI, Health, Space).
- Draft a Compelling SOP: Write a Statement of Purpose that clearly articulates your academic goals, research potential, and what you will contribute to UAEU.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders who know your work well and can write specific, glowing, and targeted letters.
- Apply Early: Submit your complete application package during the first few weeks of the opening window, as decisions are often made on a rolling basis.
- Ensure Full-Time Commitment: Be prepared to commit to full-time study and certify that you will hold no other employment during the scholarship period (especially for PhD).
- Complete All Documents: Double-check that all official transcripts, certified documents, and test scores are complete and correctly uploaded.
- Highlight Achievements Beyond GPA: Include any significant research publications, awards, or leadership roles in your CV/SOP to stand out.
- Check the Official Links: Always verify the specific eligibility criteria and deadlines on the official UAEU scholarship website before submission.
Why Study at the United Arab Emirates University?
Choosing the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) as an international student offers a blend of top-tier academic quality, a vibrant multicultural environment, and strong career prospects in a globally connected country.
- Top Global Ranking: Study at the #1 University in the UAE and one of the highest-ranked institutions globally (often Top 250 in QS).
- International Accreditation: Degrees are globally recognized and programs hold specialized international accreditations (e.g., ABET, AACSB).
- High Employability: Benefit from strong links to the job market, leading to high employability rates in the booming UAE and GCC economies.
- Generous Scholarships: Access highly competitive funding, including fully funded PhD Scholarships and substantial undergraduate tuition waivers.
- Research Focus: Engage in cutting-edge research at specialized centers focused on national priority sectors (e.g., water, energy, technology).
- Multicultural Environment: Join a cosmopolitan community with students from over 80 countries, fostering global networking.
- Strategic Location: Live and study in the UAE, a global economic and travel hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.
- World-Class Campus: Utilize modern, state-of-the-art facilities, labs, and resources on a magnificent campus in Al Ain.
- Safety and Security: Experience an exceptionally high quality of life in the UAE, known for being one of the world’s safest countries.
- Potential for UAE Residency: Outstanding graduates may qualify for the UAE’s Golden Visa (long-term residency) to enhance post-study career options.
Also Read: 8 Best Fully Funded Scholarships in UAE for International Students
FAQs
It’s possible to get a United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) scholarship as an international student, but they are highly competitive and primarily awarded based on exceptional academic merit at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Your chances depend entirely on meeting very high GPA/score requirements and, for graduate studies, aligning your work with UAE national priority sectors.
Yes, the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) does provide scholarships for research programs, particularly at the graduate level. Their top offering is the PhD Scholarship, which is fully funded and requires a commitment to full-time research aligned with national priority sectors. They also offer Graduate Research Scholarships and Graduate Assistantships to support research students.
The full form of UAE University is the United Arab Emirates University. It is the oldest and largest national university in the UAE, located primarily in the city of Al Ain. It was founded in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.The full form of UAE University is the United Arab Emirates University. It is the oldest and largest national university in the UAE, located primarily in the city of Al Ain, and was founded in 1976 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
No, education in the United Arab Emirates is not universally free for all residents. Education in government schools and public universities is provided free of charge only for UAE nationals (Emiratis) and certain other categories like GCC citizens. International students and expatriate children must generally pay tuition fees to attend private schools, which constitute the majority of the education sector, or government schools (where they may be admitted as fee-paying students under strict conditions).
Yes, the UAE has a large network of schools following the CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) curriculum. With over 100 CBSE-affiliated schools, the UAE is home to the board’s biggest overseas hub, primarily serving the extensive Indian expatriate community. These schools operate under the oversight of local education regulators like KHDA, ADEK, and SPEA, and are planning to implement the new CBSE Global Curriculum starting from April 2026.
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