Khalifa University Scholarship 2026: A Fully Funded Master’s Opportunity for Indian Students

For many Indian students, the idea of studying abroad often comes with two immediate thoughts. World-class education sounds great. The cost sounds terrifying.

This is exactly where the Khalifa University Scholarship 2026 quietly becomes a game changer. The Khalifa University Scholarship is a merit-based funding program offered to outstanding international students applying for Master’s and PhD programs.

If you are aiming for a fully funded Master’s in a global research-focused university, and you are open to studying in the Middle East, Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi deserves your full attention.

Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Why Khalifa University Should Be on Your Radar

Khalifa University of Science and Technology is one of the UAE’s top research-driven institutions. It focuses heavily on engineering, technology, science, innovation, and advanced research that aligns with national and global priorities.

You study in Abu Dhabi, one of the safest and most globally connected cities in the world, while earning a degree that carries serious international weight. 

Official link

Level of Study and Program Duration

The scholarship is available for:

• Master’s programs
  • Full-time: 2 years
  • Part-time: 3 years
• PhD programs
  • Duration varies based on research structure and progress

What Does “Fully Funded” Actually Mean Here?

Depending on the scholarship category awarded, benefits may include:

• Full or partial tuition fee coverage
• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
• Free accommodation or housing support
• Medical insurance
• Textbooks
• Visa processing support
• Travel assistance to and from the UAE for students residing abroad
• Support for attending international conferences, subject to funding
• International research internships, subject to funding
• Teaching experience and structured career development opportunities

Who Can Apply? Admission Requirements Explained Simply

For Master’s Applicants

You must have:

• A relevant Bachelor’s degree
• Minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.0, or equivalent
• English language proficiency through:
  • IELTS overall score of 6.5, or
  • TOEFL iBT score of 91 (test center only, home edition not accepted)
• At least two referee recommendations
• A Statement of Purpose between 500 and 1,000 words
• Willingness to attend an admission interview

English Test Exemptions

You may be eligible for an exemption if:

• You are a native English speaker from approved countries, or
• You graduated from an English-medium institution and can prove earlier IELTS or TOEFL scores meeting minimum requirements

Documents You Will Need to Apply

• Certified Bachelor’s or Master’s degree certificates
• Official academic transcripts with grading scale
• English language test scores
• GRE score report
• Detailed CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Passport copy and passport-style photograph
• UAE visa copy if you are already residing in the UAE
• Research Statement for PhD applicants
• UAE equivalency certificate for degrees completed outside the UAE

The application fee is 200 AED, inclusive of VAT.

Scholarship Deadlines You Cannot Miss

For the Fall Semester 2026, the deadline is March 2, 2026.
For the Spring Semester 2027, the deadline is September 15, 2026.

Your preparation should ideally begin several months in advance if Fall 2026 is your goal, particularly for tests, paperwork, and equivalency approvals.

Final Thoughts: Is This Scholarship Worth It?

Absolutely.

The Khalifa University Scholarship provides what many students look for but seldom find: meaningful financial support, excellent research exposure, and a top-notch education, all in one location.

Khalifa University is a wise and calculated decision if you are serious about getting a Master's or PhD and want a funded option outside of the typical UK, US, or Australia route.

Start early, be well-prepared, and approach this application as if it were a real opportunity.

Consult a Leap Scholar expert for assistance with creating your Statement of Purpose, understanding scholarship strategy, or shortlisting programs.