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Scholarships to Study in United Arab Emirates
Funding for international students in United Arab Emirates — from partial awards to fully-funded scholarships. Free to browse, with eligibility and deadlines.
▶ Open the free scholarship finder⚡ Quick answer: There are 2 well-known scholarships below for studying in United Arab Emirates as an international student. Some are fully funded (tuition plus living costs); others cover part of your tuition. Apply early — most close 6–12 months before the intake and often need a university offer first. Always confirm amounts and deadlines on each official page.
2 scholarships for United Arab Emirates
UAE Government Higher Education Scholarship — Master's · Government · Fully funded (tuition + AED 10,000/month)
International Master's students in STEM, healthcare, and strategic sectors; limited slots · Deadline: Varies (contact Ministry of Education)
Covers tuition and monthly stipend; highly selective; includes living allowance.
International Master's students in STEM, healthcare, and strategic sectors; limited slots · Deadline: Varies (contact Ministry of Education)
Covers tuition and monthly stipend; highly selective; includes living allowance.
NYU Abu Dhabi Global Scholarship — Master's · University · AED 100,000–220,000/yr (~€27,000–59,500 tuition coverage)
Master's applicants with exceptional academic and leadership potential · Deadline: May annually
Need-based and merit-based awards; NYC-caliber education in Middle East hub.
Master's applicants with exceptional academic and leadership potential · Deadline: May annually
Need-based and merit-based awards; NYC-caliber education in Middle East hub.
Types of funding you'll find in United Arab Emirates
- Government scholarships — national schemes (often the most generous and competitive), usually fully or largely funded.
- University awards — merit-based tuition discounts or scholarships offered directly by the institution, sometimes automatic with your application.
- Need-based grants — aimed at students who demonstrate financial need.
- Course or department awards — tied to a specific subject, faculty or research area.
- External / private scholarships — from foundations, companies and trusts, often for specific nationalities or fields.
How to find and win a scholarship in United Arab Emirates
- Shortlist early. Begin at least 12 months before your intake — the best awards close first.
- Check eligibility precisely. Nationality, level of study, subject and minimum grades all matter; don't waste effort on awards you can't qualify for.
- Secure your admission or nomination where the scholarship requires it — many do.
- Write a specific, story-led statement of purpose that ties your goals to what the scholarship values — build and refine yours free with our SOP guide.
- Line up strong recommendation letters early — referees usually need 2–3 weeks.
- Apply to several. Scholarships are competitive; a portfolio of applications improves your odds.
- Track every deadline and submit well before the closing date. Never pay a third party to apply on your behalf.
Frequently asked questions
- Are there scholarships to study in United Arab Emirates?
- Yes — this page lists 2 notable scholarships for international students heading to United Arab Emirates, ranging from partial tuition waivers to fully-funded awards that cover tuition and living costs.
- When should I apply for United Arab Emirates scholarships?
- Most major scholarships close 6–12 months before the course starts, and many require you to have a university offer first. Start at least a year ahead: shortlist awards, prepare your statement of purpose and recommendation letters early, and note each deadline.
- Are these scholarships free to apply for?
- Yes — browsing this list and our scholarship finder is 100% free, and reputable scholarships never charge an application fee. Each award links to its official page — never pay a third party to "apply" for you.