Scholarships at United Arab Emirates University offer an unparalleled chance for students from all over the world to pursue their academic goals in a dynamic and multicultural setting.
| Host Country | UAE |
| Host Institute | United Arab Emirates University |
| Level | Undergraduate, Masters, and P.hd |
| Eligible Nationality | All Nationalities |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Closing Date | Undergraduate: May, June, and July Graduate Scholarships: January/Feb Graduate Assistantship: Any time |
Introduction
For many bright international students aspiring to study in the Middle East, the international scholarships at United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) present an exceptional opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies in one of the region’s top-ranked academic institutions. Located in Al Ain and established in 1976, UAEU stands as the UAE’s flagship university, offering cutting-edge programs in STEM, health sciences, humanities, and business.
The university has established an impressive portfolio of scholarships, fellowships, and graduate assistantships to attract and retain top-tier international talent. Whether you’re a high-achieving high school graduate, an ambitious master’s applicant, or a motivated Ph.D. candidate, UAEU has designed several financial aid schemes to support your academic journey.
Types of International Scholarships, Fellowships, and Assistantships at UAEU
1. Undergraduate Merit-Based Scholarships
UAEU provides a range of competitive scholarships for international undergraduate students. These are merit-based and are awarded according to academic performance, standardized test scores, and English language proficiency.
A. Full Tuition Waiver (Type A Scholarship)
- Eligibility:
- Minimum high school average of 97% or equivalent.
- IELTS score of 7.0 or equivalent in TOEFL/EmSAT.
- Must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.8 during studies.
- Benefits:
- Full waiver of tuition fees throughout the academic program.
- Renewable every semester based on performance.
- Access to academic advising and mentorship.
B. 75% Tuition Waiver (Type B Scholarship)
- Eligibility:
- High school average between 95% – 96.9%.
- IELTS score of 6.5 – 7.0.
- GPA maintenance requirement of 3.7.
- Benefits:
- 75% discount on tuition fees.
- Covers most academic expenses aside from accommodation.
C. 50% Tuition Waiver (Type C Scholarship)
- Eligibility:
- High school average of 90% – 94.9%.
- IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
- Maintain a GPA of 3.6.
- Benefits:
- Half the tuition is waived.
- Ideal for students with academic promise but lower scores.
2. Chancellor’s Fellowship
This is a highly prestigious and fully funded scholarship aimed at exceptional international postgraduate students.
Key Features:
- Open to: Master’s and Ph.D. applicants in priority research areas.
- Eligibility:
- Strong academic record (GPA ≥ 3.5).
- Statement of research interest aligned with UAE national priorities (e.g., AI, space science, sustainability).
- Two recommendation letters.
- Benefits:
- Full tuition coverage.
- Monthly stipend.
- Research funding and lab access.
- Priority for accommodation on campus.
- Possible internship opportunities with UAE government or industry.
The Chancellor’s Fellowship is the centerpiece of UAEU’s strategy to build global partnerships and advance cutting-edge research.
3. Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA)
Graduate Research Assistantships are offered to master’s and Ph.D. students who work closely with faculty on ongoing research projects.
Responsibilities:
- Assist in literature reviews, data collection, laboratory work, or writing research papers.
- Contribute to conferences or academic publications.
Benefits:
- Full or partial tuition waiver.
- Monthly stipend ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 5,000.
- Access to modern research facilities and resources.
- Priority housing and insurance.
- Valuable experience for academic and industry careers.
Assistantships are usually tied to funded research projects under the supervision of UAEU faculty members.
4. Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTA)
Graduate Teaching Assistantships provide opportunities for graduate students to assist professors in teaching undergraduate courses.
Responsibilities:
- Teaching support (e.g., grading, lab supervision).
- Student consultations and tutorial sessions.
- Development of course materials.
Benefits:
- Tuition fee support.
- Monthly stipend (based on hours of work).
- Experience in academic instruction and pedagogy.
- Increased eligibility for future academic roles.
GTA positions are available across all faculties but are especially common in Engineering, Education, and Sciences.
5. Graduate Administrative Assistantships (GAA)
These assistantships involve administrative support roles within the university’s departments, offices, or centers.
