The Khalifa University Scholarship 2025-2026 is fully funded and available to international students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees. It covers tuition fees, provides medical insurance, offers support to attend international research conferences, and even includes a generous monthly stipend of up to AED 40,000.
Khalifa University is a prestigious, research-driven institution offering a range of programs in science, engineering, and medicine. With three colleges, 18 research centers, and 17 departments, the university is committed to evolving alongside the UAE’s rapidly developing national goals. It plays a key role in fostering the innovation needed for the country’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy.
In June 2021, Khalifa University made an impressive leap in the QS World University Rankings, moving up 28 spots from 211th to 183rd, becoming the first UAE university to rank in the world’s top 200.
The Khalifa University Scholarship 2025 Overview
- Level of Study: Masters / PhD
- Institution: Khalifa University
- Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Program Duration:
- Master’s Degree (Full-time): 2 years
- Master’s Degree (Part-time): 3 years
Khalifa University Scholarship Degree Programs
Master’s Programs:
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Engineering Systems and Management
- Information Security
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Sustainable Critical Infrastructure
- Water and Environmental Engineering
- Engineering by Research
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Engineering
- Computing and Information Science
- International and Civil Security
- Applied Chemistry
- Petroleum Geoscience
Doctoral Programs:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Infrastructure and Environmental Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Engineering Systems and Management
- Material Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Nuclear Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Robotics
- Multidisciplinary Engineering
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Khalifa University Scholarship Benefits
For Master’s Students:
- Full tuition coverage
- Free textbooks
- Accommodation for full-time students
- Medical insurance for full-time international students
- Flights between home country and Abu Dhabi for eligible students
- UAE visa application fee coverage
For PhD Students:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend of AED 20,000, with an additional AED 20,000 based on scholarship progress
- Free textbooks
- Support for attending international research conferences
- Medical insurance
- Flights between home country and Abu Dhabi for eligible students
- UAE visa application fee coverage
After graduation, PhD students are expected to work with Khalifa University or a designated organization for a period equivalent to their studies.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Khalifa University Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Language: English proficiency is required.
- Eligible Countries: Open to all nationalities.
For Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree
- English Proficiency Certificate
- Admission interview
For PhD Programs:
- Master’s degree
- Research statement (500-1,000 words)
- Admission interview
Students can apply either full-time or part-time. Full-time students must take 3-4 courses per semester (9-12 credit hours), while part-time students must take 2 courses per semester (6 credit hours).
Khalifa University Scholarship Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Khalifa University Scholarship 2025 is April 30, 2025. Make sure to submit your application before this date to be considered!
How to Apply for the Khalifa University Scholarship?
Here’s how you can apply:
1. Create an account [click here].
2. Complete the application form and upload the required documents:
- Certified copies of Bachelor’s/Master’s degree certificates
- Equivalency certificate (for graduates from non-UAE institutions)
- Official transcript with a grading scale
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or EmSAT)
- GRE score report
- Detailed CV
- Passport-style photograph
- Valid passport and UAE visa (if applicable)
- Family Book (for UAE nationals)
- Valid UAE ID (for residents in the UAE)
- Statement of Purpose (500-1,000 words)
- Research Statement (for PhD applicants only)
For more details, you can visit the official Khalifa University Scholarship page.
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Khalifa University Scholarship winning tips to increase your chances
1. Start Early and Stay Organized
Scholarships like this one require a variety of documents, from transcripts to letters of recommendation. Starting early ensures you have ample time to gather everything without rushing. Keep track of deadlines, document requirements, and application steps to avoid missing anything critical.
2. Tailor Your Statement of Purpose
Your Statement of Purpose is one of the most crucial parts of the application. It should clearly outline your academic and career goals and how Khalifa University aligns with them. Be specific about why you’re interested in your chosen program and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your field.
3. Highlight Research Experience
Khalifa University is research-intensive, so having previous research experience can be a huge advantage. If you’ve been involved in any academic projects, research papers, or industry-related work, highlight them in your application. Show how your research interests align with the university’s focus.
4. Focus on Academic Excellence
The Khalifa University Scholarship is highly competitive, so having a strong academic record is important. If your grades aren’t as high as you’d like, consider emphasizing other achievements, such as relevant work experience, internships, or extracurricular activities.
5. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation
Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, research potential, and personal qualities. Ensure they highlight specific instances where you excelled in academics, research, or leadership.
