UNITED ARAB EMIRATES · ABU DHABI
Khalifa University
public · Founded 2007 · Languages: en, ar
In short
Khalifa University is a top-ranked research institution in Abu Dhabi, UAE, offering specialized science, engineering, and medical programs. It provides various scholarships and a vibrant student life in one of the world's safest cities.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 2007
- Students
- 4,500
- International students
- 1,500
- Acceptance rate
- 20%
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–2k/yr
- Languages
- EN, AR
- Location
- Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Khalifa University of Science and Technology, located in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is a top-ranked institution offering a comprehensive range of science, engineering, and medical programs. It is dedicated to addressing the UAE's strategic challenges and contributing to a knowledge-based economy through impactful research and world-class education. The university provides a stimulating environment where students work on real-world problems under the guidance of internationally recognized faculty. Its programs are designed to equip graduates with highly sought-after skills and knowledge for today's global job market. With a strong focus on research, Khalifa University boasts state-of-the-art facilities and fosters strategic partnerships with international universities, industry, and government organizations, providing students with opportunities for exchanges, internships, and joint research.
Why study here
- Access specialized degrees in science, engineering, and medicine, from bachelor's to doctorate levels.
- Benefit from a challenging and rewarding academic experience with mentorship from internationally recognized faculty.
- Engage in cutting-edge research with real-world applications and strong industry and government partnerships.
- Study in a top-ranked university, #1 in the UAE and among the top 200 globally, known for its research intensity.
- Experience a personalized learning environment with a favorable student-to-faculty ratio (10.8:1).
- Live and study in Abu Dhabi, recognized as one of the world's safest cities, offering a blend of culture and modern amenities.
Student life
Khalifa University provides a vibrant student life on its Main Campus in Abu Dhabi. Facilities include a Student Hub for relaxation and study, an academic sports center with separate men's and women's facilities (cardiovascular/weight lifting equipment, fitness studios, courts for basketball, squash, volleyball, badminton), retail and food outlets, and a clinic. The campus features a 200-meter 'Creative Spine' pedestrian walkway designed to foster interaction and collaboration. Students also benefit from two libraries and access to various recreational activities and events.
Fees
InternationalUndergraduate programs cost 2,500 AED per credit hour. Master's programs cost 5,000 AED per credit hour. Doctorate programs cost 6,666 AED per credit hour. Scholarship tiers for international undergraduate students offer tuition waivers of 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100%, plus textbooks. For Master's and PhD, scholarships may cover full/partial tuition, health insurance, accommodation, visa fees, and travel assistance for overseas students.
HomeUAE national students typically receive full or highly subsidized tuition through government scholarship schemes.
LivingLiving costs in Abu Dhabi are moderate. On-campus accommodation is available. Monthly living expenses are approximately AED 3,000-5,000 (EUR 750-1,250) including housing, food, and transport.
Tuition fees are per credit hour. For detailed scholarship benefits and eligibility, applicants should refer to the specific program scholarship information. The University reserves the right to change published scholarship and fees information.
Admissions
UndergraduateRequirements vary by schooling system. International applicants from high schools outside the UAE need an English proficiency exam (IELTS or TOEFL) and may require external advanced standing credits (AL, IB, AP).
Master's DegreeA Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
Direct PhD for Bachelor GraduatesHigh-caliber bachelor graduates with a minimum CGPA of 3.5 (or equivalent) who satisfy admission criteria may be eligible.
IELTSRequired for international applicants (score not specified, see program pages)
TOEFLRequired for international applicants (score not specified, see program pages)
EmSATRequired for applicants from inside UAE (score not specified, see program pages)
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025177
Times Higher Education Young University Rankings 20241
QS Arab Region University Rankings3
University scholarships
Khalifa University Undergraduate Scholarship (International Students)25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% tuition waiver
Khalifa University Postgraduate Scholarship (Master's)Full or partial tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, visa support
Khalifa University Postgraduate Scholarship (PhD)Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, medical insurance, travel support
China Scholarship Council Joint PhD ScholarshipFull tuition, monthly stipend from KU plus CSC stipend, accommodation support
Accreditation
Khalifa University is fully licensed and all programs are accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the UAE Ministry of Education. Many engineering programs are also ABET-accredited.
Programs
a selectionKhalifa University · United Arab Emirates
Accelerated Master of Science Program
Khalifa University offers an Accelerated Master of Science Program that allows current KU undergraduate students to begin earning credits towards their master's degree while still completing their bachelor's. This program is designed for high-achieving students who wish to expedite their graduate studies and gain an early start on advanced academic work. Students admitted to this program can take up to 6 credit hours of master's level courses as part of their undergraduate technical electives. These credits can be 'dual-counted' for both degrees, provided specific academic conditions are met.
