Unlocking Scholarships in Dubai

Scholarships in Dubai have become a gateway for ambitious students to access world-class education without financial strain. As one of the fastest-growing education hubs, Dubai attracts students from over 140 countries each year. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, management, design, or medicine — Dubai offers generous financial aid packages to make your dreams a reality.

In this blog, we’ll explore:
  • Types of scholarships available in Dubai
  • Eligibility criteria for each scholarship
  • Application tips and deadlines
  • Additional benefits and cost coverage
  • Useful resources and trusted links
Ready to make your Dubai study journey more affordable? Let’s begin.

Why Choose Dubai for Higher Education?

Dubai isn't just a tourist paradise — it’s an academic powerhouse. With globally ranked universities, tax-free living, and modern infrastructure, students benefit immensely.

  • Campuses of top global universities like Heriot-Watt, University of Birmingham, and Murdoch University
  • English-medium education
  • Internship opportunities with global MNCs in Dubai
  • Culturally diverse student communities

And most importantly, financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, and tuition waivers!

Scholarships in Dubai

Why Choose Dubai for Higher Education?

Dubai offers various scholarship types tailored to different academic profiles, courses, and financial needs.

Scholarships in Dubai

1. Merit-Based Scholarships in Dubai

These are awarded based on:

  • Academic performance (above 85% or GPA ≥ 3.5)
  • Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL)
  • Leadership, sports, or cultural achievements
    Popular Institutions Offering Merit Scholarships:
  • University of Wollongong Dubai: 15%–50% tuition waiver
  • Middlesex University Dubai: Up to 40% off on tuition
  • American University in Dubai (AUD): Scholarships for top 10% applicants

👉 Check full list here: Study in Dubai – Scholarships Info

2. Need-Based Scholarships

These are designed for students who face genuine financial constraints. Documentation like family income, bank statements, and recommendation letters are typically required.

    Examples:

  • Canadian University Dubai Financial Hardship Fund
  • Murdoch University Dubai – Financial Support Grant

💡 Tip: Apply early, as need-based scholarships have limited seats!

Scholarships in Dubai
Scholarships in Dubai

3. Sports Scholarships in Dubai

For students excelling in national/international sports events.

Institutes Offering Sports-Based Scholarships:

  • Heriot-Watt University Dubai
  • University of Birmingham Dubai
  • Emirates Aviation University

Benefits include up to 50% fee waivers, sports club memberships, and training access.

4. Women-in-STEM Scholarships

To promote gender diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math fields, many Dubai universities offer exclusive scholarships for female candidates.

Top Picks:

  • SP Jain School of Global Management – Women Empowerment Fund
  • University of Dubai – Women in Technology Scholarship

These grants not only help reduce tuition costs but also promote career development through mentorship programs.

sport-image
Scholarships in Dubai

5. Government Scholarships in Dubai

Some UAE government agencies offer partial or full tuition coverage for international students.

Popular Government Scholarships:

  • Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarship
  • Emirates Foundation Scholarships for Excellence

These are highly competitive and focus on academic excellence, leadership skills, and social contributions.

📎 For latest updates, refer to TGICET Blog or TGEAPCET Blog

📜 Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

Though each scholarship has its own set of conditions, common eligibility criteria include:

✅ General Eligibility:

  • High school completion (with transcripts)
  • Minimum GPA or percentage requirement (typically >70%)
  • Valid IELTS/TOEFL scores (as per institution policy)
  • Offer letter from Dubai-based university
  • Strong statement of purpose (SOP)
  • Letters of recommendation (1–2)
Scholarships in Dubai

✅ Special Criteria (for some scholarships):

  • Proof of financial need
  • Sports certificates or portfolios
  • National ID/passport copy
  • Involvement in community service
Scholarships in Dubai

🎯 Note: Scholarships are generally open to students from all countries. No specific nationality gets preference or more reimbursement.

  1. Shortlist the university and check scholarship availability
  2. Apply for admission and receive conditional/confirmed offer letter
  3. Fill out the scholarship application form (usually online)
  4. Attach required documents: transcripts, passport, SOP, etc.
  5. Submit within deadlines (typically 3–6 months before course start)
  6. Attend interviews or submit additional essays, if required
  7. Wait for results (email confirmation + offer letter update)
Sl.No University Application Deadline Scholarship Deadline
1 Heriot-Watt July 30, 2025 August 10, 2025
2 University of Birmingham August 15, 2025 September 1, 2025
3 AUD Rolling August 31, 2025
4 SP Jain June 25, 2025 July 15, 2025

⏰ Pro Tip: Apply at least 3–6 months before your intake begins.

💡 Extra Tips to Secure a Dubai Scholarship

  • Craft a powerful SOP and Resume
  • Take IELTS or TOEFL seriously – better scores = more opportunities
  • Showcase extracurricular activities and leadership
  • Don’t hesitate to apply for multiple scholarships
  • Stay updated via reliable platforms like Edu9 Study in Dubai

Most Dubai scholarships provide:

  • 15%–100% tuition fee waiver
  • Some may cover accommodation, books, or transport allowance
  • Rarely do they cover full living costs (₹6–10 lakhs/year approx.)

Hence, always budget wisely and confirm coverage terms before finalizing.

  • Academic transcripts
  • Passport-sized photograph
  • Copy of passport/visa
  • SOP (Statement of Purpose)
  • LOR (Letter of Recommendation)
  • IELTS/TOEFL scorecard
  • Proof of extracurriculars (certificates, medals)
  • Financial documents (for need-based)

📌 Use this checklist when applying to avoid rejection due to missing files!