Khalifa University Scholarships

Overview – Khalifa University Scholarships

Khalifa University of Science and Technology offers prestigious, fully-funded scholarships for international students, including those from Pakistan, to pursue Master's and PhD programs. These scholarships are designed to attract top-tier talent to study in the UAE, covering full tuition, providing a generous monthly stipend, and offering comprehensive benefits like housing, medical insurance, and research support. For the 2026 academic year, Pakistani students have a prime opportunity to advance their education in cutting-edge fields such as engineering, computing, and science at a globally ranked institution.

Programs and Fields Eligible for Khalifa University Scholarships

Khalifa University scholarships are available for a wide range of graduate programs. Key eligible fields include:

• Engineering: Petroleum, Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Nuclear Engineering.
• Computing & Information Sciences: Computer Science, Information Security, and Data Science.
• Science: Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Earth Sciences.
• Medicine & Health Sciences: Programs in collaboration with the KU Medical School.

Both thesis and non-thesis Master's options are available, alongside direct-entry and post-Master's PhD tracks.

Khalifa University Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits for Pakistani Students

The Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship provides a comprehensive financial package for successful Pakistani applicants, which includes:

• Full Tuition Coverage: 100% of tuition fees are waived.
• Monthly Stipend: Up to AED 40,000 for PhD and AED 20,000 for Master's students to cover living expenses.
• Free University Accommodation: (or a housing allowance).
• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive coverage as per UAE policy.
• Travel Allowance: Annual round-trip airfare from Abu Dhabi to the home country.
• Research Support: Funding for conference participation and academic projects.

Eligibility Criteria for Khalifa University Scholarships for Pakistani Students

To be eligible for the Khalifa University scholarship, Pakistani applicants must meet stringent academic and language requirements. For Master's programs, a four-year Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent is required. PhD applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.25/4.0. All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through a TOEFL iBT score of 91 or an IELTS Academic score of 6.5. Additionally, a statement of purpose, research proposal (for PhD applicants), and strong letters of recommendation are critical components of a competitive application. The selection committee also values research experience, publications, and relevant professional achievements.

How Pakistani Students Can Apply for Khalifa University Scholarships

The application process for the 2026 intake is conducted entirely online through the Khalifa University admissions portal. Pakistani students must first select their desired graduate program and indicate their interest in being considered for a scholarship within the application form. Required documents include attested academic transcripts and certificates, a valid passport copy, a CV, a personal statement, two recommendation letters, and English proficiency test scores. It is crucial to adhere to the published deadlines, typically in April for Fall admission. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview. Early preparation and a meticulously completed application significantly enhance the chances of success.

Frequently Asked Questions About Khalifa University Scholarships

Q: Is the Khalifa University scholarship truly fully funded for Pakistani students?
A: Yes, the comprehensive scholarship covers all tuition fees, provides a monthly living stipend, accommodation, medical insurance, and travel costs.

Q: What is the application deadline for the 2026 intake?
A: The primary application deadline for Fall 2026 admission is expected to be in April 2026. Applicants should verify the exact date on the official Khalifa University website.

Q: Can I apply for the scholarship before receiving an admission offer?
A: No, you must apply for admission and indicate your scholarship interest simultaneously through the online application portal. The scholarship review is part of the admissions process.

Q: Are there any bond or service requirements after graduation?
A: No, there is no mandatory service bond attached to the Khalifa University Graduate Scholarship for international students.

Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is one of the leading research universities in the Middle East, providing world-class education and cutting-edge research opportunities. Pakistani students looking to pursue higher education abroad can benefit greatly from the Khalifa University scholarships, which are fully funded and designed for academically talented students. These scholarships aim to support students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and innovation while relieving financial burdens.

Khalifa University scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including Master's and PhD degrees. Most of these scholarships are merit-based, and eligibility is usually determined during the admissions process, meaning that students do not need to submit a separate scholarship application. The university’s goal is to provide complete financial assistance so that students can focus entirely on their studies and research projects.

Programs and Fields Eligible for Khalifa University Scholarships

Khalifa University offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, many of which are eligible for scholarships. Key areas include:

• Engineering Programs: Mechanical, Electrical & Computer, Civil, Chemical, Aerospace, Nuclear, Petroleum, Biomedical Engineering, and more.
• Computer Science and IT: Computer Science, Computational Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and related fields.
• Pure and Applied Sciences: Physics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Applied Mathematics, and other scientific disciplines.
• Medical and Health Sciences: Doctor of Medicine (MD), Pre-Medicine Bridge Programs, Biomedical and Health Sciences.
• Business, Public Policy, and International Relations: Scholarships may be available depending on the program.

Students should check the official Khalifa University website for the exact availability of scholarships in each field.

