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 scholarship program for the Spring 2026 intake. The scholarship is open to both international students and UAE nationals seeking to pursue doctoral studies in a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines. The comprehensive funding package covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, airfare support, monthly stipends, textbooks, and UAE visa application expenses, making it a highly attractive opportunity for prospective PhD candidates.

Comprehensive Funding and Diverse Program Options

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship aims to attract top talent from around the globe to contribute to the university's research-intensive environment. The fully funded nature of the scholarship alleviates financial burdens, allowing students to focus entirely on their research and academic pursuits. The university offers a diverse array of PhD programs across its colleges:

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences: PhD programs in Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Systems and Management, Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, and Petroleum Engineering. College Of Computing And Mathematical Sciences: PhD programs in Mathematics, Computer Science, Computer and Information Engineering, and Robotics. COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES: PhD programs in Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences, and Public Health.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Requirements

Applicants must meet specific academic criteria to be considered for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship. The requirements vary slightly depending 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):

Applicants must 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.

The English Language Test may be waived for native English speakers or those who have completed their Bachelor's or Master's degree from an English-medium institution.

Required Documents:

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

The Significance of Investing in Higher Education in the UAE

Dr. Aisha Al-Salami, an education policy analyst specializing in Middle Eastern higher education trends, emphasizes the strategic importance of such scholarships. "The UAE's investment in higher education, particularly in STEM fields, is a crucial component of its long-term economic diversification strategy. Scholarships like the Khalifa University PhD program are not just about funding individuals; they are about building a knowledge-based economy and fostering innovation within the region. By attracting international talent and supporting local researchers, the UAE is positioning itself as a hub for cutting-edge research and development."

Historical Context and Future Outlook

The establishment and expansion of scholarship programs in the UAE reflect a broader trend in the region towards prioritizing education as a key driver of national development. Historically, many students from the region pursued higher education abroad. However, with the growth of world-class universities within the UAE, such as Khalifa University, more opportunities are becoming available domestically. This shift is not only reducing reliance on foreign institutions but also fostering a research ecosystem tailored to the specific needs and challenges of the region.

Professor Omar Hassan, a specialist in international education, notes, "The increasing availability of fully funded scholarships in the UAE and other Gulf countries signals a commitment to building indigenous research capacity. This investment will likely lead to significant advancements in areas such as renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and healthcare, which are crucial for the region's sustainable development."

Application Deadline and Process

The deadline for applications for the Spring 2026 intake is 15th September 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Khalifa University website for detailed information and to access the online application portal.

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for aspiring researchers to pursue advanced studies in a supportive and well-funded environment, contributing to the UAE's growing prominence in the global research landscape.