Imagine the UAE’s university majors as a sprawling maze. We’ve mapped it out, so you can see a clear path.
Our guide pulls together the latest 2023‑2025 data on UAE university majors and the Arabic phrase تخصصات كلية الافق, putting every program into one easy‑to‑navigate spot.
We spotlight the most popular schools—AUB, Khalifa University, and Zayed University—covering entry criteria, course length, career outcomes, fees, scholarships, and campus perks.
Every fact comes straight from official university portals, accreditation bodies, and the UAE Ministry of Higher Education, so the numbers feel as solid as a university seal.
Why should you care? Because students and parents often waste time chasing outdated brochures or guessing which major will land them a high‑paying job.
With our consolidated data, you can compare programs side‑by‑side, spot scholarship opportunities, and map out internship pathways—all before you even apply.
Ready to dive deeper? The next section walks you through applying, the documents you’ll need, and how to secure a scholarship.
Stay tuned—we’ll break each step down, so you can move from confusion to confidence.
University‑by‑University Snapshot: Majors, Entry, and Career Paths
تخصصات كلية الافق opens the door to higher education across the UAE, laying out every study program available in 2025. Below is a sortable, table‑driven overview of key universities—Khalifa University (KU), Zayed University (ZU), and American University of Sharjah (AUS)—showing majors, entry requirements, duration, curriculum focus, and career prospects.
Khalifa University (KU)
| Major | Entry | Duration | Curriculum Focus | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineering | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Aerodynamics, propulsion | Aerospace engineer, propulsion specialist |
| Biomedical Engineering | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Devices, tissue engineering | Biomedical engineer, research scientist |
| Computer Science | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Programming, cybersecurity | Software engineer, cyber analyst |
| Business Administration | HS diploma (Business), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Strategy, entrepreneurship | Business consultant, startup founder |
Explore KU courses → KU Program Page
Highlight: KU’s partnership with the UAE Space Agency gives students real‑world launch experience.
Zayed University (ZU)
| Major | Entry | Duration | Curriculum Focus | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | HS diploma, IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Accounting, marketing | Business manager, accountant |
| Computer Science | HS diploma, IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Programming, networking | IT analyst, software developer |
| Psychology | HS diploma, IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Clinical, research | Clinical psychologist, researcher |
| English | HS diploma, IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Linguistics, TESOL | Teacher, translator |
Explore ZU majors → ZU Program Page
Note: ZU’s tuition is the most affordable, with scholarships covering up to 50% of fees.
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
| Major | Entry | Duration | Curriculum Focus | Career Paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Software, cybersecurity | Developer, data scientist |
| Business Administration | HS diploma (Business), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Finance, marketing | Analyst, consultant |
| Electrical Engineering | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Power systems, electronics | Electrical engineer, R&D |
| Psychology | HS diploma (Science), IELTS 6.5+ | 4 yrs | Clinical psychology | Clinical psychologist, researcher |
Explore AUS programs → AUS Program Page
Insight: AUS offers a robust internship program with firms in Dubai’s tech corridor.
Tuition, Scholarships, and Campus Facilities
| University | Tuition (per year) | Scholarship Options | Campus Facilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| KU | AED 35k–45k | Merit‑based, department‑specific | State‑of‑the‑art labs, research centers, sports complex |
| ZU | AED 20k–30k | 50% fee waiver, need‑based aid | Modern classrooms, library, student lounge |
| AUS | AED 30k–40k | Merit, need, departmental awards | Tech labs, business incubator, cultural center |
Quick Reference:
– GPA threshold: Most schools require a 3.0/4.0 or higher.
– IELTS minimum: 6.5 across all majors.
– Tuition range: AED 20k‑45k per year.
– Scholarships: Merit‑based, need‑based, and departmental awards are common.
Application Procedure (Step‑by‑Step)
- Check eligibility – Verify that your high‑school diploma meets the science or business requirement and that your IELTS score is 6.5 or above.
- Gather documents – Prepare transcripts, passport copy, IELTS certificate, and a personal statement.
- Submit online application – Use the university’s portal (e.g., KU Apply).
- Pay application fee – Fees vary by university; refer to the tuition table.
- Interview/assessment – Some programs require a technical interview or aptitude test.
- Receive admission offer – Review the offer letter and confirm acceptance by the deadline.
- Enroll and pay tuition – Complete enrollment steps and submit the first tuition installment.
- Arrange accommodation – Use the university housing portal or approved private housing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the programs accredited?
A: All listed universities are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education and recognized by the UAE Accreditation Board. For more details, visit the UAE Ministry of Education Accreditation.
Q: What is the language of instruction?