Responsibilities:
- Administrative support for events, documentation, or communication.
- Liaison between academic units and students.
- Help coordinate student activities.
Benefits:
- Tuition fee assistance.
- Monthly remuneration.
- Opportunity to develop soft skills and office experience.
- Enhances employability and practical exposure.
These roles are flexible and can often be tailored around a student’s academic schedule.
6. Ph.D. Scholarships
UAEU offers fully funded scholarships to Ph.D. students from all over the world. These scholarships are especially abundant in priority fields including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Public Health
- Space Science
- Renewable Energy
- Information Technology
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Biomedical Engineering
Benefits:
- Full tuition waiver (100%).
- Monthly living stipend up to AED 8,000 depending on academic performance and supervisor grants.
- Free accommodation.
- Travel grant to attend international conferences.
- Access to UAEU’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers.
Eligibility:
- Strong master’s GPA (≥3.5).
- Approved research proposal.
- Publications or prior research experience is an advantage.
Application Process and Deadlines
The application process for the international scholarships at United Arab Emirates University involves the following steps:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose Your Program: Visit the UAEU website and select an undergraduate or graduate program.
- Review Eligibility Criteria: Check scholarship type requirements.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Passport
- Academic Transcripts
- English Proficiency Test (IELTS/TOEFL/EmSAT)
- Statement of Purpose
- CV or Resume
- Recommendation Letters (usually 2)
- Research Proposal (for graduate programs)
- Apply Online: Use UAEU’s online admissions portal.
- Submit the Scholarship Application: This is often within the same admission form, but some fellowships require separate applications.
- Interview (if required): Some graduate programs may include an academic interview or supervisor approval.
- Track Application Status.
Application Deadlines:
- Undergraduate Programs: Apply by June 30 for Fall intake.
- Master’s Programs: January
- Ph.D. Programs: January/February
- Graduate Assistantship Opportunities: Rolling deadlines, based on departmental needs.
Check specific college/program pages for updates.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply Early: Positions are competitive and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Align with National Priorities: Emphasize UAE Vision 2031 themes like sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation in your proposal.
- Focus on Academic Excellence: Secure high scores in high school or previous degrees.
- Highlight Leadership and Research: Mention any community service, innovation projects, or prior publications.
- Strong Recommendations: Get LORs from faculty members or professionals who know your academic work well.
- Polish Your Statement: Be clear about why UAEU is your first choice and how you can contribute to its academic ecosystem.
Student Testimonials
“The Ph.D. fellowship I received not only covered my tuition and living costs, but allowed me to focus fully on my AI research. I’ve already co-authored two papers with my advisor.”
– Amit Gupta, India
“My undergraduate scholarship at UAEU gave me the freedom to pursue my studies without financial stress. The campus is incredibly diverse and welcoming.”
– Amina Zaid, Morocco
“As a teaching assistant, I gained real classroom experience and confidence in public speaking. This role helped me secure a teaching position back home after graduation.”
– Zhang Wei, China
Frequently Asked Questions
Can international students apply for scholarships at UAEU?
Yes, UAEU offers multiple scholarships, fellowships, and assistantships exclusively for international students at all academic levels.
Are these scholarships renewable?
Yes, but you must maintain the GPA requirement (usually 3.6–3.8) and full-time enrollment.
Can I apply for more than one type of scholarship?
Yes. You may qualify for both a tuition-based scholarship and a research assistantship or fellowship, subject to university approval.
Do scholarships cover accommodation?
Some scholarships, especially at the Ph.D. level, include free accommodation. Undergraduate scholarships may not always include housing.
Conclusion
The international scholarships at United Arab Emirates University are not only generous but also strategically designed to attract the world’s brightest minds. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate excellence, master’s research, or Ph.D.-level innovation, UAEU provides full financial support, mentorship, and global academic exposure.
From fellowships and research assistantships to full tuition waivers, UAEU is committed to building a thriving international student community while supporting the UAE’s broader vision for a knowledge-based economy.
If you’re ready to elevate your academic future in a globally connected and innovation-driven environment, United Arab Emirates University might just be your perfect destination.
International Scholarships at United Arab Emirates University official website
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