The United Arab Emirates has become one of the most attractive study destinations in the Arab world, offering high-quality education through global universities based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
Many international and national students look for scholarships that do not require proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL, and several universities in the UAE now provide this opportunity.
Below is a detailed list of the top 10 scholarships in the UAE where students can apply without presenting English language test scores.
Khalifa University offers fully funded scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering, science, and technology fields. Students who have completed previous education in English are exempted from submitting test scores. The scholarship includes full tuition coverage, health insurance, accommodation, and monthly stipends.
Key Benefits:
UAEU provides diverse scholarships for international and Emirati students in fields such as business, education, and health sciences. Applicants who studied in English medium schools are usually exempt from language certificates.
Scholarship Features:
AUD offers scholarships for high-achieving students and allows language test exemption for students from English-medium institutions or countries where English is the primary academic language. Scholarships cover from 25% to 100% of tuition fees depending on academic merit.
Highlights:
MBZUAI grants fully funded scholarships for master’s and PhD programs in artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine learning. Students with an academic background in English are often exempted from language tests.
Scholarship Coverage:
The University of Sharjah provides scholarships for both Emirati and international students. Applicants whose previous studies were conducted in English are not required to provide IELTS or TOEFL certificates.
Benefits:
AUS offers a variety of scholarships, including merit-based, athletic, and financial need grants. Students from English-language educational backgrounds may request a waiver for English proficiency proof.
Scholarship Perks:
Zayed University provides a range of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships, and students with English-language schooling may be approved without official test certificates. The university focuses on leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Scholarship Package:
Canadian University Dubai offers partial and full scholarships to high-achieving students across various disciplines. Students who have completed their secondary education in English are eligible for exemption from language proof.
Scholarship Features:
Middlesex University Dubai, a branch of the UK-based Middlesex University, provides scholarships without strict English proficiency requirements for students from English-medium backgrounds. The scholarships serve to promote global student diversity.
Key Points:
Abu Dhabi University offers several scholarship types including merit, athletic, and family tuition awards. Those who have studied in English-medium institutions can apply without language tests.
Scholarship Benefits:
Many UAE universities accept other forms of English proof besides IELTS or TOEFL. Examples include:
Applicants should prepare a strong application file including:
Choosing the UAE as a study destination offers numerous advantages beyond scholarships. The country combines academic excellence, cultural diversity, and economic opportunity.
Major Advantages:
Furthermore, the UAE’s strategic location connects students to both the East and West, offering unique professional and cultural opportunities after graduation.
Studying in the UAE without needing an English proficiency test is a great opportunity for international students who already studied in English or wish to pursue higher education in a global environment. From fully funded postgraduate programs at Khalifa University and MBZUAI to partial scholarships at AUD and Canadian University Dubai, the UAE continues to support talented students from diverse backgrounds.
With proper preparation, careful selection, and timely applications, students can secure generous funding and begin an enriching academic journey in the heart of the Middle East.