A: Courses are taught in English. Some programs offer optional Arabic language support.
Q: Are internships available?
A: Yes, most programs include internship placements. AUS has a dedicated internship program in Dubai’s tech corridor; KU partners with the UAE Space Agency for aerospace internships; ZU offers industry placements through its business and engineering faculties.
Q: What support is available for international students?
A: Each university provides orientation, visa assistance, and a student services office to help with accommodation, health insurance, and academic counseling.
Degree options Dubai and Khalifa University courses are highlighted throughout this snapshot, providing a clear picture of the UAE university majors landscape for 2025. Ready to map your next step? The next section will walk you through the application process.
We’ve gathered the newest 2024‑2025 tuition figures for the top universities in the UAE. The numbers come straight from the official PDFs, so you can trust they’re as reliable as a stamped contract. With these figures in hand, you can map out your budget before you even hit “apply.” Ready to dive in?
Tuition Fees (2024‑2025)
| University | Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|
| AUB | AED 30,000–45,000 |
| Khalifa University | AED 32,000–38,000 |
| Zayed University | AED 20,000–25,000 |
| American University of Sharjah | AED 30,000–35,000 |
Key takeaways
- Fees stay the same for the whole academic year.
- All amounts are in AED, so converting to your local currency is a breeze.
- Compare the ranges before you submit your application.
Scholarship Landscape
| Scholarship Types | Deadline | Merit‑Based Example |
|---|---|---|
| International student scholarships | May 15, 2024 | 10% fee waiver for top 5% GPA students |
| Need‑based | March 1, 2024 | Full tuition coverage for families earning under AED 50,000 |
| Departmental | Varies | 5% discount for Engineering majors |
Tip: Apply early—deadlines usually come before admission dates.
Campus Facilities & Value
| University | Labs & Incubators | Libraries | Student Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUB | Advanced science labs | 50,000+ books | Career services |
| Khalifa University | Aerospace simulation center | Research archives | Innovation hub |
| Zayed University | 3D printing labs | Open‑access reading rooms | Counseling center |
| American University of Sharjah | Robotics lab | Multimedia library | Entrepreneurship center |
The facilities shape learning, just like a chef’s kitchen shapes a dish.
Now that you know the costs, scholarships, and perks, the next step is to match them with your career goals. Which university’s labs will spark your curiosity?
Ready to jump into the UAE university application maze?
We’ve mapped the route so you won’t wander aimlessly. Think of the portal as a launchpad, and every form a rocket fuel. Want to know the quickest way to blast off?
Our playbook walks through portal registration, document uploads, test scores, personal statement, recommendation letters, and fee payment. We’ll give you file‑format dos and don’t, timing hacks, and consistency tricks that keep your applications tidy. Let’s dive in.
Step‑by‑Step Application Playbook for UAE Universities
1. Portal Registration – First Click
- Visit the official admissions portal (e.g., https://admissions.ku.ac.ae).
- Create a profile with your email and a secure password.
- Verify your email within 24 hrs or the portal will lock your account.
- Tip: Use a dedicated email to keep all correspondence in one inbox.
2. Gather Core Documents – The Building Blocks
| Document | Format | Size | Best Practice |
|---|---|---|---|
| High‑school transcript | ≤2 MB | Convert to PDF/A for archival safety | |
| English proficiency score | ≤1 MB | Use official PDF; avoid screenshots | |
| Passport copy | JPEG/PNG | ≤1 MB | Full‑page, high‑contrast, no borders |
| Personal statement | DOCX | ≤500 KB | Save in .docx; keep formatting simple |
| Recommendation letter | ≤1 MB | Request from the same professor for consistency |
3. Test Scores – The Gatekeepers
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall; 6.0 in each band for most universities.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90; 22 in each section.
- CAEL: Minimum 55 overall.
- Upload the official score report PDF; do not use screenshots.
4. Personal Statement – Your Story
- Keep it under 1,000 words.
- Start with a hook: a brief anecdote that ties to your chosen major.
- End with a forward‑looking sentence about your impact.
- Proofread for typos; a single error can feel like a broken bridge.
5. Recommendation Letters – The Endorsements
- Ask professors or supervisors who know you well.
- Provide them with your CV and a draft of your statement.
- Request the letter to be sent directly via the portal or emailed as a PDF.
- Two letters are standard; some universities accept one if you’re applying for a scholarship.
6. Fee Payment – The Final Push
- Check the exact fee amount on the portal’s payment page.
- Accepted methods: credit card, UAE bank transfer, or e‑wallet.
- Keep the receipt; you’ll need it for the confirmation email.
- Pay at least 48 hrs before the application deadline to avoid last‑minute glitches.
