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. The prestigious program is open to both international students and UAE nationals, offering a comprehensive package covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other essential costs. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.

Comprehensive Funding Package Attracts Global Talent

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship aims to attract top-tier researchers to contribute to the UAE's growing research and development sector. The scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage, free textbooks, free accommodation, medical insurance, flight coverage, and visa fee coverage. Additionally, recipients receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, allowing them to focus solely on their academic pursuits.

Wide Range of Doctoral Programs Available

The university offers a diverse range of PhD programs across its various colleges, including:

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

Stringent Eligibility Criteria for Aspiring Candidates

Applicants must meet specific academic requirements to be considered for the 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.

All applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency through one of the following:

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

Exemption from the English language test is possible for native English speakers or those who have completed their Bachelor's or Master's degree from an English-medium institution.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents, including:

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

Shortlisted candidates will also be required to attend an interview.

Historical Context and the UAE's Investment in Education

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is part of a broader effort by the UAE to invest in higher education and research. Historically, the UAE's education system relied heavily on expatriate expertise. However, in recent decades, there has been a concerted effort to build world-class universities and research institutions, fostering local talent and attracting international scholars. This initiative aligns with the UAE's vision to diversify its economy and become a knowledge-based society. Dr. Aisha Al-Salami, an education policy analyst at the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, notes, "The UAE recognizes that a strong education system is crucial for long-term economic prosperity and global competitiveness. Scholarships like this are vital for nurturing the next generation of researchers and innovators."

Expert Perspective on the Scholarship's Impact

Professor Omar Khan, a leading researcher in materials science at Khalifa University, emphasizes the importance of such scholarships in attracting exceptional students. “These scholarships are not just about financial assistance; they are about creating an environment where talented individuals can thrive and contribute to groundbreaking research. The fully funded nature of the program allows students to focus entirely on their studies, leading to higher quality research output and a more vibrant academic community,” says Professor Khan.

How to Apply

The application process is entirely online. Interested candidates can access the application portal through the Khalifa University website. Applicants are advised to carefully review all requirements and ensure that all necessary documents are submitted before the deadline of September 15, 2025.