MBZUAI offers students a choice of undergraduate and graduate programs in a modern and innovative university setting, located in the thriving capital of the UAE. Combining a contemporary education system and robust curriculum with the rich culture and heritage of Abu Dhabi, MBZUAI Scholarship offers an experience like no other.

Basic Information About the MBZUAI Scholarship 2026

The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, is offering a fully funded scholarship for the 2026 intake. This prestigious scholarship supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degree programs in cutting-edge AI disciplines and is open to international students, UAE nationals, and residents. The application deadlines are December 15, 2025, for graduate programs (Master’s and PhD) and April 30, 2026, for undergraduate programs. Applicants who apply by the priority deadline of November 15, 2025, for graduate programs have a better chance as those applications are reviewed first. The scholarship includes 100% tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, health insurance, UAE visa sponsorship for non-UAE nationals, and on-campus accommodation benefits for selected levels of study.

University Details – Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI)

MBZUAI is the world’s first graduate-level university solely dedicated to artificial intelligence education and research. Located in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, it offers an innovative and globally recognized learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant international student community. The university emphasizes cutting-edge AI disciplines and maintains strong links to industry leaders and research institutions, providing students with unparalleled research and career opportunities.

Available Study Areas and Programs

MBZUAI offers scholarship-supported degree programs at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD level in highly specialized AI fields, including:

Master’s Programs at MBZUAI

MBZUAI offers the following Master of Science (M.Sc.) programs:

• CV: Master of Science in Computer Vision
• ML: Master of Science in Machine Learning
• NLP: Master of Science in Natural Language Processing
• R: Master of Science in Robotics
• CS: Master of Science in Computer Science

PhD Programs at MBZUAI

MBZUAI offers the following PhD programs:

• CV: Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Vision
• ML: Doctor of Philosophy in Machine Learning
• NLP: Doctor of Philosophy in Natural Language Processing
• R: Doctor of Philosophy in Robotics
• CS: Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science

• Bachelor’s degree programs focusing on AI (with specific fields depending on annual university offerings)

The scholarship applies fully to Master’s and PhD programs, while undergraduate scholarships have separate deadlines and terms.

MBZUAI Scholarship Benefits

The fully funded MBZUAI scholarship offers an extensive financial package, including:

• 100% tuition fee waiver for the entire duration of the program
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Health insurance coverage throughout studies
• UAE visa sponsorship for non-UAE nationals
• On-campus accommodation (free or subsidized, primarily for undergraduates and first-year graduate students with a monthly fee deducted from the stipend)
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and academic support
• Opportunity to engage with world-class faculty and industry leaders.

Benefits Not Included

• Personal housing beyond the university-provided accommodation (if chosen off-campus)
• Living expenses outside of the scholarship stipend may require personal funds or additional support
• Travel costs to and from the UAE are typically not included
• Some student services or facilities may incur extra charges outside the scholarship scope.

Eligibility Criteria for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• For Master’s programs: A four-year Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a STEM field relevant to AI (e.g., Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics) with a minimum GPA of 3.2/4.0
• For PhD programs: A relevant Master’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.2/4.0, or direct PhD entry with a Bachelor’s degree having at least a 3.5 GPA in STEM fields
• Demonstrated English proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL
  • For Masters
    • IBT TOEFL: 90 or higher
    • IELTS: 6.0 or higher
    • EmSAT English: 1550 or higher
    • English Test waiver is available for citizens of the UK, USA, Australia, and New Zealand
  • For Phd
    • TOEFL: IBT TOEFL score of 90 or equivalent.
    • IELTS: IELTS score of 6.0 or higher.
    • EmSAT English: EmSAT English score of 1550 or higher.
    • English Test waiver is available for citizens of the UK, USA, Australia, and New Zealand
• Strong academic and research background aligned to artificial intelligence fields
• Committed to full-time study and maintaining high academic standards during the program
• Open to all nationalities, including UAE nationals and residents.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• Completed online application form via the MBZUAI portal
• Bachelor’s degree/diploma and transcripts (for Master’s applicants) or Master’s degree documents (for PhD applicants)
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume demonstrating academic and research experience
• Statement of Purpose outlining research interests and motivations
• Letters of recommendation (generally two or three academic references)
• Passport copy and UAE residency documents (if applicable)
• Additional documents for UAE nationals/residents such as Emirates ID, national service documents, and family book (if applicable)
• Research proposal for PhD applicants (detailed outline of intended research).

MBZUAI Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the MBZUAI official admission portal and create an account.
2. Complete the online application form carefully, providing personal and academic details.
3. Upload all required documents in the prescribed formats.
4. Submit the application before the priority (Nov 15, 2025) or final deadline (Dec 15, 2025) for graduate programs; undergraduate deadline is April 30, 2026.
5. Monitor your email and application portal for admission decision notifications by March 15, 2026.
6. Respond to admission offers by April 15, 2026.
7. If admitted, proceed with visa processing and preparing for enrollment.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Apply early before the priority deadline to increase chances of review priority.
• Tailor your Statement of Purpose to highlight your AI research interests and career goals.
• Secure strong recommendation letters from academic or professional mentors who can attest to your skills and potential.
• Review eligibility carefully and provide all accurate documents to avoid delays.
• Demonstrate English proficiency with competitive scores.
• Follow instructions strictly on document formatting and submission procedures.
• Prepare a convincing research proposal if applying for the PhD program.
• Maintain a professional, clear, and articulate application presentation.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)

Living costs can vary but here is an estimated breakdown:

• Accommodation (on-campus): Approximately $2,000 per month (deducted from the stipend)
• Food and groceries: $300–$500 per month
• Transportation: $100–$200 per month
• Utilities and Internet: $100 per month
• Personal expenses: $200–$300 per month
• Total estimated monthly living expense: Around $2,700 to $3,100

The monthly stipend provided helps cover housing and basic living costs, but budgeting carefully is advised.

Why Choose the MBZUAI Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons

1. Fully funded package: Complete tuition coverage, stipend, housing, health insurance, and visa sponsorship remove financial burdens.
2. World-class AI education: Study at the first global university dedicated solely to AI with cutting-edge research opportunities.
3. Strategic location in Abu Dhabi: Access to a thriving innovation hub with connections to multinational tech industries and research centers.
4. Diverse international community: Collaborate with top AI talents from around the world in a multicultural environment.
5. Career and research advancement: Learn from globally recognized faculty and gain exposure to impactful AI projects shaping the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who can apply for the MBZUAI scholarship?
A1: International students, UAE nationals, and residents meeting academic and English requirements can apply.

Q2: Is the scholarship available for undergraduate studies?
A2: Yes, but with separate deadlines and process; most benefits are geared to graduate students.

Q3: What documents are required to prove English proficiency?
A3: IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent accepted by MBZUAI.

Q4: Does the scholarship cover family or travel expenses?
A4: No, the scholarship generally covers only tuition, stipend, health insurance, accommodation, and visa sponsorship.

Q5: Can I apply if my GPA is below 3.2?
A5: The minimum requirement is generally 3.2; applicants below this may face challenges unless exceptions are granted.

Q6: When will I know if I am admitted?
A6: Decision notification is usually by March 15, 2026, for graduate programs.

Q7: Can I work while studying on this scholarship?
A7: Visa and university regulations may apply; primary focus is full-time study.

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This comprehensive guide offers all essential details about the MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 in Abu Dhabi, designed for prospective students aiming to elevate their careers in AI with a fully funded education in the UAE. Applicants should prepare early and carefully to leverage this unique opportunity to study at a global AI leader.