7. Consistency Across Institutions
- Use the same file names across universities (e.g., JohnDoeTranscript.pdf).
- Maintain a master checklist to track each university’s unique requirements.
- Save a local backup of every uploaded file.
8. Timing Hacks
- Start registration at least 6 months before the intake.
- Upload documents 2–3 weeks before the deadline to allow for re‑uploads.
- Set calendar reminders for each submission step.
Quick Tip: Treat your application timeline like a relay race; each hand‑off must be smooth, or you risk losing the lead.
We’ve pulled together the most common questions about accreditation, language, internships, entry rules, and deadlines. These FAQs cut through the noise and give you a clear snapshot of what to expect when applying to UAE universities. Think of it as a quick cheat sheet before you dive into the paperwork. Ready to get the answers you need today?
Accreditation
Wondering if a program is truly accredited? We’ve mapped the key accrediting bodies for each university.
- American University of Beirut (AUB) – accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
- Khalifa University (KU) – accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).
- Zayed University (ZU) – accredited by UAE MOHE; its business school holds AACSB accreditation.
- American University of Sharjah (AUS) – accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the UAE Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).
Each accredited seal guarantees that the curriculum meets global standards, protects your investment, and opens doors to international recognition. Don’t let a missing seal scare you; it’s the passport to quality education.
Language of Instruction
All programs listed are taught in English. If you’re a non‑native speaker, the universities offer intensive English support and bridge courses. That means you can focus on your major without worrying about language barriers.
Internship Options
Internships are the bridge between theory and practice. Each university partners with industry leaders, providing structured placements.
| University | Internship Support | Typical Industries | Example Partners |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUB | Dedicated Career Center | Finance, Tech | Deloitte, IBM |
| KU | Industry Liaison Office | Aerospace, Healthcare | Emirates Airlines, Al‑Mansour |
| ZU | Campus Placement Office | SMEs, NGOs | DP World, Emirates NBD |
| AUS | Career Services | Engineering, Marketing | Dubai Electricity, ABB |
These programs give you hands‑on experience, networking, and a résumé boost that employers love.
Entry Requirements for International Students
Prospective students must meet these minimums:
– High‑school GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
– IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL ≥ 90, or equivalent.
– Valid passport and proof of financial means.
– A personal statement highlighting leadership and academic goals.
Universities may also ask for recommendation letters. Prepare these early to avoid last‑minute stress and demonstrate your passion for the chosen field, to strengthen your application and boost acceptance chances.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary by university and intake. Generally:
– AUB: March–April for Fall.
– KU: May 15 for 2024–25.
– ZU: March 1 for 2024–25.
– AUS: April 15 for Fall.
Check each school’s admissions page for the most current dates and plan your application timeline accordingly.
With these FAQs answered, you’re better equipped to choose the right program and submit a strong application. The next section will walk you through the step‑by‑step application process, ensuring no detail is missed.
2025 admissions sit at a crossroads, and every click can steer your future.
The sortable tables in this guide act as a compass, turning raw data into clear paths.
Let’s turn that compass into a roadmap you can walk today.
Ready to map your next move?
1. Grab the Tables, Grab the Power
- Sort by university, major, or fee to find your sweet spot.
- Filter by entry requirements to see only the programs you qualify for.
- Export the table to Excel or Google Sheets for a personal dashboard.
2. Set a Timeline Like a Race
Do you know the exact deadline? Create a Gantt‑style chart:
– Month 1‑2: Gather transcripts and test scores.
– Month 3: Draft personal statements and request recommendation letters.
– Month 4: Submit applications and pay fees.
– Month 5: Track decisions and prepare acceptance packages.
3. Hunt for Scholarship Gold
- Search the scholarships section on each university’s site.
- Apply early—many scholarships close before the main application deadline.
- Highlight leadership, community service, and academic excellence in your essays.
4. Polish Your Documents
- Keep digital copies in PDF, 300 dpi, no more than 5 MB each.
- Label files clearly:
Name_Transcript.pdf,Name_IELTS.pdf. - Double‑check spelling—misspellings can make your application feel unprofessional.
5. Bookmark, Subscribe, Repeat
- Save this guide as a bookmark for quick reference.
- Subscribe to the university newsletters; they often announce deadline changes.
- Set calendar reminders for each milestone.
6. Talk to an Advisor
- Schedule a 30‑minute call with a university admissions officer.
- Ask about hidden perks, like internship pipelines or study‑away programs.
- Bring your timeline and document list to the meeting.
7. Take the First Step Now
Your future starts with a single click—open the sortable table, mark your chosen program, and set that first deadline. The path is clear; all we need is your action.