University of Dubai Merit Scholarships
Offered by University of Dubai
Max per student
Not specified
Closing date
Scholarship application is tied to the main admission deadline
Scholarships awarded
Not Available
Education level
Under Graduate
Related fields of study
Engineering and Technology, Law
Scholarship type
General
Mode of Study
Full Time
Nationality
Open to all
Scholarship
Overview
The University of Dubai offers a tiered discount (merit scholarship) on tuition fees for undergraduate students based on their high school academic performance. The highest discount (50%) is for those scoring ≥ 90%, with lower tiers (30%, 20%) for lower percentages. To keep the discount, students must maintain certain CGPA thresholds during their studies. There are also other discount schemes for specific categories (Esaad card holders, public sector professionals, partner schools, etc.). University of Dubai indicates that scholarship funds for international students are limited, so competition is high.
Scholarship amount details
Max scholarship per student: 50% of tuition
Scholarship amount given as: Discount/waiver applied to tuition fees
Expenses covered: Tuition only
Non-covered items: Registration fees, books, accommodation, and living expenses are typically not included in this scheme (not explicitly mentioned, but a discount is on “tuition fees”)
Scholarship
application details
The scholarship is primarily granted automatically to new undergraduate students upon admission, based on their High School Certificate results. No separate scholarship application form is usually required for the initial award, but students must formally apply for admission to the University of Dubai. To retain the scholarship, students must maintain a high CGPA and register for a minimum number of credit hours per semester.
Eligibility / Criteria
- High school / secondary education with percentage score:
- ≥ 90% - eligible for 50% discount
- ≥ 85% - eligible for 30% discount
- < 85% - eligible for 20% discount
- Must apply for admission to UD
- For non-UAE high school credentials, equivalent grading/conversion will be considered
- International students are eligible, though funds are limited
Retention / Continuation Conditions
- For those receiving a 50% discount: Must maintain a CGPA ≥ 3.5
- If CGPA drops to 3.3–3.59, the discount is reduced to 30%
- If the CGPA falls below 3.3, it will be further reduced to 20%
- For ≥ 85% - 30% discount: Must maintain CGPA ≥ 3.3; if below, reduced to 20%
- For < 85% - 20% discount: Must maintain CGPA ≥ 2.00
Document Requirements (likely)
- High school transcript/certificate with percentage
- Admission/application form of UD
- Any equivalency/validation of a foreign curriculum
- English proficiency / standardised test (if required by UD)
- Identity/passport documentation
Additional
Info
- UD also offers other discount schemes besides the merit ones (for specific categories)
- UD’s “Scholarships & Discounts” page is currently active, indicating this policy is relatively up to date.
- UD’s admissions page states students can apply for a “variety of scholarships and discounts” to lower tuition fees.
- There is a scholarship fund run via UD’s Alumni & Friends and Beit Al Khair Society for needy students.
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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.
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