Scholarship
Overview
The Hamdan bin Mohammed Academic Scholarship Programme is an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to support outstanding Emirati high school graduates (from public or private schools) to pursue undergraduate studies at top international universities.
Each year, 100 Emirati students are selected to receive full funding, which includes tuition, living expenses, and travel, enabling them to attend prestigious global institutions.
The program is aligned with Dubai’s Social Agenda and Education strategy, aiming to cultivate talent in specialisations critical to the emirate’s future growth.
Scholarship amount details
Max scholarship per student: Full funding, including tuition, living allowance, travel costs, etc.
Scholarship amount will be given: For the full duration of the bachelor’s degree program, subject to maintaining the required performance and conditions
Types of Expenses covered (Yes/No)
| Expenses | Covered |
| Tuition & Fees | Yes |
| Living Expenses/stipend | Yes |
| Accommodation | Yes |
| Health cover | Yes |
| Airfare/Travel | Yes |
| Visa/Immigration Fees | Yes |
| Others (e.g. Application, student services, etc.) | Yes |
Scholarship
application details
Applications must be submitted through the “Emirati” section of the Dubai Now application during the announced application period. Applicants must meet high academic standards, including specific GPA/score requirements based on their curriculum (e.g., minimum 90% for MOE General Stream). The applicant must not hold any other scholarship.
Document Requirements & Eligibility
- Must be an Emirati citizen with a Dubai family book
- Completed high school in 2022-23, 2023-24, or 2024-25 academic years.
- Must not already have received another scholarship offer.
- Academic excellence: top-performing students (strict academic criteria)
- Application is submitted through the “Emirati” section of the Dubai Now app
- Other supporting documents as required (transcripts, proof of identity, etc.)
Additional
Info
- The scholarship’s budget is AED 1.1 billion for the annual program.
- Selection is competitive; meeting eligibility does not guarantee an award.
- Scholars must maintain performance/follow rules to continue receiving benefits.
- The programme is governed by a Steering Committee that sets policies, disciplines, and oversees implementation.
- The programme is open to applications only during the designated window (e.g. May 8 to June 30, 2025)
- Scholars will pursue undergraduate degrees at top global universities in fields aligned with Dubai’s strategic needs.
Top & New Articles
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
Study in Dubai: Is It Better than USA or UK?
By Pritam Rathi
March 28, 2025
FAQs
Indian students can apply for UAE universities or government scholarships by researching available opportunities through official university websites and platforms like StudyfromUAE. Students typically need strong academics, English proficiency, and supporting documents. Some scholarships are need-based or merit-based, and others are tied to specific programs or fields of study.
The UAE offers several government-funded scholarships for international students, including Indians. Examples include Khalifa University Scholarships, Masdar Institute Scholarships, and the Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Scholarships. These are highly competitive and generally require excellent academic performance, recommendation letters, and English language proficiency scores like IELTS or TOEFL.
International students can apply for merit-based, need-based, or program-specific scholarships offered by UAE universities like Khalifa University, UAEU, and the University of Sharjah. Government grants and corporate sponsorships are also available. Platforms like StudyfromUAE list updated scholarships with eligibility, deadlines, and application guides.
Most universities in the UAE offer partial scholarships covering 20% to 80% of tuition fees for undergraduate and master’s programs. These are awarded based on merit, financial need, or leadership potential. Partial funding is more common than full scholarships, and students can increase their chances by applying early with strong credentials.
Eligibility varies, but typically includes academic excellence (e.g., 85%+), English language proficiency, and extracurricular achievements. Some scholarships also consider financial need or specific program requirements. Each scholarship has its own criteria, so students must review the eligibility on the official university website or the Study from UAE platform.
International students, including those from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Africa, can apply. Eligibility usually depends on academic performance, program type (UG/PG), and English proficiency. Both high school graduates and working professionals pursuing higher education may be eligible.
Yes, Indian students are eligible for merit-based scholarships in UAE universities. These are awarded to students with high academic scores, strong entrance test results, and leadership or extracurricular achievements. Each university defines its own merit criteria, so checking individual policies is important.
Deadlines vary by university and scholarship type, but most fall between March and August for the September intake. Government-funded scholarships may have earlier deadlines. Always check the official university websites or the Study from UAE platform for the most up-to-date timelines.
It’s best to apply 6–12 months before your intended program starts. Some scholarships are offered during admission, while others require a separate application. Early applications often receive priority, especially for merit-based and limited-seat funding options.
Start by identifying the universities and scholarships that match your profile. Prepare necessary documents (transcripts, SOP, reference letters, test scores), and apply through the university’s admissions portal. Some require a separate scholarship application, while others consider all admitted students automatically.
Common documents include academic transcripts, a passport copy, a personal statement/SOP, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and a resume. Some scholarships may also request financial documents, a research proposal (for PG), or test scores like SAT/GRE.
Not all, but most reputed UAE universities offer scholarships for international students. Institutions like Khalifa University, UAE University, and the University of Sharjah have various merit and need-based funding programs. Always check specific university websites or use StudyfromUAE to compare.
Partial merit-based scholarships are generally easier to obtain than fully funded options. Universities often award these based on academic scores (80%+), with less competition. Community-focused scholarships and institutional grants are also more accessible compared to competitive government scholarships.
Focus on academic excellence, standardised test scores, and a compelling SOP. Research universities in Dubai that offer scholarships and apply directly through their portals. Some scholarships are automatic upon admission, while others require a separate application. Use StudyfromUAE to discover active opportunities.
Yes, international students can get scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or specific study fields. Many UAE universities offer such funding, along with UAE government initiatives. Applying early and submitting a strong application increases your chances.
To apply for a 100% scholarship, target programs that offer full tuition waivers or stipends based on merit or need. Submit a stellar application with high grades, strong test scores, and compelling SOPs. Some UAE universities and government programs do offer fully funded options.
While it varies, most universities require at least 80–90% in your previous academic records for merit-based scholarships. Higher-ranked programs or full scholarships may expect even more. English test scores and extracurricular achievements can also influence eligibility.
No, studying on a visit visa is not allowed. You must obtain a student visa, which is sponsored by the university after you’re admitted and have completed all documentation. A student visa also allows limited work rights and renewals.