Khalifa University, located in Abu Dhabi, UAE, offers a prestigious and fully funded PhD Scholarship for the 2026 academic year. The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is designed for top-tier international students and UAE nationals aiming to pursue doctoral studies in cutting-edge research fields. Below is a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026.

Basic Information About the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship

Scholarship Name: Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
Intake: Spring 2026
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligible Applicants: International students and UAE nationals

University/Institution Details

Khalifa University of Science and Technology is a leading research-oriented university in the UAE, established in 1989. It is ranked among the top young universities worldwide and emphasizes advanced learning and innovation in science, technology, engineering, computing, and medical disciplines. The university fosters global research networks through collaborations with international institutions, offering students an excellent academic and research environment.

Study Areas (Available PhD Programs)

Khalifa University offers PhD programs across 15 key fields, especially through the College of Engineering, Physical Sciences, and Arts and Sciences. Popular doctorate programs include:

Aerospace Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Computer Engineering
Engineering Systems
Materials Science
Mechanical Engineering
Nuclear Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Robotics
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Earth Sciences
Molecular Life Sciences

These programs align with Khalifa University’s strategic focus on developing professionals capable of driving technology transfer and innovation in critical sectors of UAE and the region.

Khalifa University PhD Scholarship Benefits

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship is fully funded and offers generous benefits that allow recipients to focus solely on their doctoral research. Benefits include:

Full Tuition Fee Coverage: No tuition fees for the entire duration of the PhD program.
Monthly Stipend: Approximately AED 10,000 ($2,700) to cover living expenses.
Accommodation: Free on-campus housing.
Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
Airfare Support: Round-trip tickets to and from the UAE.
Visa Fees: Covered costs of UAE visa application.
Textbooks and Research Resources: Provided at no cost.
Additional Support: Research conference travel support, international research internships, and visa assistance.

Benefits Not Included

Personal travel expenses beyond the round-trip airfare.
Visa extensions beyond the program duration.
Expenses for dependents or family members.
Optional personal insurance beyond basic medical coverage.
Costs related to non-academic activities or leisure.

Eligibility Criteria for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship

Applicants must fulfill the following minimum requirements:

Academic Qualifications:
- Master’s degree holders:
  - Completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent
  - Completion of a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 3.25 out of 4.0 or equivalent
- Direct PhD (without Master’s):
  - Bachelor’s degree with a CGPA of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent plus a minimum GRE quantitative score of 150 (all sections required).
English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT score of at least 91, IELTS score of 6.5, or EmSAT 1550.
- Exemptions may be granted to native English speakers or graduates of English-medium institutions.
Additional Requirements:
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A Statement of Purpose (500-1,000 words).
- A Research Statement (for PhD applicants).
- Successful admission interview.
Enrollment Status: Full-time enrollment in the PhD program.

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants need to prepare and submit the following:

Certified copies of Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree certificates.
Official academic transcripts detailing grading scales.
GRE General Test score report (for direct PhD applicants).
Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or EmSAT scores).
Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Statement of purpose (500-1,000 words).
Research statement (500-1,000 words) (PhD applicants only).
A minimum of two referee recommendations (provided via online form).
Passport-sized photograph.
Valid passport and UAE visa (for international applicants residing in UAE).
Additional documents for UAE nationals, such as Family Book (Khulasat Al Qaid) and UAE National ID card.

Khalifa University PhD Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Research Programs: Select your desired PhD program aligning with your interests on Khalifa University’s website.
Create an Account: Register on the Khalifa University graduate admission portal.
Complete Application Form: Fill out the application form with accurate personal and academic details.
Upload Required Documents: Attach all necessary documents, including transcripts, certificates, GRE and English test scores, SOP, research statement, and recommendation letters.
Submit Application: Review all information, then submit the application before the deadline (September 15, 2025).
Admission Assessment: The university reviews applications for academic merit and research potential.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an admission interview.
Scholarship Allocation: Scholarships are awarded based on merit and alignment with university priorities.
Final Admission Offer: Successful applicants receive an admission and scholarship offer.
Enrollment: Complete enrollment formalities and begin your PhD program in Spring 2026.

Tips for a Successful Application

Tailor your Statement of Purpose to reflect your motivation and research goals clearly.
Align your research proposal with Khalifa University’s institutional research priorities.
Ensure all academic scores and certificates are officially recognized and valid.
Secure strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees familiar with your research abilities.
Prepare thoroughly for your admission interview.
Apply early to avoid last-minute technical or documentation issues.
Highlight any previous research experience, publications, or relevant projects.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)

Living costs in the UAE vary by city and lifestyle, but below are average monthly expenses for an international student:

Accommodation: $410 – $1,150 (shared apartment or university housing)
Food and Groceries: $55 – $140
Transportation: $45 – $90
Utilities (electricity, water, internet): $70 – $140
Personal Expenses (clothing, entertainment): $270 – $540

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses: Approximately $850 to $2,000

The scholarship’s monthly stipend (~$2,700) comfortably covers these living costs and provides financial stability for scholars.

Why Choose This Scholarship? (Top 5 Reasons)

Fully Funded: Covers tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses, ensuring a worry-free study experience.
World-class Research Environment: Access cutting-edge labs, collaborations with global institutions, and a diverse academic community.
Strategic Location: Study in Abu Dhabi, one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing innovation hubs.
Multiple PhD Fields: Broad range of doctorate programs aligning with future industry trends and national priorities.
Career and Networking Opportunities: Gain teaching experience, attend international conferences, and connect with industry leaders enhancing post-PhD career prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who can apply for the Khalifa University PhD Scholarship?
A1: Both UAE nationals and international students with the required academic qualifications are eligible.

Q2: Is the scholarship fully funded?
A2: Yes, it covers tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, medical insurance, airfare, visa fees, and textbooks.

Q3: What is the application deadline?
A3: The deadline for Spring 2026 intake is September 15, 2025.

Q4: Are GRE and English tests mandatory?
A4: Yes, GRE is required for direct PhD applicants, and English proficiency scores are mandatory unless exempted.

Q5: How can I apply?
A5: Apply online via Khalifa University’s graduate admission portal by submitting all required documents.

Official Link:

The Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for research-focused students seeking world-class education in the UAE. With its comprehensive benefits and strategic academic programs, it remains one of the top fully funded PhD scholarships globally.

For detailed information and application, visit the official Khalifa University website and initiate your journey toward a doctorate degree in Abu Dhabi.

Khalifa University PhD Scholarship 2026 in UAE: A Comprehensive Guide