Thank you for your interest in studying abroad at Khalifa University. Our capital Abu Dhabi is a great place to experience the rich Arabic culture and be exposed to the robust research and development activities at the University in fields like oil and gas, renewable energy, robotics, ICT, healthcare and more.

WHY STUDY ABROAD AT KU?
Academics

Khalifa University offers some of the highest quality engineering programs in the region, and its accreditation by ABET is a clear evidence of that. In addition to strong academics, KU students are exposed to various trips and events throughout the year which enhance their academic experience. Such events include: site visits to power plants, participation in regional workshops and design exhibitions.

Study-Life Balance

Balance is important in life, and so at KU we make sure that students are provided with various activities that ensure that balance. From athletic tournaments to recreational field trips, students have many options to choose to rest the mind and activate the body! In addition to what KU offers, Abu Dhabi is a cultural hub and a popular destination for many tourists coming from around the world.

  • Eligibility
  • Application Process
Eligibility
  • Be a full time student at a Partner University. Check with your university’s Education Abroad/ External Relations Office to confirm partnership.**
  • Sophomore standing at time of application
  • GPA of 3.0 or above

** If you are not attending a partner university you can still apply but will pay tuition fees in addition to living expenses.

Application Process
  • Contact the international student office at your home institution and verify that KU is an exchange partner. Once it’s confirmed, a nomination shall be sent to KU.
  • Fill out and submit the online application form along with attaching all required documents including:
    • Current transcript with grade demonstrating the equivalent of a 3.0/4.0 GPA grade scale.
    • Passport copy of photo and signature pages
    • Passport size photo- see photo instructions
    • English proficiency requirements for non-native speakers, if they have studied in the US for less than a year: TOEFL iBT 79 or Academic IELTS 6.0
    • Proof of financial support
    • ID Form (PDF Doc)
    • Health History Form

After submitting the application, be on the lookout for any emails from KU as we might require additional information/documents. Please note that since we are sponsored by a government entity, all application decisions are made outside of KU. All applicants are advised to apply early and have alternatives in mind in case of an unsuccessful application.

 

Photo Instructions

  • – JPG Format
  • – Size: 51 x 51 mm
  • – Resolution of 300 pixels per inch
  • – White background
Application Deadlines

  • – For Fall Semester: May 1
  • – For Spring Semester: November 1
I've been Accepted. What's Next?

Once you’re notified that you’ve been accepted, sign the received contract and email it back to us as soon as possible so we can begin your visa process.

You must arrive at KU a week before classes begin to attend an orientation which will include information about the necessary medical tests you need to take in order to receive a residency permit and national ID card. In the case of any issues with your medical results, you will be asked to return to your home country. For more information, please ask us directly.

Life In Abu Dhabi

The UAE is currently one of the safest countries for travelers wishing to visit or live in the Middle East.

Life is very convenient and enjoyable in Abu Dhabi, one of the fastest growing cities in the world. You can enjoy warm, sunny weather all year long in Abu Dhabi, which has also been names as the world’s safest city for the fifth year in a row in Numbeo’s Quality of Life index.

While Arabic is the official language of the UAE, English is used in all communications and aspects of life due to the high expat population.

Khalifa University is a multi-campus, urban university, located across two campuses in the UAE’s capital, making the entire city your campus. 

Khalifa University’s two campuses include dozens of canteens, restaurants and coffee shops, providing the KU community with an array of different cuisines. Each campus is also well equipped with facilities, including sports fields and state-of-the-art gymnasiums and swimming pools.

For more information about life in Abu Dhabi, please click click here.