Master's
Level
€36k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Khalifa University · United Arab Emirates
BSc in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, and Data Science
The Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics, Statistics, and Data Science program provides a strong foundation in mathematical problem-solving techniques with a practical, application-oriented approach. It is designed for students interested in using mathematical, statistical, and computational methods to address real-world challenges across various fields, including science, engineering, economics, and finance. The program emphasizes mathematical modeling, analysis, and computation, leveraging recent advancements in technology to enhance the importance of quantitative methods.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Khalifa University · United Arab Emirates
BSc in Chemistry
The BSc in Chemistry program provides a comprehensive education in chemistry, equipping students with a holistic set of skills, knowledge, and methodologies to understand the physical world. The curriculum begins with a broad foundation in chemistry and related subjects, allowing students to specialize in areas aligned with the UAE's needs. Four tracks are available: Environmental Chemistry, focusing on sustainability and renewable energies; Materials Chemistry, exploring polymers and nanomaterials; Forensic Chemistry, developing analytical and investigative skills for criminology and law enforcement; and Medicinal Chemistry, for applications in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries. Upon graduation, students are prepared for advanced studies (MSc or PhD) or careers in diverse sectors such as quality control, R&D, environmental protection, education, and consulting. The program aims to develop graduates who possess strong technical and theoretical chemistry skills, transferable skills for leadership roles, and the ability to pursue further academic or professional development.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Khalifa University · United Arab Emirates
BSc in Computer Engineering
The BSc in Computer Engineering program at Khalifa University focuses on the design, development, and integration of computer hardware and software systems. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between hardware and software, crucial for a wide range of career opportunities in government and industry. Students can personalize their studies by selecting from various technical elective courses, allowing them to tailor their education to specific interests within the field. The program aims to equip graduates with the technical knowledge and competencies expected by employers and society, preparing them for immediate employment or further academic pursuits.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Khalifa University · United Arab Emirates
BSc in Earth and Planetary Sciences
The BSc in Earth and Planetary Sciences program at Khalifa University prepares students for diverse careers with direct environmental and societal applications. Graduates can specialize in petroleum geosciences, planetary sciences, or atmospheric and environmental sciences, making them valuable assets to governmental organizations, private consulting firms, non-governmental organizations, and academic institutions. This program is designed to meet the needs of the UAE by enhancing the employability of local talent and equipping graduates with the skills to manage natural resources and contribute to the nation's economic and technical development. The curriculum incorporates knowledge of planetary science through the study of geology, remote sensing, astrobiology, astronomy, and astrophysics, preparing students for the UAE's growing space sector. It also provides a strong foundation in atmospheric and environmental sciences, covering geochemistry, climate science, oceanography, and hydrology. A specialization in petroleum geosciences is achieved through courses in seismology, petrophysics, reservoir characterization, and petroleum systems.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Khalifa University · United Arab Emirates
BSc in Physics
The BSc in Physics program at Khalifa University is designed to equip graduates with a strong foundation in physics and prepare them for diverse career paths, contributing to the UAE's knowledge-based economy. The curriculum emphasizes a lean core with a generous number of electives, allowing students to specialize in areas like Engineering Physics, Space Science, or Physics Education. Students are also encouraged to pursue minors in fields such as Nuclear Engineering or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The program aims to develop critical thinking, scientific and technical skills, effective communication, and professional competencies relevant to industry and research.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United Arab Emirates
full fundingAmerican University of Sharjah (AUS)
President's Scholarship at the American University of Sharjah
Open to first-time, first-year students who completed their secondary education outside the UAE and are enrolling at AUS in the fall semester. Applicants must meet high academic thresholds (such as IELTS 7.0 / TOEFL iBT 94 and top grades in their curriculum) and submit a portfolio demonstrating leadership and community contribution.
full
Funding
€60k
Max
Apr 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingKhalifa University of Science and Technology
Khalifa University Graduate Scholarships
For high-achieving local and international students admitted to a master's or doctoral programme at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi. The scholarship covers full tuition plus a monthly stipend and benefits; admission and funding are assessed together, with intakes in autumn and spring.
full
Funding
€45k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUnited Arab Emirates University (UAEU)
United Arab Emirates University Scholarship
Open to national and international students of all nationalities applying for Master's, PharmD, DBA, or PhD study at United Arab Emirates University in Al Ain for the 2026/2027 academic year. Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or equivalent and demonstrate English language proficiency through a valid IELTS or TOEFL score where required. Required documents include a CV, attested transcripts, a Master's degree transcript for PhD applicants, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. There is no application fee.
full
Funding
€30k
Max
Mar 30, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at Khalifa University?
+
Undergraduate programs cost 2,500 AED per credit hour, Master's programs cost 5,000 AED per credit hour, and Doctorate programs cost 6,666 AED per credit hour. International undergraduate students may receive tuition waivers of 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% through scholarship programs.
Does Khalifa University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Khalifa University offers various scholarships for international students. Undergraduate scholarships can provide tuition waivers, while postgraduate scholarships may cover full/partial tuition, health insurance, accommodation, visa fees, and travel assistance.
What are the living costs like in Abu Dhabi for students?
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Living costs in Abu Dhabi are considered moderate. On-campus accommodation is available, and monthly living expenses, including housing, food, and transport, are estimated to be around 3,000-5,000 AED.
What academic programs are available at Khalifa University?
+
Khalifa University offers a comprehensive range of specialized degrees in science, engineering, and medicine, from bachelor's to doctorate levels.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants are required to have an IELTS or TOEFL score. Specific score requirements are not listed here and should be checked on the program pages.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Khalifa University?
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Khalifa University maintains a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of 10.8:1, contributing to a personalized learning environment.
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