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Meta description: Higher education in UAE for international students: 2 universities, tuition, requirements and deadlines. University selection and admission help.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-04
# π Studying in the UAE for international applicants
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Contents
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## Higher education in the UAE at a glance {#c1}
University of Europe for Applied Sciences (Dubai) - Dubai
The UAE has quickly become one of the region's education hubs: Dubai and Abu Dhabi host branch campuses of well-known global universities, instruction is in English, and the student body is truly international.
For CIS students, the UAE appeals with a mix of Western education standards, safety, convenient logistics and a dynamic job market in business, IT and finance.
## Advantages of studying in the UAE {#c2}
- Branch campuses of Western universities awarding their degrees.
- Instruction entirely in English.
- An international environment and links to regional business.
- Safety and a high quality of life.
- Convenient logistics and direct flights from the CIS.
## Cost & accommodation {#c3}
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) - Dubai
Tuition in the UAE is comparable to Western universities, but students study in a modern international hub with strong employer links. Accommodation and costs depend on the city (Dubai is pricier).
During a consultation we'll share the current amounts for the specific program and help you plan a budget.
## The way in {#c4}
International students are admitted on the basis of their diploma and an English certificate (IELTS/TOEFL). Some programs offer a Foundation year.
We'll help you choose a university, gather documents and arrange a UAE student visa.
How admission works:
1. Pick a campus. The Emirates host 30+ branch campuses of US, UK and French universities plus strong local schools. A branch diploma is identical to the home campus one.
2. Requirements. A school certificate and IELTS 5.5-6.5; some programs add internal tests or an interview.
3. Intakes. The main one is September; most universities also run a January window.
4. Student visa. The university acts as sponsor: the paperwork costs about 5,000-6,500 AED, the visa is issued for a year with renewals - top students can get up to five years. On arrival: medical check and Emirates ID.
5. Part-time work. Students may legally work up to 4 hours a day - a rare perk for the region.
6. Housing. Campus residences or rentals; housing is the main budget line in Dubai.
## After 11th grade: direct entry
An 11-year school certificate is accepted directly - school grades and IELTS 5.5-6.5 are all it takes. No foundation years, no entrance marathons: application, documents, sometimes an interview. That makes the Emirates one of the fastest ways to a Western degree without moving to the US or UK. Comparisons - in our [guide](https://www.studyu.org/en/blog-where-is-it-easiest-to-study-abroad).
## Master's degrees in the UAE
Branch-campus master's programs run on their home universities' standards: a bachelor's diploma is accepted directly, teaching is in English, and business programs may ask for GMAT. The bonus is Dubai itself as a job market: internships and international employers sit next to campus, not in another country.
## What studying in the UAE costs
| Expense | Budget for |
| --- | --- |
| Tuition | $7,000-20,000 / year (technical programs cost more) |
| Student visa | 5,000-6,500 AED (about $1,400-1,800) |
| Housing in Dubai | the main expense - from $800-1,000 / month; campus residences cost less |
| Part-time work | up to 4 hours a day, legally |
The UAE doesn't win on price - it wins on the combination: a Western diploma, an English-speaking environment, safety, and a job market next door, without the visa lotteries of the US and UK.
## FAQ {#c-faq}
### Can I earn a Western degree in the UAE?
Yes. Dubai hosts branch campuses of Western universities that award their own degrees (for example, the University of Wollongong).
### What language is instruction in in the UAE?
In English - the standard for international programs in the UAE.
### Is it safe to study in the UAE?
The UAE is one of the safest countries in the region, with a high quality of life and excellent infrastructure.
### Is IELTS required?
For most programs, yes. We'll give exact requirements for your university.
### Can I apply to the UAE right after high school?
Yes, an 11-year school certificate is accepted directly. You need school grades and IELTS 5.5-6.5; some programs run an interview or internal test.
### How much does studying in the Emirates cost?
On average $7,000-20,000 a year, with technical majors above humanities. The visa costs about 5,000-6,500 AED; Dubai housing starts at $800-1,000 a month.
### Can I work while studying in the UAE?
Yes, students may work up to 4 hours a day legally - a real help with living costs.
### What do Western branch campuses in the UAE offer?
A diploma identical to the US, UK or French home campus, with simpler admission, a safe environment and Dubai's job market within walking distance.
Focused on Dubai? See our detailed guide to branch campuses, the student visa and budgets: [Studying in Dubai for international students](https://www.studyu.org/en/blog-study-in-dubai-for-international-students).
Thinking about studying in the UAE?
We'll tell you about the options, universities and costs - free, no obligation.
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## Universities in the UAE we help you get into
Each comes with a full guide - faculties, prices and requirements. The list will keep growing.
### University of Europe for Applied Sciences (Dubai)
### University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
## Get a free consultation
Talk to a real consultant - we'll explain admission in the UAE and match a program to you.
- Program selection and admission preparation
- Help with scholarships and university discounts
- Documents, translations and student visa
- A personal consultant from the first message to enrollment
Write to us
Leave a request - and we'll get in touch.
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