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Khalifa University

Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi · Public University · Est. 2007

QS World #230 Admissions open
Type
Public University
Founded
2007
Students
6,000
International
2,000

Khalifa: the applicant's brief

6 findings
  1. The short answer

    Khalifa University is a public research university in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and it suits students who want science, engineering, or medicine in a research-focused setting. It also has a sizeable international student community, which can make it a practical choice for applicants moving from abroad.

  2. What you can study

    Khalifa University comprises three colleges, three research institutes, and 20 research centers. Its academic focus covers science, engineering, and medicine, so applicants should expect a STEM- and health-oriented university rather than a broad all-subject institution.

  3. Getting in

    International applicants should apply through the university’s official admissions process and check the entry requirements for their chosen programme on the website. Because programme-specific requirements, deadlines, and document lists can change, confirm the current application steps, language requirements, and any visa-related guidance with admissions before applying.

  4. What it costs

    Tuition is published at AED 47,000 to AED 63,500. The university does not publish a separate international fee in the information available here, so confirm the current rate and any additional charges with the admissions office; living costs in Abu Dhabi will be extra.

  5. Coming from abroad

    The university has 2,000 international students, but the language of instruction is not stated publicly in the information available here. Before applying, check the teaching language, visa steps, document attestation requirements, health insurance expectations, and whether your programme has any country-specific entry rules.

  6. How it compares

    Among the 37 universities in the United Arab Emirates, Khalifa University stands out as a public research university with a clear focus on science, engineering, and medicine. Its size, international student presence, and research structure make it a different choice from smaller or less specialised institutions in the country.

Written from this university's catalogue entry and its cited encyclopedia summary. Figures are only shown where the institution or a cited source publishes them — always confirm fees and entry requirements with the university itself before applying.

Questions about Khalifa

Where is Khalifa University located?

It is in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

What type of university is it?

It is a public university.

What subjects does it cover?

It covers science, engineering, and medicine.

What is the tuition range?

The tuition range is AED 47,000 to AED 63,500.

Overview

Khalifa University is a public research university located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It was established in its current form in February 2017 by decree of UAE President Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, through the merger of three institutions: Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (KUSTAR), the Petroleum Institute, and the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology. The university comprises three colleges, three research institutes, and 20 research centers covering science, engineering, and medicine.

Ranking figures are indicative and provided for general guidance — always verify current positions with the official QS rankings and the university.

Programs at Khalifa

6 programs across 5 study levels.

Bachelor's Degree

Bachelor's Degree Science

BSc Programs

Khalifa University

🎓 Full Time

Professional

Master's Degree

Master's Degree Science

MSc Programs

Khalifa University

🎓 Full Time

PhD / Doctorate

PhD / Doctorate

PhD Programs

Khalifa University

🎓 Full Time

Foundation

Tuition fees & costs

Indicative annual tuition

AED 47,000 – AED 63,500/yr

Premium tuition

Indicative living cost

Fees vary by programme and are indicative. Confirm exact fees with the university before applying.

Admission requirements

Recognised high-school qualification for undergraduate entry; a relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduate entry.

English: IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT 90 (varies by programme).

How to apply

  1. 1Check the entry requirements and intake dates for your chosen programme on the official university website.
  2. 2Confirm you meet the entry requirements: Recognised high-school qualification for undergraduate entry; a relevant bachelor’s degree for postgraduate entry..
  3. 3Apply directly through the university admission portal, or via its official application platform.
  4. 4Submit your transcripts and English-proficiency scores (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test) and pay the application fee.
  5. 5On receiving your offer letter, accept it and begin your student-visa process for United Arab Emirates.

Scholarships at Khalifa

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Last updated 29 Aug 2026. Information is provided for guidance — verify with official sources before applying.

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