STUDY IN DUBAI
So many incredible cities, so little time… With several destinations around the world, the hardest part of studying abroad is deciding where to go! That’s who we are..we are here to help you DECIDE…
Study in UAE
The country where modernity meets tradition, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular tourist destination and is home to some of the best universities in the Gulf region. The UAE is the perfect destination for any international student looking for a truly unique study experience.
Why Study in the UAE?
Since the discovery of oil in the region in the 1950’s, the UAE’s economy has been rapidly changing. Now the country is known for not only oil and gas exportation, but is also improving its recognition in the tourist and construction industries. Located in the cities of the UAE you will find some of the world’s most impressive architectural feats, including the Burj Khalifa.
The higher education system is governed by the Ministry of Higher Education, which is responsible for the admission of students, as well as accrediting degree programmes. You will find 3 of the UAE’s universities in the 2022 QS World University Rankings top 500. The highest ranked is the Khalifa University, which is placed at 183rd.
Study in UAE
The UAE uses the UAE Dirham (AED) as its currency. Institutions in the UAE are permitted to set their own tuition fees, so costs will vary depending on where you choose to study. Tuition fees will also vary depending on the level and type of degree you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around AED 48,000 for a masters degree, and up to AED 120,000 for some specialised graduate degrees. Courses are charged in semester credit hours as opposed to months or years. You may be eligible for a scholarship to help towards your tuition fees, check with your institution to find out more.
Students looking to study in the UAE need to consider their living costs. For a private rented apartment you can expect to pay around AED 3,700 per month, with utilities costing around AED 440 per month. If you choose to live in a bigger city, you should expect higher living costs than smaller cities and towns. If you live outside of the cities, you might need to think about getting a car, as transport is not the most efficient.
All international students will need to have valid health insurance for their stay in the UAE. It is common for institutions to offer health insurance cover once you have arrived in the country and have undertaken a medical examination. The medical examination is thorough and tests for HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis and syphilis, among other things.
Visas
All students who are looking to study in the UAE will need to apply for a student visa. To obtain a visa you will usually need to be sponsored by a resident of the country. Most institutions offer this service, but you should be sure to check before you start your application process. The application is done online, but you should be aware that sponsorship does not guarantee your visa. Application costs can be up to AED 3,000 and the deposit up to AED 3,000.
You will need to provide certain documents when applying for your visa. These are:
- Valid passport with at least six months left and two blank visa pages
- Four passport copies
- 12 passport photographs
- Three passport copies and an entry visa to the UAE on arrival
- Bank statements providing evidence of sufficient funds
- Tenancy agreement or proof of living arrangements
- Copy of tuition fee receipt for the current year of study
- Copy of visa fees receipt for the current year of study
- Postgraduate students will need proof of their undergraduate degree
Student residence visas will only last for one year, and will therefore need renewing if your course is longer than this. When you apply to renew your student visa, you will need to pay more visa fees.
