American University in Dubai Scholarships
Dreaming of a world-class American education in the vibrant heart of Dubai? The American University in Dubai (AUD) offers an array of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate students for the 2025-2026 academic year. These scholarships are a fantastic opportunity to pursue your academic ambitions without the burden of significant financial costs, opening doors to a global career and a rich cultural experience.
Dubai, a hub of innovation and international collaboration, provides an unparalleled environment for higher education. With its cutting-edge infrastructure, diverse population, and thriving economy, studying in Dubai allows students to gain a global perspective and enhance their career prospects significantly.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top scholarships available at the American University in Dubai, covering eligibility, benefits, the application process, and crucial deadlines.
Why Choose the American University in Dubai (AUD)?
AUD is a reputable institution offering a North American-style education within an international context. The university is committed to providing a high-quality learning environment and fostering academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. Its diverse student body and faculty create a truly global campus experience.
Top American University in Dubai Scholarships 2025-2026
AUD offers various scholarships, some of which can be fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, and even accommodation. Here’s a look at some of the prominent opportunities:
Undergraduate Scholarships:
- H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Scholarship:
- Benefits: This scholarship can cover partial or full tuition fees, subject to approval by the Scholarship Committee. It’s granted for the first academic year and can be maintained until graduation if eligibility conditions are met.
- Eligibility: Open to all nationalities. High school applicants should generally have at least a 90% grade average (or equivalent). Financial need is also considered.
- Programs: Available for all undergraduate programs.
- The Gebran Tueni Media Scholarship:
- Benefits: Covers a waiver of tuition for one academic year (two semesters) until graduation, and may also include dorms and visa charges (subject to government regulations).
- Eligibility: Primarily for Lebanese nationals with an excellent academic average in high school. Applicants must submit a portfolio of creative work and sit for a qualifying interview.
- The Mohammed Bin Rashid School for Communication Scholarship:
- Benefits: Offers a tuition waiver for one academic year until graduation. Students are generally required to volunteer 40 hours per semester.
- Eligibility: Open to Arab Nationals applying to the Arabic track of the B.C.I.S. degree program (majoring in Digital Production and Storytelling or Journalism) with at least a 90% high school grade average. A portfolio and interview are usually required.
- The William Jefferson Clinton Scholarship at AUD:
- Benefits: Provides a full waiver of tuition for one semester (Fall or Spring) and on-campus shared-room housing at AUD.
- Eligibility: Exclusively for U.S. citizens currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate degree candidates at an accredited four-year college/university in the United States. Exemplary academic achievement is essential.
- ICT Funds Scholarship for Undergraduate Admissions:
- Benefits: Covers a full waiver of tuition for one academic year (two semesters) until graduation and often includes a monthly allowance.
- Eligibility: Primarily for UAE Nationals applying to Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering Programs at AUD. Candidates must have a good academic average in their secondary certificate, fulfill AUD’s admissions requirements, and generally be under 24 years old. A commitment to work in the UAE ICT sector post-graduation is often required.
- The Dubai Electricity And Water Authority (DEWA) Intilaq Scholarship:
- Benefits: Offers a full tuition waiver, a generous monthly allowance (e.g., AED 6,500), medical insurance for the duration of study, and additional rewards.
- Eligibility: Open to UAE Nationals with a minimum 80% high school certificate average. Successful completion of written tests and interviews, and a commitment to work at DEWA post-graduation, are typically required.
- AUD Senior Scholarship:
- Benefits: Can cover 25%, 50%, or 100% of tuition (not exceeding 32 credit hours, one academic year).
- Eligibility: Students must have achieved “senior status” (completed all but 30-32 credit hours), maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.5, and have no Conduct Code violations.
Graduate Scholarships:
- The AUD Alumni Tuition Waiver:
- Benefits: Offers a 25% tuition waiver until graduation.
- Eligibility: Open to AUD alumni admitted to any AUD graduate program.
- The AUD School of Education Tuition Waiver:
- Benefits: Provides a 40% tuition waiver for qualified applicants.
- Eligibility: Requires acceptance to the desired program and proof of current employment in the education sector (e.g., teachers, teacher assistants, school administrators).
