Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026 in UAE (Fully Funded) – Complete Guide for International Students

Applications for the Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026 in the United Arab Emirates are now officially open, offering one of the most comprehensive scholarship systems in the region for international students. These scholarships—available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees—provide a unique opportunity to pursue world-class education in one of the most dynamic and rapidly developing countries in the world.

The program is designed to support high-achieving, academically talented, and ambitious students who wish to continue their studies in the UAE without bearing tuition fees or other academic charges. Several categories of fully funded and partially funded scholarships are offered, ensuring that students from different academic and financial backgrounds can find a suitable funding opportunity.

Abu Dhabi University (ADU), a leading private institution established in 2003, has grown into one of the largest and most respected universities in the UAE. Today, the university hosts over 8,000 students from more than 70 nationalities, across its four campuses in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, and Dubai. The institution is widely recognized for its academic excellence, modern facilities, research environment, and international accreditation in numerous programs.

This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about the Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026, including available scholarship types, financial coverage, eligibility requirements, documents needed, academic fields, and the step-by-step application process.

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1. Overview of Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026

Host University:

Abu Dhabi University (ADU)

Degree Levels:

Bachelor’s – Master’s – PhD

Funding Type:

Fully Funded & Partially Funded (depending on scholarship category)

Eligible Applicants:

All nationalities (international students + UAE residents)

Study Location:

United Arab Emirates

Application Deadline:

20 February 2026 (Spring Intake)

Abu Dhabi University offers one of the most diverse and generous scholarship systems in the Gulf region. Scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership potential, and athletic performance, or are extended to outstanding ADU alumni and high-achieving graduates.

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2. Why Study in the UAE Through Abu Dhabi University Scholarships?

The UAE has become a global hub for innovation, technology, and higher education. Abu Dhabi University stands out for several reasons:

1. Fully Funded Scholarships Covering All Fees

Several scholarship categories offer 100% coverage of tuition fees, registration, student services, and health service charges—ensuring that selected students study at no financial cost.

2. High International Recognition

ADU holds international accreditation from organizations such as WASC, ABET, and AACSB, ensuring global recognition of degrees.

3. Modern Campuses and Research Facilities

Cutting-edge labs, smart classrooms, and advanced research spaces create an ideal learning environment for undergraduate and graduate studies.

4. Diverse Academic Programs

With more than 50 Bachelor’s and Master’s programs and a growing doctoral portfolio, students can choose from nearly all major academic fields.

5. A Multicultural Environment

Students interact with peers from dozens of countries, enhancing intercultural communication and global employability.

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3. Financial Coverage and Types of Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026

Abu Dhabi University provides multiple scholarship tracks. Some offer full coverage, while others provide partial tuition waivers. Below is a detailed breakdown.

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A. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship (100% Fully Funded)

A prestigious scholarship offered to top-performing international students.

Coverage:

• 100% Tuition Fee Waiver

• 100% Application Fee Waiver

• 100% Registration Fee Waiver

• Student Services Fee waived

• Health Service Fee waived

This is one of the most competitive scholarships, targeting students with exceptional academic performance and leadership potential.

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B. Chairman’s Scholarship (100% Fully Funded)

Awarded to students demonstrating outstanding academic performance and commitment to community or extracurricular excellence.

Coverage:

• 100% Tuition Fee Waiver

• Application, Registration, Services & Health Fees fully waived

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C. University Scholarship (For UAE & GCC Students Only)

Designed for students from the UAE and GCC countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman.

Coverage:

10% – 50% Tuition Fee Waiver.

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D. Academic Scholarship (20% Waiver)

Available to continuing Abu Dhabi University students who maintain high academic performance during their studies.

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E. Athletic Scholarship (25% Waiver)

Aimed at students with strong athletic backgrounds who actively represent the university in sports.

Coverage:

25% Tuition Fee Waiver per academic year.

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F. Alumni Scholarship (20% Waiver)

Abu Dhabi University alumni pursuing graduate studies at ADU receive a 20% discount on tuition fees at the Master’s or PhD levels.

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G. Merit-Based Graduate Scholarship (25% Waiver)

For applicants to postgraduate programs with outstanding undergraduate academic performance.

