STUDY IN DUBAI
Why study in Dubai?
● A rapidly growing education hub in the Middle East, hosting branch campuses of
top UK, US, and Australian universities.
● Strong focus on Business, Engineering, IT, Tourism, and Finance.
● English is widely used in education and daily life.
● Safe, multicultural city with a global student community.
● Strategic location with easy access to Asia, Europe, and Africa.
● Offers internship and job opportunities in a booming economy.
Top Universities & Global Rankings
| Institution | Global Affiliation | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| University of Birmingham Dubai | UK parent ranked Top 100 | Business, Engineering, Computer Science |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | UK | Engineering, Business, Finance |
| Middlesex University Dubai | UK | Business, Law, IT, Media |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | Independent (USA accreditation) | Business, Architecture, Arts |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai | India | Engineering, Business, IT |
| Curtin University Dubai | Australia (Top 200 parent) | Business, IT, Health Sciences |
Dubai’s Knowledge Park and Academic City host over 30 international institutions.
Intakes & Application Deadlines
● September (Fall) – Main intake, most programs open.
● January (Spring) – Secondary intake, wide availability.
● May/July – Limited programs, mainly short courses.
Deadlines vary by university, typically 3–6 months before intake.
Tuition Fees & Living Costs
● Undergraduate Tuition: AED 40,000 – 70,000 per year (USD $11,000 – $19,000)
● Postgraduate Tuition: AED 50,000 – 90,000 per year (USD $14,000 – $25,000)
● MBA Programs: AED 80,000 – 120,000 (USD $22,000 – $33,000)
● Living Costs: AED 30,000 – 50,000 per year (USD $8,000 – $14,000), depending
on lifestyle and accommodation.
Language Proficiency Requirements – IELTS / TOEFL
● Undergraduate: IELTS 5.5 – 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 61–78
● Postgraduate: IELTS 6.0 – 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 79–90
● Some universities accept English Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificates.
Standardized Tests
● Undergraduate: SAT/ACT may be required for American curriculum universities
(e.g., AUD).
● Postgraduate: GRE/GMAT may be required for MBA/Business programs.
● Most international branch campuses do not require SAT/GMAT.
Application Process & Timeline
1. 6–12 months before intake: Research universities via Knowledge Park/Academic
City directories.
2. Prepare Documents: Passport, academic transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL/MOI, SOP,
LORs, CV.
3. Submit Application: Apply online or through admission offices.
4. Receive Offer Letter: Typically within 2–6 weeks.
5. Pay Initial Fee: Secure admission by paying partial tuition.
6. Apply for Student Visa: University usually sponsors the visa (issued by UAE
immigration).
Dubai Student Visa – Requirements & Documents
● Visa Type: UAE Student Residence Visa
● Visa Fee: Approx. AED 3,000 – 6,000 (USD $820 – $1,640), depending on
university sponsorship.
● Required Documents:
○ University admission letter
○ Passport copy
○ Recent passport photos
○ Proof of financial support / fee payment
○ Medical test (on arrival in Dubai)
Student visas are usually valid for 1 year and renewed annually.
Work While Studying & Post-Graduation
● During Studies: Part-time work allowed in designated free zones (Knowledge
Park, Academic City) with university approval.
● Internships: Many programs include industry internships with multinational
companies.
● After Graduation:
○ Apply for a Job Seeker Visa (6–12 months) to find employment.
○ Transition to a work residence visa once employed.
Dubai provides excellent career opportunities in Finance, IT, Construction, Hospitality,
and Logistics, making it attractive for long-term prospects.
List of Universities & Colleges
● Amity University – Dubai Campus
● GBS (Global Banking School)
● Heriot-Watt University
● Schiller International University(Dubai Campus)
● University of Wollongong, Dubai