The 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE offers one of the most competitive, fully funded postgraduate opportunities in the Middle East. This prestigious award supports outstanding international students pursuing master’s and doctoral programs at Khalifa University of Science and Technology—one of the leading research institutions in the United Arab Emirates.
The scholarship covers full tuition fees, an annual financial package worth AED 40,000 (approximately USD 10,890), medical insurance, accommodation support, visa processing fees, and airfare for international students. Because the award is fully integrated into the university’s admissions process, applicants do not need to submit a separate financial aid application.
To help prospective candidates qualify successfully, this expanded guide explains the scholarship structure, eligibility requirements, available financial tiers, required documents, and a step-by-step guide on how to submit a strong application.
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Post Summary
- Overview of the Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship
- Scholarship value, monthly stipend, and full funding benefits
- Eligibility criteria for master’s and PhD applicants
- Required documents for the 2026 admission cycle
- Detailed explanation of scholarship tiers
- Application timeline and submission steps
- Why international students should consider Khalifa University
Overview of the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE
The 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE aims to attract top-performing students from across the world to join the university’s advanced research and innovation ecosystem. As a science- and technology-driven institution, Khalifa University focuses on engineering, health sciences, artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, robotics, aerospace, and sustainable technologies.
For the 2026 academic year, the university has opened applications for the Fall Postgraduate Admission Cycle, covering both master’s and PhD programmes. Scholarship assessments are conducted automatically during the admissions review, and all eligible applicants are considered for available funding tiers. However, due to limited scholarship slots, meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Institution: Khalifa University of Science and Technology
- Host Country: United Arab Emirates
- Study Level: Master’s and Doctoral (PhD) Programmes
- Eligible Applicants: All international and domestic students
- Funding Type: Fully funded
- Reward Package:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend up to AED 40,000
- Accommodation allowance
- Medical insurance
- Visa sponsorship
- Flight tickets for international students
- IELTS Requirement: Not always mandatory (alternatives accepted)
- Application Deadline: March 6, 2026
Key Details of the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship
Applications for the 2026 postgraduate intake are now open. Candidates applying for master’s and PhD programmes will automatically be considered for the scholarship during the evaluation process.
Scholarship Selection Structure
Candidates are matched to a scholarship Tier, which determines the level of financial support. Assessment is based on:
- Academic merit
- Research potential
- Alignment with the university’s priority research areas
- Interview performance
- Accreditation of previous degrees
Although many students are awarded Tier One (fully funded), competition is strong, and the university prioritizes candidates with exceptional academic records and strong research statements.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE
Admission and scholarship consideration require applicants to meet the following academic and technical criteria:
1. Academic Qualifications
Applicants must hold:
- A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 for direct PhD entry; or
- A Master’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.25/4.0 in a relevant field for advanced doctoral research.
Relevant fields include engineering, science, mathematics, computing, aerospace, biomedical sciences, or related disciplines.
2. English Language Proficiency
Candidates must demonstrate one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 91
- IELTS Academic: Minimum of 6.5
- EmSAT English: Minimum of 1550
Khalifa University accepts official score reports directly from testing bodies using institutional codes.
3. Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
A minimum quantitative score of 150 is required. Applicants must complete all three GRE sections.
4. Additional Requirements
- Two referee recommendations (submitted online)
- Statement of purpose (500–1,000 words)
- Research statement for PhD applicants (500–1,000 words)
- Successful completion of the admission interview
Benefits of the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship
The scholarship tiers determine the level of funding a student receives. The highest tier (fully funded) includes the following:
1. Full Tuition Coverage
All academic fees for master’s or PhD studies are fully funded throughout the programme.
2. Monthly Allowance (Up to AED 40,000)
Awardees receive:
- Basic stipend: AED 20,000
- Additional allowance: AED 20,000 (subject to academic performance and scholarship conditions)
3. Textbook, Research, and Academic Support
The university provides access to required course materials and professional conferences (subject to approval).
4. Health and Visa Support
- Medical insurance for full-time international students
- UAE visa application processing
- Residence support for students living in Abu Dhabi
5. Airfare for International Students
Round-trip travel from the student’s home country to Abu Dhabi is provided at the beginning and end of the study programme.
6. Post-Graduation Commitment
Awardees must work with Khalifa University or a designated partner institution for a period equivalent to the duration of their study.
Required Documents for the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE
Applicants must upload clear and certified copies of the following:
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree certificates
- Academic transcripts with a grading scale
- UAE Ministry of Education Equivalency Certificate (mandatory for all international graduates)
- IELTS, TOEFL, or EmSAT English results
- GRE score report
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words)
- Passport photograph (white background)
- Valid passport copy
- UAE visa copy (if applicable)
- Khulasat Al Qaid (for UAE Nationals only)
- National ID (for residents in UAE)
- Research Statement (for all PhD applicants)
Applicants should begin early, especially the UAE Equivalency Certificate process, as it can be lengthy.
How to Apply for the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow the steps below to complete your application:
1: Select Your Programme
Choose the master’s or PhD programme that aligns with your research interests.
2: Review Admission Requirements
Check the academic, English language, and GRE criteria for your selected programme.
3: Prepare Scholarship Documents
Organize your transcripts, certificates, test scores, and personal statements.
4: Submit Your Online Application
Use the university portal accessible through the “Apply Now” button. Ensure all documents are uploaded clearly.
5: Complete the Interview Process
Eligible applicants will be invited for an online or physical interview.
6: Receive Admission and Scholarship Decision
Notifications are sent via email after the review process.
Why You Should Apply for the 2026 Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship in UAE
The scholarship is one of the most generous in the region, offering:
- World-class research facilities
- Direct access to leading scholars and industry partnerships
- A fully funded academic experience
- Excellent living and working conditions in Abu Dhabi
- Strong employability prospects after graduation
As a rapidly growing research hub, UAE provides international students with opportunities in artificial intelligence, energy, aerospace, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing—making Khalifa University a top destination for postgraduate studies.