6. Prepare for the Interview
If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited for an interview. Prepare thoroughly by practicing common questions, researching the university’s programs, and being ready to discuss your academic journey and goals. Show enthusiasm and confidence.
7. Meet English Proficiency Requirements
Ensure that your English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or EmSAT) meet the required standards. If you’re unsure of your level, take the test early to leave time for improvement if necessary.
8. Show Commitment to Innovation
Khalifa University emphasizes innovation and contributing to the UAE’s knowledge-based economy. Highlight any entrepreneurial endeavors, innovative projects, or forward-thinking ideas that showcase your ability to contribute to future advancements in your field.
9. Present a Strong Research Statement (PhD Applicants)
If you’re applying for a PhD, your Research Statement should demonstrate a clear research direction and show how it fits into the university’s current initiatives. Make sure it’s well-structured, with a focus on innovation and how you plan to contribute to your chosen field.
10. Ensure All Documents Are Accurate and Complete
Double-check that all your documents are correct, and don’t leave anything out. Missing or incorrect documentation can lead to delays or even disqualification.
History of Khalifa University
Khalifa University was established in 2007 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as part of a strategic initiative by the government to diversify the country’s economy beyond oil and gas. Named after the UAE’s President, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the university was founded with the goal of building a leading research and academic institution that would focus on science, technology, and engineering.
Initially, Khalifa University focused on undergraduate programs in engineering. However, it expanded rapidly to offer a wide range of postgraduate programs and established itself as a center of research and innovation. In 2017, the university underwent a significant transformation when it merged with The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology and the Petroleum Institute, two other leading institutions in the UAE. This merger positioned Khalifa University as a comprehensive research-intensive university.
Over the years, the university has grown into one of the top-ranked institutions in the region and internationally. In 2022, it became the first UAE university to rank within the top 200 in the QS World University Rankings, placing it on the global academic map.
Khalifa University plays a key role in supporting the UAE’s vision to transition into a knowledge-based economy by focusing on cutting-edge research in sectors like aerospace, nuclear energy, robotics, and artificial intelligence. It is home to three research institutes and several research centers, all contributing to the UAE’s innovation ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Khalifa University Scholarship?
The Khalifa University Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, UAE. It covers tuition, medical insurance, and accommodation, and provides a monthly stipend, along with other benefits.
Who is eligible for the Khalifa University Scholarship?
The scholarship is open to international students from all countries. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree for a master’s program or a master’s degree for a PhD program. They also need to meet English proficiency requirements and pass the admission interview.
What programs are covered under the Khalifa University Scholarship?
Khalifa University offers a wide range of master’s and PhD programs in fields such as Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and more. Doctor of Medicine (MD) programs are also available.
Is the Khalifa University Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, the Khalifa University Scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, medical insurance, flights to and from the UAE, textbooks, and provides a monthly stipend. For PhD students, there is an additional monthly allowance based on performance.
How do I apply for the Khalifa University Scholarship?
To apply for the Khalifa University Scholarship, you need to create an account on the official website, fill out the application form, and submit the required documents such as academic transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, a research proposal (for PhD applicants), and English proficiency test scores.
What is the monthly stipend for the Khalifa University Scholarship?
For master’s students, the Khalifa University Scholarship offers a monthly stipend of up to AED 40,000. For PhD students, the base stipend is AED 20,000, with an additional allowance of AED 20,000 based on scholarship performance criteria.
Are part-time students eligible for the Khalifa University Scholarship?
Yes, part-time students can apply for the scholarship, but they must meet specific requirements. Part-time students need to register for 2 courses each semester, equivalent to 6 credit hours.
Does the Khalifa University Scholarship cover accommodation?
Yes, the scholarship provides free accommodation for eligible full-time students. Accommodation is provided on campus for international students studying full-time.
Can I apply for multiple programs with the Khalifa University Scholarship?
Yes, you can apply for multiple programs; however, you must meet the specific requirements for each program and submit the necessary documents accordingly.
Conclusion
The Khalifa University Scholarship offers an incredible opportunity for students around the world to pursue advanced studies in the heart of the UAE. With full funding, extensive research opportunities, and a wide range of programs, it’s the perfect pathway for those looking to make a significant impact in science, engineering, and beyond. If you’re passionate about innovation and academic excellence, don’t miss your chance to apply for this life-changing scholarship. Take that step towards your future and make your mark at one of the UAE’s top universities!