A comprehensive guide to
Study in UAE
The UAE has some of the best global universities, providing world-class education and tax-free earning opportunities after graduation.
22 +
Partner Institutions
480 +
Programs
Why study in UAE
The most ideal Gulf country offering exceptional global education.
World-Class Education
The UAE is home to top-tier universities that offer a wide range of courses in fields such as business, engineering, and medicine.
Cultural Diversity
The UAE is a culturally diverse country with people from all over the world living and studying together.
Modern Infrastructure
The UAE is known for its modern, well-equipped universities with state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Scholarship Opportunities
Many universities in the UAE offer scholarships to international students, making it more affordable to study there.
Career Opportunities
The UAE is a hub for many businesses and industries, offering many high-paying jobs for graduates.
Tax-Free Earnings
International students can work in the UAE without paying any income tax after completing their studies.
Study Intakes in UAE
UAE offers 3 intakes to international students – Fall, Spring, and Summer. The most popular intake in the UAE is the fall intake, offering the widest range of programs, followed by the spring intake. The least popular but available intake in the UAE is the summer intake, which only lasts for 2 months. Here is a detailed explanation of all:
| Intake | Program Availability | Application Deadline | Months |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall/September Intake | All Programs | March – May | September – December |
| Spring/January Intake | Majority Programs | August – October | January – May |
| Summer/May Intake | Selected Programs | April – May | May – August |
Study levels and disciplines
Types of Courses in UAE
Undergraduate Programs
Bachelor's Degree (3-5 years)
Undergraduate Pathway (2-4 years)
Postgraduate Programs
Master's Degree (1-3 years)
Doctoral Degree (4 years)
Explore universities & colleges
Popular Universities in UAE for Indian Students
International American University - Ras Al Khaimah Campus
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE • 3 Programmes
Tuition Fee : SGD 18000 - 18500 / year
Heriot-Watt University - Dubai Campus
Dubai, UAE • 59 Programmes
Tuition Fee : SGD 68500 - 82500 / year
Global University Systems (GUS) - University of Europe for Applied Sciences - Dubai Campus
Dubai, UAE • 26 Programmes
Tuition Fee : SGD 12700 - 53500 / year
.png)
Enquire Now
Eligibility Requirements
Academic Transcripts
English Test Scores (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE) or Medium of Instruction (MOI)
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Statement of Purpose
Application Process to Study in UAE
Select University and Program
Firstly, select the best university in the UAE based on factors such as accreditation, location, ranking, and program based on tuition fee, career prospects, and more.
Check Eligibility
After selecting the program, check the eligibility criteria like academic qualification, English proficiency, and more.
Prepare Documents
Next step is to collect required documents like academic transcripts, English language test scores, LOR, SOP, and others (if applicable).
Apply Online
Apply for your dream program with the assistance of a study abroad expert for an error-free application.
Pay Tuition Fee
Sign the offer letter once you receive it and pay the tuition fees to confirm your seat for the course.
Obtain Study Visa
The process to apply for a UAE study visa differs from that of other countries. The university you choose to study in will sponsor and process your visa.
Enquire Now
Not sure what you are looking for? Fill in the details to get a call-back.
Cost of studying in UAE
Tuition Fee
One of the biggest expenses international students incur while studying abroad is the tuition fee. The tuition fee varies depending on the university and program the student chooses. Here is an estimated tuition fee for studying in the UAE:
AED 7,000 – 102,148
Bachelor’s Degree
AED 7,000 – 129,000
Master’s Degree
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Universities in the UAE provide international students with multiple scholarships, allowing them to study without worrying about money. Here are some of the most notable ones:
| Name of University | Scholarship Name | Award Value |
|---|---|---|
| Symbiosis International University | Merit-Based Scholarship for UG and PG programs | Upto 30% of tuition fees |
| University of Europe for Applied Sciences | Retention Scholarship Discounts | Year 1 - 25% discount Year 2 - 30% discount Year 3 - 35% discount, foundation 50% discount |
| Heriot-Watt University | Undergraduate Merit Scholarship | 30% to 50% of tuition fees |
| Ajman University | Early Bird Scholarships Exclusions | Variable |
| Murdoch University | Academic Merit Scholarships | 15% to 40% of the total tuition fees |
Heriot-Watt University - Dubai Campus
Scholarships and Discounts The university recognizes the substantial investment students will m
Middlesex University - Dubai Campus
Scholarships and Grants At Middlesex University Dubai we see the importance of rewarding students
Amity University - Dubai Campus
We are pleased to offer a 30% scholarship for both UG & PG courses for Sep 2025. Also, an Early
Curtin University - Dubai Campus
Curtin University Dubai offers multiple scholarships & financial aid for international students.
