Khalifa University Announces Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for 2026

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Khalifa University has announced the opening of applications for its fully funded PhD scholarships for the academic year 2026, offering a significant opportunity for both international students and UAE nationals to pursue advanced research in a variety of fields. The scholarship covers all major expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, airfare, monthly stipends, textbooks, and UAE visa application fees.

Comprehensive Funding Package Attracts Global Talent

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is designed to attract top-tier talent from across the globe. The comprehensive funding package removes financial barriers, allowing students to focus entirely on their research and academic pursuits. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025, for the Spring 2026 intake.

Diverse Range of PhD Programs Available

Khalifa University offers a wide array of PhD programs across its colleges. These programs include:

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences:

PhD in Chemistry PhD in Earth Sciences PhD in Physics PhD in Aerospace Engineering PhD in Chemical Engineering PhD in Civil Engineering PhD in Electrical Engineering PhD in Engineering Systems and Management PhD in Materials Science and Engineering PhD in Mechanical Engineering PhD in Nuclear Engineering PhD in Petroleum Engineering

College Of Computing And Mathematical Sciences:

PhD in Mathematics PhD in Computer Science PhD in Computer and Information Engineering PhD in Robotics

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES:

PhD in Biomedical Engineering PhD in Biomedical Sciences PhD in Molecular Life Sciences PhD in Public Health

Eligibility Requirements for Prospective Candidates

Applicants must meet specific criteria to be considered for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship. The requirements vary depending on whether the applicant holds an MSc degree.

For Applicants with an MSc Degree:

Bachelor's Degree: Completion in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Master's Degree: Completion in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.25/4.0 (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.

For Applicants without an MSc Degree (Direct PhD):

Bachelor's Degree: Completion in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. GRE: Minimum quantitative score of 150 (must be taken at a test center; Home Edition not accepted). All three sections of the GRE must be attempted.

English Proficiency (for all applicants):

iBT TOEFL: Score of 91 (must be taken at a test center; Home Edition not accepted), or equivalent. Academic IELTS: Overall score of 6.5. EmSAT English: Score of 1550.

The English Language Test may be waived if the applicant is a Native English Speaker or has completed their Bachelor's or Master's degree from an English-medium institution.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:

Degrees and Certificates UAE Ministry of Education Equivalency Certificate (if applicable) Official Transcripts English Proficiency Score (IELTS/TOEFL/EmSAT) GRE Score Report (if applicable) CV Passport Photo Passport & UAE Visa (if applicable) Family Book (UAE Nationals) UAE ID (if applicable) Statement of Purpose Research Statement (PhD applicants) Two Recommendation Letters Interview

Historical Context and the UAE's Investment in Education

The Khalifa University scholarship program reflects the UAE's broader commitment to investing in higher education and research. Historically, the UAE has prioritized education as a cornerstone of its national development strategy. "This scholarship program is a testament to the UAE's vision of becoming a knowledge-based economy," says Dr. Aisha Al-Mansoori, an education policy analyst at the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research. "By attracting talented researchers and fostering innovation, Khalifa University plays a crucial role in achieving this goal."

Scholarship programs like this are vital for developing local expertise and attracting international talent. Professor David Lee, a scholar specializing in international education at the University of Oxford, notes, "Fully funded scholarships are powerful tools for universities to compete globally for the best students. They not only provide financial support but also enhance the university's reputation and contribute to a diverse and intellectually stimulating research environment."

Application Process

The application process is entirely online. Prospective students can access the application portal through the Khalifa University website, complete all required sections, and upload the necessary documents.