Eligibility Criteria For The American University in Dubai Scholarships
While specific criteria vary for each scholarship, here are some common requirements you’ll encounter:
- Academic Excellence: A strong academic record is paramount. For undergraduate scholarships, a high school average of 90% or equivalent is often a baseline. For graduate programs, a strong undergraduate GPA is expected.
- Nationality: Some scholarships are open to all nationalities, while others are specific to UAE Nationals, U.S. citizens, or Arab Nationals.
- Financial Need: For certain scholarships, demonstrating genuine financial need is a key component of the application.
- Program Specificity: Some scholarships are tied to particular academic programs or fields of study (e.g., Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Journalism, Education).
- Extracurricular Activities & Leadership: Demonstrating involvement in community service, leadership roles, and relevant extracurricular activities can strengthen your application.
- English Proficiency: If English is not your native language, you will likely need to provide scores from recognized English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
- Interviews & Portfolios: Certain scholarships, especially in creative fields or communication, may require an interview and/or a portfolio of your work.
Application Process For The American University in Dubai Scholarships
Applying for AUD scholarships generally involves the following steps:
- Gain Admission to AUD: You must first apply for admission to your desired undergraduate or graduate program at the American University in Dubai. Scholarship applications are typically considered after you have received an offer of admission.
- Identify Eligible Scholarships: Thoroughly research the scholarships offered by AUD on their official website (aud.edu). Pay close attention to the specific eligibility criteria for each.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare all necessary documents, which may include:
- Official academic transcripts (high school or university)
- Letters of recommendation (academic and/or professional)
- A compelling personal statement or essay outlining your academic goals, motivations, and why you deserve the scholarship.
- Proof of citizenship or residency.
- English proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.).
- Financial documentation (if applying for need-based scholarships).
- A portfolio of creative work (for specific programs like media or art).
- A valid passport copy (for international students).
- Medical certificates (for certain scholarships or visa requirements).
- Submit Your Scholarship Application: Follow the instructions provided on the AUD scholarship portal or admissions website. Some scholarships may have a separate application form, while others are automatically considered upon admission.
- Attend Interviews (If Required): If an interview is part of the selection process, prepare to discuss your academic achievements, aspirations, and suitability for the scholarship.
Benefits of American University in Dubai Scholarships
The benefits of securing a scholarship at the American University in Dubai can be substantial and truly transformative:
- Tuition Fee Coverage: Many scholarships offer partial or full tuition fee waivers, significantly reducing the cost of your education.
- Living Allowances: Some fully funded scholarships provide a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including food and personal necessities.
- Accommodation: Certain scholarships may include on-campus housing, alleviating the burden of finding and paying for accommodation.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage may be part of the scholarship package for international students.
- Travel Costs: For some fully funded scholarships, travel assistance (e.g., flights to and from your home country) may be included.
- Access to World-Class Education: Scholarships enable you to receive a prestigious American-style education in a dynamic international setting.
- Networking Opportunities: Studying at AUD connects you with a diverse community of students and faculty, opening doors to valuable networking opportunities.
- Career Advancement: A degree from AUD, coupled with the international exposure gained in Dubai, can significantly boost your career prospects.
Application Deadlines 2025-2026
Scholarship application deadlines for the 2025-2026 academic year vary depending on the specific scholarship and the intake semester (Fall or Spring).
- Fall Semester Applications: Early applications are often preferred, with submissions typically accepted up until March/April. Late applications may be considered through July/August.
- Spring Semester Applications: Early applications for the Spring semester are usually open until October/November, with late applications accepted through December/January.
It is crucial to visit the official American University in Dubai website (www.aud.edu) and its admissions/scholarships section for the most accurate and up-to-date deadlines for each specific scholarship program you are interested in. Deadlines can change, and being aware of the precise dates is essential for a successful application.
Conclusion
The American University in Dubai scholarships for 2025-2026 present an exceptional opportunity for aspiring undergraduate and graduate students worldwide. By offering significant financial support, AUD empowers talented individuals to pursue their academic dreams in a globally recognized institution.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to academic excellence, exploring these scholarship opportunities could be your pathway to a bright future in the heart of Dubai. Start preparing your application today and take the first step towards an enriching educational journey!