Khalifa University Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits for Pakistani Students

Khalifa University scholarships offer a wide range of benefits that make them highly competitive and attractive for Pakistani students. Some of the key advantages include:

• Full Tuition Fee Coverage: The scholarship covers the entire tuition fee, significantly reducing the cost of studying abroad.
• Monthly Stipend for Living Expenses: Scholarship recipients receive a monthly stipend to support their living costs. Master’s students typically receive AED 8,000, while PhD students may get between AED 12,000 and AED 20,000 depending on the scholarship tier and progress.
• Free On-Campus Accommodation: Full-time scholarship students often get free university housing. If university accommodation is unavailable, the university provides alternative housing allowances.
• Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Full-time international students sponsored by Khalifa University receive medical insurance coverage, ensuring access to quality healthcare.
• Textbook Coverage: The University usually covers the cost of required textbooks for scholarship students.
• Travel Allowances: International students may receive travel allowances for mobilization and demobilization flights between their home country and Abu Dhabi, subject to approval.
• UAE Visa Application Fee Assistance: Some scholarships include financial support for visa application fees.
• Funding for International Research Conferences: Postgraduate students may receive support for attending approved research conferences abroad.
• Access to World-Class Laboratories and Research Facilities: Students benefit from modern laboratories, research equipment, and library resources to support their academic and research activities.
• Career Services and Job Placement Support: Khalifa University provides guidance and resources to help students advance their careers and secure employment after graduation.

Eligibility Criteria for Khalifa University Scholarships for Pakistani Students

The eligibility requirements may vary depending on the program and scholarship tier. However, Pakistani applicants are generally expected to meet the following criteria:

General Requirements for Scholarship Eligibility

• Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance is the primary factor in scholarship selection.
• English Language Proficiency: All applicants must demonstrate fluency in English. Accepted tests include:
  • IELTS Academic: minimum score of 6.5
  • TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 91
  • EmSAT English: minimum score of 1550
  • Exemption: Students who have completed a degree in English-medium universities may be exempt.
• Admission Interview: Shortlisted candidates are required to attend an interview as part of the admissions process.

Requirements for Master’s Degree Programs

• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized university.
• A minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).

Requirements for PhD Degree Programs

• A Master’s degree in a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum CGPA of 3.25 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).
• Submission of a research statement (500–1,000 words) outlining research interests and future plans.

Step-by-Step Guide: How Pakistani Students Can Apply for Khalifa University Scholarships

Applying for Khalifa University scholarships is part of the general admissions process. Pakistani students should follow these steps:

• Research Programs: Visit official website and explore programs that match your academic and career goals. Check program-specific requirements.
• Create an Account: Register on the Khalifa University Admissions Portal.
• Complete the Online Application: Fill in personal, academic, and contact information accurately. Choose your preferred program under the “Program” section.
• Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, including certified degrees, transcripts, UAE Ministry of Education equivalency (if applicable), English test scores, GRE (if required), CV, passport photo, copy of passport, Statement of Purpose (500–1,000 words), and Research Statement for PhD applicants. Ensure files are PDF (max 4MB) or JPEG (max 2MB).
• Submit Recommendation Letters: Enter referees’ contact details in the portal. They will receive an email to submit letters directly.
• Upload and Submit: Upload all documents and submit your application.
• Assessment and Interview: Applications are reviewed, and shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews.
• Receive Offer: Successful applicants receive an offer letter that includes admission and scholarship details.

Frequently Asked Questions About Khalifa University Scholarships

1. Do I need a separate application for the scholarship? 
   No. Scholarships are automatically considered during the admissions process.
2. Is IELTS required for Pakistani students? 
   Yes, an English test is generally required unless your previous degree was completed in English.
3. What are my chances of getting a full scholarship? 
   Scholarships are highly competitive. Academic performance, research potential, and a strong application increase your chances.
4. Can I apply if my CGPA is slightly below the requirement? 
   Strong recommendation letters and research potential may sometimes compensate for a slightly lower CGPA.
5. Are there age limits? 
   There are no strict age limits for postgraduate scholarships.
6. Which documents need UAE Ministry of Education equivalency? 
   Degrees obtained outside the UAE require equivalency certificates.
7. What are the application deadlines? 
   Deadlines vary by semester. For example, Fall 2025 deadline was April 14, 2025, and Spring 2026 is around October 31, 2025.
8. Is GRE mandatory? 
   It may be optional for some programs but recommended for engineering and science fields.
9. What happens after submission? 
   Shortlisted candidates are invited for interviews, and successful applicants receive an admission and scholarship offer.
10. Do I need to maintain a minimum CGPA to retain my scholarship? 
    Yes. Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum CGPA (usually 3.0–3.3 out of 4.0).

Conclusion: Khalifa University scholarships are an outstanding opportunity for Pakistani students seeking quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and full financial support in Abu Dhabi, UAE. With comprehensive benefits and world-class programs in engineering, science, medicine, IT, and more, students can build a bright academic and professional future without financial stress.