Educads

Study Abroad for international students

Everything you need to plan your studies abroad — from choosing a university to visas, scholarships and settling in.

Choosing the right university

Start by shortlisting programmes — not just universities — by subject, ranking, co-op options and budget. your destination country offers large research universities (strong in research and breadth), focused undergraduate universities (small classes, teaching-first) and polytechnics (applied, career-ready, hands-on). Use our directory and comparison tool to weigh them side by side.

English (and French) requirements

Most programmes are taught in English; French-language study is common in Québec. You will usually need to prove proficiency with IELTS (often 6.0–6.5), TOEFL iBT (about 79–90) or the Duolingo English Test — check the exact minimums, including per-section scores, for each programme.

Study permit & arrival

You will need a student visa from the immigration authority after you accept an offer from a recognised institution. Read our full student visa & the immigration authority guide, and budget carefully using our tuition and cost of living guides.

Funding your studies

Many awards are open to international students — from national scholarships like the Vanier and Mastercard Foundation programmes to university entrance awards. Browse our scholarship listings and apply early.

Work & staying after graduation

Eligible students can work part-time while studying, and graduates of eligible programmes may qualify for a post-study work visa — international work experience that can support a later permanent-residence application.

Top universities for international students

AU American University of Sharjah logo

American University of Sharjah

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates · Private University

★ 55 QS World #383 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
AED 68,500 – AED 93,000/yr
Founded
1997
UO University of Sharjah logo

University of Sharjah

Sharjah, United Arab Emirates · Public University

★ 48 QS World #601 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
AED 43,500 – AED 59,000/yr
Founded
1997
UA United Arab Emirates University logo

United Arab Emirates University

Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates · Public University

★ 59 QS World #290 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
AED 37,500 – AED 50,500/yr
Founded
1976
KH Khalifa University logo

Khalifa University

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates · Public University

★ 65 QS World #230 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
AED 47,000 – AED 63,500/yr
Founded
2007
ZA Zayed University logo

Zayed University

Dubai, United Arab Emirates · Public University

★ 40 QS World #754 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
AED 40,500 – AED 55,000/yr
Founded
1998

Scholarships for international students

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