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.

Programs and specialties

Bachelor's degreeMaster's degreeDoctoral studies

Специальности

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.

Our services

MentoringSupport from a mentor throughout the entire training process. When every step is carefully planned and the outcome is predictable.
Full supportApplying abroad with a scholarship is a complete solution: strategy, documents, universities, and visas – all in one service.
Personal brand in a yearApplying abroad is all about marketing yourself. A personal brand can help you get not only an offer but also a scholarship of up to 100%.
Selection of activities for Personal brandA personal brand is your secret weapon when applying to universities abroad. Get a list of activities and boost your personal brand!
Universal supportAccelerated preparation for admission: save time and money without compromising results.
Consultation with an expertOne conversation can save you months. Get a professional answer to any question you have.
Consultation with a career guidance specialistOne consultation will help you better understand your strengths and choose the right profession.
Getting a student visa from the USAStudent visa for studying abroad: we'll process your application without stress and refusals.
Selection of universities and scholarshipsUniversities and scholarships abroad: we'll find what's right for you.
Admission to Foundation Programme AbroadDon't waste a year. Enroll in the Foundation program and start your journey to an international degree now.
Preparation of documentationStrong documents make a strong candidate. We'll prepare your application documents based on the university's explicit and implicit requirements.

    Admission Stories

    Поступил в Siena Heights University (США) Theater and Music с полной стипендией $170 000.
    Leonid
    I enrolled in graphic design programs in France, Italy, and Hungary, and received 100% funding at one of the universities.
    Camilla
    Admitted to a Master's program in Finance at Brandeis University and Washington University in St. Louis (USA). Funding: $80,000.
    Egor

    “Initially, I thought it was impossible, but SelfStartGlobal took care of all the difficulties. The work was done flawlessly.”

    I applied to five US universities for Fashion PR programs. I chose a strong program with good career prospects.
    Anastasia
    Nutritionology
    Diera
    She entered Siena Heights University (USA) for Theater and Music with a full scholarship for the entire period of study.
    Leila

    “An interesting insight: if you want it, there’s a place for you. You just can’t always see it yourself, but your mentor will.”

    Admitted to NYU Abu Dhabi (≈4% of admissions) with a $217,000 scholarship. Also admitted to Lynn University and Drexel University.
    Ruslan

    “I didn’t know anything, but Radmila and the team of curators explained everything quickly and clearly from the very beginning. Support was available 24/7.”

    Поступила на PhD в Columbia University (Earth & Environmental Science). Получила полное финансирование и позицию ассистента.
    Zhanna

    Feedback about working with us

    АнастасияUSAAdmission to the USA with a 100% scholarship! One of the top universities, majoring in international relations.
    Anastasia's review
    АнастасияUSAI entered the USA for international relations with a scholarship. The secret is in the Personal Brand!
    Review by Anastasia
    КамиллаЕвропаEnrolled in one of the best applied arts schools in France - LISAA. Bachelor's degree, graphic design.
    Review by Camilla
    КсенияGermanyShe entered Macromedia University for a bachelor's degree in acting.
    Feedback from Ksenia
    КсенияUSAI entered the USA with full funding, majoring in applied mathematics. The annual tuition will be only $81!
    Feedback from Ksenia
    РусланUAEAdmission to Business and Management at NYU ABU DHABI with a $217,000 scholarship!
    Review by Ruslan
    ЭлинаUSAAdmission to the USA with 100% scholarship after 2 unsuccessful independent attempts!
    Elina's review
    ЛеонидUSAAdmission to the USA for a master's degree in theater and music with a scholarship of $170,000.
    Review by Leonid

    Read also

    Study Abroad: How to Apply and What to Expect After GraduationDreaming of studying abroad, but filled with questions and doubts? We'll explore how to apply to a foreign university, what you'll encounter during your studies, and what awaits you afterward.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    Top 7 Universities in the World: How to Enter a Prestigious UniversityAre the world's top universities a dream or an overrated myth? We explain how to get into a prestigious university, what big names really offer, and whether chasing rankings at any cost is worth it.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин
    What documents are needed to study abroad and how to prepare themYour dream of studying abroad can be dashed by red tape if you don't know the rules. In this article, we explore what documents are actually required and what admissions committees at foreign universities look for.
    Время чтения:
    0 мин