Study in Dubai
Dubai is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education system, diverse programs, and rich cultural heritage. Choosing to study in Dubai can open doors to a bright future.
Why Study in Dubai?
Here are some key reasons why many students choose Dubai for higher education:
- Top Ranked Universities: Dubai is home to several top ranked universities, offering excellent academic programs.
- Wide Range of Courses: Dubai universities offer diverse courses in various fields, allowing students to find the perfect program suited to their interests.
- Strong Career Prospects: Dubai’s strategic location in the Middle East provides excellent job opportunities, especially in sectors like finance, tourism, and technology.
- Advanced Research Opportunities: Dubai universities are known for their cutting-edge research, giving students the chance to work with top professors and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Financial Support: Many universities provide scholarships, financial aid, and assistantships to help international students fund their education.
Degrees, Duration, and Post-Study Work Rights (PSWR)
Qualification | Duration | PSWR | Average Fee (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
Associate Degree | 2 years | Up to 1 year | AED 30,000 – AED 60,000 |
Bachelor’s Degree | 3-4 years | Up to 1 year | AED 50,000 – AED 100,000 |
Master’s Degree | 1-2 years | Up to 1 year | AED 70,000 – AED 150,000 |
Doctorate/PhD | 3-5 years | University-specific | University-specific |
Costs of Studying in Dubai
- Tuition Fees: AED 30,000 to AED 150,000 per year depending on the program and university.
- Living Expenses: AED 8,000 to AED 15,000 per month.
Academic Intakes and Application Deadlines
Most Dubai universities have two main intakes:
Intake | Start Month | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
Fall | September | March – June |
Spring | January | September – December |
Popular Programs to Study in Dubai
Many students choose Dubai to study in fields such as:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business Management
- Psychology
- Life Sciences
- Economics
- Finance
Top Universities in Dubai
According to QS World University Rankings 2024, here are some of the top universities in Dubai:
Rank | Institution | QS Ranking 2024 (Global) |
|---|---|---|
1 | University of Dubai | 351 |
2 | American University in Dubai | 601 |
3 | Zayed University | 701 |
4 | University of Wollongong in Dubai | 801 |
5 | Heriot-Watt University Dubai | 901 |
Student Visa Checklist
To apply for a Dubai student visa, you’ll need:
- Valid Passport
- Admission Letter
- Visa Appointment Confirmation
- Financial Documents (like bank statements showing proof of funds)
- Academic Transcripts
- Standardized Test Scores (if required)
English and Standardized Test Requirements
- IELTS or TOEFL is commonly accepted by Dubai universities.
- SAT or ACT is required for undergraduate programs.
- GMAT or GRE might be needed for graduate programs, especially in business and research fields.
Work Opportunities for International Students
International students can work while studying in Dubai through various programs:
- Student Jobs: Part-time work opportunities are available, typically up to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
- Internships: Gain practical experience while studying, often arranged through your university.
- PSWR: After graduation, you may be eligible for a work permit that allows you to stay and work in Dubai.
Dubai – Admission and Visa Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Application Preparation
- Free Counselling: Get personalized advice and guidance on selecting the right university for you.
- Document Submission: Provide photocopies of the following:
- Academic certificates/transcripts
- Professional certificates (if applicable)
- Passport copies
- Two passport-sized photos
Step 2: Attestation and Document Submission
- Document Attestation: Have all academic documents attested or notarized by the relevant institution, educational board, or foreign ministry (as per the university’s requirements).
- Postgraduate Applicants: Submit a CV, 2 Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and work experience certificates (if required by the university).
- Financial Documents: Provide bank solvency certificates in line with the institution’s requirements.
- Application Fees: Pay the non refundable university application fee and, if necessary, the courier fee.
Step 3: Admission Confirmation
- The institution may take several weeks to confirm your admission.
- Once accepted, you will receive your admission documents.
Step 4: Sponsor and Financial Documentation
- Sponsor Requirements: Submit the sponsor’s documents. While anyone can act as a sponsor, a close relative is preferred.
- Financial Proof: Show proof of funds equivalent to 1 year of tuition + living expenses in the sponsor’s bank account, maintained for at least 3 to 4 months.
- Sponsor Documents: These may include:
- Bank certificate/statement
- TIN certificate
- Salary certificate
- Job certificate
- Property/revenue documents
- Affidavit of financial supp rt
- We will guide you through this process based on the sponsor’s income source and requirements.
Final Step: Visa Application and Post-Visa Process
- Visa Application: Once all documents are ready, submit your visa application.
- Visa application fee (varies by consulate).
- After Visa Approval:
- Open a student file at any bank and transfer the first semester’s tuition fees to the university.
- We will assist you with the entire post-visa process, including travel arrangements, accommodation, pick-up, and orientation.