Symbiosis International University - Dubai Campus
Academic Scholarships Merit-Based Scholarships for UG Programs: Marks in the las
The Woolwich Institute - Dubai Via British Education Group
Scholarship provided by the college to the international students—upto 40%
Global University Systems (GUS) - University of Europe for Applied Sciences - Dubai Campus
High Achievers Discount High Achievers Discount available to Undergraduate Non-EU Bachelor&rsqu
.webp)
Navitas Group - Murdoch University - Dubai Campus
Scholarships, Bursaries and Discounts Thinking of joining the Murdoch family? Whether you join us
Ajman University
Early Bird Scholarship Exclusions: College of Dentistry, College of Medicine, and all postgraduate p
Study Visa for UAE
To study at the top universities in the UAE, an international student can avail of 2 types of student visas: student residence visa and golden visa. A student residence visa allows students to study in the UAE for up to 1 year with an option to renew. The second visa type is a golden visa, which provides exclusive perks to the finest students, such as a validity of up to 10 years and no need for a sponsor. Some more information about both visas is as follows:
| Study Visa Type | Duration | Purpose | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Residence Visa | 1 year and can be renewed | Allowing an international student to study in the UAE for 1 year. | It is a student visa that is valid for 1 year and can be renewed by submitting proof of continuing education. |
| Golden visa | 5 or 10 years, depending on the student, and can be renewed | Allowing outstanding students to study in A-rated universities without a sponsor. | The golden visa is a long-term residence visa that allows exceptional students to study at top universities in the UAE for up to 10 years. Students must have 90% or above marks to get this visa. |
Note: Both types of visas will be issued by the educational institution where the student is going to study.
Costs of living in UAE
Living Expenses in UAE
Apart from tuition fees, international students also need to pay for living expenses in the UAE. The cost of living will depend on the type of accommodation and the city one lives in. The factors that contribute to the living costs are rent, food, transport, utilities, and other personal expenses. To cover living expenses, one can expect to pay around AED 45,800 to 82,800 per year. The following table shows the estimated cost of living in the UAE:
| Expenses | Average Monthly Cost (Approx. AED) | Average Monthly Cost (Approx. INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared apartment) | 1,500 – 3,500 | 34,000 – 79,000 |
| Travel | 300 - 500 | 6,800 – 11,300 |
| Food | 1,000 – 1,500 | 22,700 – 34,000 |
| Entertainment | 400 – 500 | 9,100 – 11,400 |
| Health Insurance | 1,600 – 3,200 (yearly) | 36,500 – 73,000 |
| Internet | 200 – 300 | 4,500 – 6,800 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, Garbage) | 400 – 600 | 9,100 – 15,000 |
Job Prospects After Studying in UAE
There are many institutes that allow master's degree students to undertake a full-time job while pursuing their studies. One of the main advantages of working in the UAE is that students don’t need to pay any income tax. After completing their studies in the UAE, international students can look for employment opportunities in various sectors. Following are the growing sectors in the UAE with high-paying jobs for international students:
| Sector | Job Roles |
|---|---|
| Oil and Gas | Petroleum Engineer, Geologist, Safety Officer |
| Construction | Project Manager, Architect, Quantity Surveyor |
| Healthcare | Healthcare Manager, Doctor, Nurse |
| Hospitality and Tourism | Tour Guide, Hotel Manager, Event Coordinator |
| Education | Lecturer, Teacher, Academic Coordinator |
| Aviation | Pilot, Cabin Crew, Aircraft Engineer |
| Real Estate | Valuation Analyst, Property Manager, Real Estate Agent |
Work Opportunities
Part-Time Work for Students
International students in the UAE can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during the academic session and 40 hours during study breaks, like holidays.
Post-Study Work Permits
International students can apply for a post-study work visa within 6 months of completing their studies.
Study in UAE - FAQ
Studying in the UAE is not expensive, as students can avail of scholarships provided by many universities.
Latest at CANAM
Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.
04 Jun
The International Education Fair
Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France, UAE
New Delhi • 11:00AM
16 May
University Visit - Northern Lights College
Study in Canada • University Visit
Patiala • 02:00PM
16 May
GEDU Services - ICN, SIU, EMA and GBS
Study in USA, Germany, France, Spain, UAE, Malta • University Visit
Vadodara • 11:00AM
Popular English Language Proficiency Exams
Not sure what you qualify for?
Take our quick eligibility check and find out all the available courses for you.
