Khalifa University PhD Scholarships 2026 in UAE – Fully Funded, Apply Now

Khalifa University, one of the most prestigious universities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has officially opened applications for its PhD Scholarships Program for the Spring 2026 intake. This is an excellent opportunity for both international students and UAE nationals who want to pursue their PhD in one of the leading research-based institutions in the Middle East.

The scholarship is fully funded, which means it covers every major expense related to studying and living in the UAE. Selected students will receive support for tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, health insurance, visa costs, airfare, and even a monthly stipend. In short, students will not need to worry about financial burdens during their studies.

This program is considered one of the best chances to pursue higher education in the UAE under full sponsorship. Below, you will find detailed information about the benefits, available programs, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

Quick Overview of Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026

• Host Country: United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• University Name: Khalifa University
• Degree Level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
• Intake Session: Spring 2026
• Application Deadline: 15 September 2025

Financial Benefits

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is designed to cover all the necessary costs of education. The package includes:

• Full tuition fee waiver (no education costs)
• Free textbooks and learning materials
• Free student accommodation
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Flight tickets (airfare support)
• UAE student visa application fees covered
• Monthly stipend to manage personal living expenses

This makes it one of the most generous scholarship programs in the region.

List of Available PhD Programs

Khalifa University offers a wide range of programs across different fields of science, engineering, computing, and health sciences. Students can apply for any of the following PhD programs:

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

To apply for the scholarship, students must meet certain academic and language requirements. The criteria are slightly different for applicants with or without a Master’s degree.

For Applicants with an MSc Degree:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent, such as upper second-class honors in the UK system).
• Master’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum CGPA of 3.25/4.0 (or equivalent).

For Applicants without an MSc Degree (Direct PhD Entry):

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0.
• GRE score with a minimum quantitative score of 150. (Note: The test must be taken at a certified test center; the home edition is not accepted. All three GRE sections must be attempted.)

English Language Requirements (for all applicants):

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 91 (must be taken at a test center).
• IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5.
• EmSAT English: Score of 1550.

English Language Test Exemptions

Applicants do not need to provide an English test score if they meet any of the following:

• They are native English speakers.
• They completed their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at an English-medium institution.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents during the online application process:

• Degree certificates and official transcripts
• UAE Ministry of Education equivalency certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/EmSAT)
• GRE score report (if applicable)
• Updated CV (resume)
• Passport-size photo
• Copy of passport and UAE visa (if available)
• Family Book (for UAE nationals only)
• UAE ID (if applicable)
• Statement of Purpose (explaining why you want to study at Khalifa University)
• Research Statement (specific to PhD applicants)
• Two letters of recommendation
• Interview (shortlisted candidates may be invited)

How to Apply?

The application process for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 is completely online.

1. Visit the official application portal (link available on Khalifa University’s website).
2. Fill out the online form with correct personal and academic details.
3. Upload all the required documents.
4. Submit your application before the deadline (15 September 2025).

This scholarship provides an incredible chance to pursue advanced research in a world-class environment while enjoying full financial support. Students who are passionate about research, innovation, and academic excellence should not miss this opportunity.

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