Considering to study in the UAE? Prepare yourself not only to work with books and to take tests. The life of an international student in the UAE is nothing short of a wild goose chase, as the country has something to offer at every corner after futuristic skyscrapers, golden beaches, bustling souks, and real-deal career opportunities.
The UAE is definitely a country to make it on your list, in case your priorities are world-class education, multicultural experience, and professionally viable careers across the globe. As a matter of fact, it is quickly emerging as a popular study destination among those who wish to have the taste of international education but not in the UK, US or Australia.
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What is special about studying in the UAE?
The UAE already hosts more than 230,000 international students, quickly emerging as a leading global destination of higher education. Why? This is simply because the school integrates a high standard of education with a multi-cultural lifestyle and that you can never be too far away when you are coming all the way, whether in Asia, Europe or Africa.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- State of the art facilities and global curriculums
- Business, engineering, tech programs, and so on
- Degrees taught in English and international accreditation
- Buzzing cultural scene and sunny weather all year long
- An entry point to international employment in business centers, such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Indian Students Are Leading the Pack
You might be an Indian, in which case you most probably at least have a cousin, classmate or senior studying in the UAE already. The Emirates is home to the largest community of international students representing the Indian community. The hottest hub is Dubai, though, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman can no longer be said to be coming last. Reputable institutions, such as the BITS Pilani Dubai, Amity University Dubai, and Manipal Academy of Higher Education, are well-known to provide international degrees at a decent location, without the long-distance travel and the high fees.
How to Apply to a UAE University
Admission to a university in the UAE is not rocket science, but there are certain steps that you will have to take. Here is your breakdown:
Admission Requirements:
- Legit passport
- High school or previous degree transcripts
- IELTS/TOEFL scores (if needed)
- Letter of recommendation (in case of some postgraduate courses)
- Purpose of statement (dependent on program)
International students are accepted by both the public and the private universities. The paid seats in public universities are limited whereas the options and intakes of the private universities are wider.
Student Visa Essentials
After accepting you, the next thing is your student visa.
After the acceptance, it is time to apply to a student visa. In most cases your university may sponsor and also process your visa or a family member in UAE can sponsor you. This is what you need:
- Offer letter or acceptance letter from the university
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate by an approved clinic in the UAE
- Documentation evidence of sponsorship (university or relative)
- Emirates ID application form
Cost: AED 5,500 to 6,500 depending on which university and emirate you are in.
Duration: 1 year (renewable as long as you remain enrolled)
Scholarships & the Golden Visa Advantage
The UAE wants to reward those students who are good performers.
Scholarships
The majority of Universities provide:
- Academic scholarships (on performance merit)
- Financial aid on a need basis
- Discounts on early bird applications
UAE Golden Visa for Top Students
The UAE has established a 10 years Golden Visa to:
- Best high school students (95 percent and above)
- University students attending internationally ranked institutions
- Exceptional talents in science, tech, and arts
Benefits?
- Stability in the long-term
- Complete family sponsorship
- After-graduation work rights
- Long term residency and career building pathway
Budgeting & Lifestyle
Tuition fees: It depends on the program and university. You can expect anything between AED 35,000 and AED 90,000 a year.
Living costs: The average monthly expenditure (such as rent, food and transport) is approx. AED 3000 to 5000.
Pro tip: Spend wisely and start applying to scholarships. Also, inquire whether your university can provide on-campus housing, which can be cheaper.
Final Checklist Before You Apply
- Select any certified university
- Get the admission schedule knowledge
- Be prepared with your documents
- Apply strategically to the student visa
- Find out about scholarships and Golden Visa
- Determine your fee, living and emergency budgets
Ready to Study in the UAE?
You might be interested in establishing an innovative technology startup or getting a degree as a big business leader or simply enjoy your student years with the sun in the UAE, there is nothing better than space and support to have the biggest dreams and shoot as high as you can!
As a student destination, the UAE is a sure way to make it big in the world since it has the best universities, multi-cultural environment and it has the industries booming. Yalla! It is time to jump. Cmon, hurry up! Here your global education journey begins.