Requirement:

Minimum CGPA of 3.5/4.0 in the undergraduate degree.

Coverage:

25% Tuition Fee Waiver for graduate studies.

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4. Key Features of the Scholarship System

The Abu Dhabi University scholarship model is structured to ensure transparency and fairness:

• Scholarships begin only after formal admission

Applicants must first secure admission and receive a unique student ID, which allows access to the scholarship portal.

• Maximum scholarship duration

Up to 4 years, depending on the program and maintaining eligibility criteria.

• Automatic scholarship visibility

Scholarships for which the student qualifies appear directly in their university portal based on academic records submitted during admission.

• Merit-based evaluation

Scholarships are offered based strictly on academic and extracurricular merit—ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants.

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5. Academic Fields Available at Abu Dhabi University (Bachelor, Master, PhD)

Abu Dhabi University offers nearly all academic disciplines across engineering, business, sciences, media, health sciences, information technology, and more.

Bachelor’s Programs (Examples):

• Civil Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Information Technology

• Software Engineering

• Architecture

• Electrical Engineering

• Business Administration (Finance, Accounting, Management, Marketing)

• Mass Communication

• Public Health

• Applied Sciences

• Environmental Health and Safety

Master’s & Doctoral Programs:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Engineering Management (MEM)

• Master in Information Technology

• Master in Education

• Master in Strategic Leadership

• Master in Project Management

• MSc in Special Education

• MSc in Architecture

• PhD in Engineering

• PhD in Business Administration

• PhD in Education

• Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

(If you want a complete detailed list with links, I can add them.)

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6. Documents Required for Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026

Applicants must prepare the following:

1. Completed Online Application Form

2. Certified Copy of the Degree Certificate

   • High school certificate for Bachelor’s applicants

   • Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants

   • Master’s degree for PhD applicants

3. Official Academic Transcripts

4. Passport-size Photo (White Background)

5. Copy of Valid Passport

6. English Language Proficiency Certificate:

   • IELTS 5.0

   • TOEFL IBT 61

   • TOEFL ITP 500

(ADU may accept alternatives based on country of origin—ask me to add details if needed.)

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7. Eligibility Criteria for Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026

To qualify, applicants must meet the general university admission criteria as well as scholarship-specific requirements.

General Requirements (All Applicants):

• Open to all international students and UAE residents.

• High school diploma for Bachelor’s applications.

• Bachelor’s degree with minimum CGPA 2.5/4.0 for Master’s programs.

• Master’s degree with minimum CGPA 3.0/4.0 for PhD programs.

• At least 2 years of full-time work experience for PhD applicants.

Important Note:

Each scholarship type has unique eligibility criteria (academic scores, achievements, etc.). Applicants must review each scholarship’s requirements individually.

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8. Application Timeline for 2026

Spring Semester (2026)

• 20 February 2026: Registration Deadline

• 23 February 2026: First Day of Classes

Summer Semester (2026)

• 26 June 2026: Registration Deadline

• 30 June 2026: First Day of Classes

Fall Semester (2026)

• 22 August 2026: Registration Deadline

• 26 August 2026: First Day of Classes

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9. How to Apply for Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026

The application process is entirely online.

Steps:

1. Submit an admission application via the Abu Dhabi University Application Portal.

2. Receive your student ID after admission approval.

3. Log into your ADU account → Financial Aid & Scholarships section.

4. View available scholarships automatically matched to your profile.

5. Fill out the scholarship application(s) you are eligible for.

6. Upload any additional documents required.

7. Submit and wait for evaluation.

I can also write a step-by-step guide with screenshots style if you want it for your blog.

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10. Final Thoughts

The Abu Dhabi University Scholarships 2026 represent one of the most comprehensive and generous funding opportunities in the Middle East. Whether you aim to pursue undergraduate studies, a Master’s degree, or a doctoral program, ADU’s scholarship system makes top-tier education accessible, affordable, and globally competitive.

Students interested in studying in the UAE—especially those seeking fully funded scholarships—should strongly consider applying before the deadlines. The combination of academic excellence, international environment, and financial support makes Abu Dhabi University a leading destination for ambitious learners worldwide.

Apply Link

Official Link