Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 in UAE For International And Domestic Students (Fully Funded)

Higher education is becoming more competitive and expensive each year, especially for those aiming to pursue a PhD at a world-class institution. For those ambitious researchers and future academics, securing a fully funded scholarship can be life-changing and make their educatuonal journey quite easy.

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 in the UAE is one such golden opportunity that allows outstanding students to earn a doctorate in a wide range of disciplines while receiving full financial support.

Khalifa University is ranked among the top universities in the Middle East located in Abu Dhabi, and is known for its cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong focus on innovation and technology.

The university brings together students, researchers, and faculty from around the world, making it a hub for scientific discovery and academic excellence.

The PhD scholarship for Spring 2026 is open to both international students and UAE nationals. It covers tuition fees, flights, accommodation, visa costs, health insurance, and even textbooks, ensuring that scholars can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.

Whether you are interested in engineering, computer science, medicine, or applied sciences, this scholarship provides the resources, mentorship, and environment to help you achieve academic and professional success.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026, including eligibility requirements, benefits, available programs, required documents, and how to apply.

Let us discuss some important information regarding this PhD scholarship.

About Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026

Financial Benefits

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is fully funded scholarship, offering generous support for all selected candidates. It includes:

• Comprehensive Tuition Support: The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees for the entire duration of the PhD program, allowing students to pursue their research without worrying about academic costs.
• On-Campus Accommodation: Selected candidates will be provided with fully funded on-campus housing to ensure a comfortable and safe living environment close to academic and research facilities.
• Round-Trip Airfare: Scholars receive airfare coverage that ensures the international travel to and from the UAE convenient and affordable.
• Medical Insurance: Health insurance is also included for the scholar.
• Visa Processing Costs: All UAE visa application fees are covered under the scholarship, reducing administrative and financial burdens for international students.
• Study Resources and Textbooks: The scholarship provides free textbooks and essential study materials to make the PhD journey smooth and cost effective.

This ensures that students can focus entirely on their research without financial stress.

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List of PhD Programs at Khalifa University

College of Engineering and Physical Sciences:

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

All aplicants must satisfy the following eligibility criteria before applying for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026.

For Applicants with a Master’s Degree

• Bachelor’s Degree: CGPA of at least 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
• Master’s Degree: CGPA of at least 3.25/4.0 (or equivalent).

For Direct PhD Applicants (without a Master’s)

• Bachelor’s Degree: CGPA of at least 3.5/4.0 (or equivalent).
• GRE Requirement: Minimum quantitative score of 150 (must be taken at a test center).
• Must attempt all three GRE sections.

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English Language Requirements

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 91 (test-center only).
• IELTS Academic: Overall band of 6.5.
• EmSAT English: Minimum score of 1550.

English Language Test Exemption:

Applicants may be exempted if:

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

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Statement of Purpose
• Passport photo
• Two recommendation letters
• Family Book (for UAE nationals only)
• GRE score report (if applicable)
• UAE ID (if applicable)
• Research statement (for PhD applicants)
• English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL/EmSAT)
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• Passport copy and UAE visa (if applicable)
• UAE Ministry of Education Equivalency Certificate (if applicable)
• Interview (for shortlisted candidates)

Application Process

The application process is conducted online. Interested candidates can follow this steps:

1. Visit the official Khalifa University application portal.
2. Complete all required sections of the online form.
3. Upload all necessary documents.
4. Submit the application before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026?
Both international students and UAE nationals can apply for this fully funded scholarship.

2. What is the deadline to apply?
The last date to submit an application is 15 September 2025.

3. Do I need to submit GRE scores?
Yes, GRE scores are required for direct PhD applicants (without a Master’s degree).

4. Can the English language test requirement be waived?
Yes, if you are a native English speaker or if your previous degree was taught in English.

5. Does the scholarship cover living expenses?
Yes, the scholarship covers free accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.