Education in the UAE for foreigners

Culture
The UAE combines Arab traditions and a modern way of life. Islamic values ​​are respected here, but at the same time the country is open to the cultures of the world - dozens of nationalities and religions peacefully coexist.
Climate
The climate in the UAE is hot and dry: in summer the temperature often exceeds +40°C, in winter - comfortable +20–25°C. Modern infrastructure helps to easily adapt to weather conditions.
Economy
The UAE is one of the leading economies in the region. In addition to oil, technology, finance, tourism and education are actively developing. The country attracts investments, startups and offers a high standard of living.
10 millionpopulation size
88%percentage of foreigners
97%literacy level
top-10safest countries
120universities

Peculiarities of education in the UAE

Most universities in the UAE are branches of leading global universities: New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), American University in Dubai (AUD), etc. The quality of education meets international standards, and the diploma is no different from a diploma obtained, for example, in the UK.

The campuses of the universities are also attractive – modern, equipped, with libraries, laboratories, sports complexes, computer rooms. There is everything for mastering the university program and self-education. There are also cafes (canteens) on the territory of the universities, where students are fed tasty and varied food.

Duration of training
Bachelor's degree (Undergraduate Degree) – from 3 to 4 years

Specialized programs (engineering, architecture) require an additional year of study.
Master's Degree – 1 to 2 years

You can enroll in a master’s degree program with a bachelor’s degree in a relevant specialty.
Doctoral Degree/PhD – 3 to 5 years

The length of study depends on the area of ​​study, the student’s progress and the requirements of the program.
Professional and certification courses – from 2-3 months to a year

The duration of training also depends on the specifics of the course and its intensity.
Foundation Programs

They are designed to prepare students for university entrance and last for 1 academic year.

Prospects for International Students

The UAE is home to accredited branches of universities from all over the world, so students can get an English degree without visiting the UK or the US, and the cost of tuition will be lower. But this is not the only advantage.

Why you should apply to the UAE:

From most CIS countries you can get to Dubai without transfers – there are direct flights, which is convenient for children and parents.

Parents can visit their children whenever they want – the country has a visa-free regime for parents for up to 90 days.

There are exchange programs when students from Dubai universities go to study for a year in other countries: Australia, the USA, etc.

Universities have 2 intakes (student intakes): September and January, which is also convenient.

Universities and the state do not spare scholarships; if you want funding, it is not difficult to obtain.

Dubai, where foreigners most often come to study, is home to offices of international corporations, including Google. There is a chance to get an internship there and stay for permanent work.

Parents can rest assured when sending their child to the UAE. This is a country with a high standard of living, where alcohol is prohibited by the state and crime is virtually zero. Instead, there are excellent conditions for studying and living, great prospects for a career and building your own business.

How to apply in UAE

What do foreigners need to do to enroll in Dubai? First, you need to decide on a specialty and university. Then you should create a personal strategy for admission with a scholarship – from preparing documents and passing exams to building a Personal Brand. And then start implementing it, which will take about 8 months – 2 years.

1
Choosing an educational institution and program

The UAE has many universities, colleges and specialized institutes offering undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in business, engineering, science, arts and more.
2
Admission requirements

To apply for a bachelor’s degree, you will need a high school diploma (certificate) and exam results: SAT, ACT or equivalent. For master’s and doctoral programs – GRE or GMAT results, recommendations and a motivation letter.

Some universities have entrance exams, interviews and portfolio submissions.
3
Knowledge of language

Most programs are presented in English; foreigners must provide evidence of their English proficiency with TOEFL, IELTS, etc. certificates.
4
Financial confirmation

International students must prove that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition and living expenses by providing bank statements, scholarship certificates or sponsorship letters.
5
Submitting applications

Deadlines depend on the educational institution and program, and can be 1 or 2 times a year.

Cost of education for foreigners

The cost of studying in the UAE for international students varies greatly depending on the institution, the program of study, the level of education (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) and even the emirate in which the university is located.

Cost depending on the program:
  • Undergraduate: From AED 37,500 to AED 75,000 per academic year (approximately $10,200 to $20,400). Exact prices depend on the specialty, with engineering and medical programs being more expensive.
  • Postgraduate: From AED 55,000 to AED 90,000 for the entire course of study (approximately $15,000 to $24,500). MBA and other specialized postgraduate programs reach AED 120,000 and above.
  • Doctorate (PhD): From AED 40,000 to AED 90,000 per year.

To offset the costs, we help students obtain scholarships ranging from 50% to 100%. In Dubai, you can get full or partial funding from the university and the government.

Scholarships for foreigners

There are different types of scholarships and financial aid available for international students at UAE universities. To receive funding, you need to choose the appropriate type of scholarship and apply.

Types of scholarships in the UAE:
UAE Government Scholarships Плюсик

For international students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievements and have the potential to contribute to the country’s development. An example of a scholarship from the government is the UAE Government Scholarship Program.

University scholarships Плюсик

Institutional scholarships are available to students with outstanding academic achievement, athletic or artistic talent, and those with demonstrated financial need.

Scholarships for achievements Плюсик

Awarded for exceptional academic, athletic or artistic achievement, these scholarships cover part or all of the cost of tuition and may offer free accommodation or the opportunity to participate in research projects.

Research Fellowships Плюсик

For students studying in specific fields: science, engineering, medicine or business. Application requirements include academic achievement, research potential or interest in a specific area of ​​study.

95% of our students receive a scholarship from 50 to 100% thanks to our unique algorithm. The total amount of scholarships for our students has already exceeded $25 million. Want to enter the UAE with funding – start with a consultation.

Accommodation and adaptation

Adaptation in Dubai is different for everyone. The rhythm of the largest metropolis requires getting used to, and communication with other students is the best way to do this.

By the way, more than half of the students, and not only students in Dubai, are English-speaking foreigners. In Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, housing is more expensive than in other cities. But since top universities are located in large cities, let’s see how much housing costs here.

Accommodation options:

Student dormitories

Cost — from 1,000 to 3,000 dirhams per month. Convenient location near universities, comfortable living conditions, communication with other students — there are many advantages.

Apartment rental

Price – from 2,000 to 10,000 dirhams per month, depending on the area, area of ​​the property and comfort.

Room in an apartment or private house

Cost: 1,000 to 2,000 dirhams per month. An economical option, but there is a downside – limited privacy.

Education in the UAE means prestigious degrees, modern campuses, and the opportunity to study in an international environment, grow in one of the fastest growing regions in the world, and build a career without borders. This country opens its doors to talented students from all over the world – all you have to do is take the first step.

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Preparation of documentation
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