Khalifa University Announces Fully Funded PhD Scholarships for 2026 Abu Dhabi, UAE – Khalifa University has opened applications for its fully funded PhD scholarship program for the Spring 2026 intake. The scholarship is available to both international students and UAE nationals, offering a comprehensive package that covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.

Comprehensive Funding Package Available The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship aims to attract top talent to its doctoral programs. The fully funded nature of the scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers for outstanding students, allowing them to focus on their research and studies. The scholarship includes:

Full Tuition Fees Free Textbooks Free Accommodation Medical Insurance Flight Coverage Visa Fee Coverage Monthly Stipend

This extensive coverage makes it a highly competitive opportunity for those seeking advanced education in the United Arab Emirates.

Diverse Range of PhD Programs Offered Khalifa University offers a wide array of PhD programs across its various colleges. Aspiring doctoral candidates can choose from fields within engineering, physical sciences, computing, mathematical sciences, medicine, and health sciences. Some of the specific 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 Criteria and Application Requirements Applicants must meet specific academic requirements to be considered for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship. The requirements vary based on whether the applicant holds a Master's 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.

English Language Test Exemption: The English Language Test may be waived if the Applicant is a Native English Speaker or They have completed their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an English-medium institution.

Required Documents for Application Applicants are required to submit several 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

Expert Perspective on the Importance of Scholarships Dr. Aisha Al-Mansoori, a leading education consultant in the UAE, emphasizes the critical role of scholarships in fostering academic excellence and national development. "Scholarships like the Khalifa University PhD program are vital for building a knowledge-based economy," Dr. Al-Mansoori states. "By providing financial support to talented individuals, we are investing in the future leaders and innovators who will drive progress in the UAE and beyond. These programs not only benefit the recipients but also contribute to the overall advancement of research and development in key sectors."

Historical Context and Current Trends in UAE Education The UAE has significantly invested in higher education over the past few decades, aiming to become a regional hub for academic and research excellence. This commitment is reflected in the increasing number of scholarships and research grants offered by universities and government institutions. The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is part of this broader strategy to attract and retain top talent, aligning with the UAE's vision for a diversified and knowledge-driven economy. As the demand for skilled professionals in fields like engineering, technology, and medicine continues to grow, scholarships like these play a crucial role in meeting the evolving needs of the job market.

How to Apply Interested candidates can apply through the Khalifa University online application portal. Applicants should carefully review the eligibility criteria and required documents before submitting their application. The deadline for applications is September 15, 2025.