Can international students apply for ADU scholarships?

Yes. Over 80% of ADU students are international, and most merit and need-based awards are open to all nationalities.

What GPA keeps a scholarship active?

You must maintain a minimum 3.0 CGPA each semester. Falling below triggers a one-semester probation.

Is the AED 300 application fee refundable?

No. The fee is non-refundable, but it is credited toward your first semester tuition if you enroll.

Can I combine two ADU scholarships?

No. You may receive only one institutional scholarship. External sponsorships can sometimes be stacked; check with the sponsor.

When will I know the scholarship decision?

Most decisions are emailed within 10 working days after the interview or assessment.

How to Apply for Scholarship in Abu Dhabi University 2026

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Quick answer

Apply online through the Abu Dhabi University (ADU) admissions portal, upload the required documents, and submit your scholarship application before the 30 June 2026 deadline. Most merit and need-based awards cover 20-100% of tuition; the exact amount depends on your GPA, test scores, and financial situation. Confirm your eligibility and current fees directly with ADU’s Financial Aid Office.

Why study at Abu Dhabi University?

Abu Dhabi University is a KHDA-licensed, Ministry-accredited institution with campuses in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. It offers 50+ undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, business, health sciences, law, and the arts. International students make up 80% of the student body, and the university maintains strong ties with industry partners such as Mubadala, ADNOC, and Etihad Airways.

Types of scholarships available in 2026

Merit-based scholarships

Awarded automatically when your high-school average or university GPA meets the threshold. Typical discounts range from 20% to 50% and can rise to 100% for Emirati students or students with 95%+ scores.

Need-based grants

Offered to students who demonstrate genuine financial hardship. You must submit salary slips, bank statements, and a sponsor letter. Awards vary from 15% to 75% of tuition.

Special talent & athletic scholarships

Students with proven excellence in sports, music, or community service may receive 25-40% tuition waivers. Separate application forms and trials are required.

External sponsorships

Many government entities (ICP, MOHRE, Abu Dhabi Government) and private companies offer full scholarships. Apply directly through their portals and request a conditional offer from ADU first.

Eligibility checklist

Minimum 80% in high school (or 3.0 CGPA for transfers)
Valid Emirates ID or passport
IELTS 5.5 / TOEFL iBT 71 or EMSAT English 1250
Proof of financial need (for need-based awards)
Medical fitness certificate from DHA or HAAD

Step-by-step application process

Step 1: Create an account

Visit the ADU admissions portal, click “Apply Now”, and create a student account using your email. Keep the password safe; you will use it for all future logins.

Step 2: Fill in the application form

Enter your personal details, academic history, and program choice. Indicate that you wish to be considered for scholarships by ticking the financial-aid box.

Step 3: Upload documents

Scan and upload: attested high-school transcripts, passport copy, Emirates ID, English test results, and passport-size photo. Need-based applicants must also upload three months of bank statements and sponsor salary certificates.

Step 4: Pay the application fee

Pay the non-refundable AED 300 application fee online via card. Keep the receipt; you will need it if you request a refund or deferral.

Step 5: Submit scholarship essay

Write a 300-500 word essay explaining your academic goals and financial situation. Save the file as PDF and upload it before you hit “Submit”.

Step 6: Attend an interview or assessment

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview or a placement test. Have your webcam ready and test your internet connection beforehand.

Step 7: Receive the decision

Decisions are emailed within 10 working days. If successful, you will receive an offer letter stating the scholarship percentage and any conditions.

Important 2026 deadlines

Fall intake (September): 30 June 2026
Spring intake (January): 15 December 2026
Summer intensive: 1 April 2026

Late applications are placed on a waiting list and lose priority for the most generous awards.

Common mistakes to avoid

Submitting un-attested documents from outside the UAE
Missing the scholarship essay or submitting a generic one
Ignoring the financial-aid section of the form
Applying for the wrong semester and losing a year
Not checking spam folders for interview invitations

Cost of studying at ADU in 2026

Undergraduate tuition averages AED 60,000-75,000 per year. Scholarships can reduce this to AED 30,000 or less. Additional costs include AED 3,000 for books, AED 2,500 for health insurance, and AED 1,500 for transportation. Always verify current fee with the ADU Finance Office.

After you receive the scholarship

Sign and return the scholarship agreement within 7 days
Pay the remaining tuition balance or set up a payment plan
Register for at least 15 credit hours to keep the award active
Maintain the required GPA (usually 3.0) each semester

Key takeaway

Applying for a scholarship at Abu Dhabi University is straightforward if you prepare your documents early, meet the English and academic thresholds, and submit a compelling essay. Start your application at least eight weeks before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues, and always confirm the latest fees and requirements directly with ADU.