Khalifa University campus
Khalifa University logo

Khalifa

University

Country :

UAE

Founded :

2017

Address :

Hadbat Al Zaafran, Abu Dhabi

Khalifa University Overview

As a nationally leading university, Khalifa University stands as a flagship institution in the United Arab Emirates. Located in the vibrant capital city of Abu Dhabi, the university operates through two campuses, driving the UAE’s transition towards a sustainable, knowledge-based economy through world-class education and cutting-edge technology and research facilities. Over 4,000 students from more than 70 countries have enrolled in the university to study in UAE for an excellent and comprehensive academic experience.

While it was officially established in 2017 through the strategic merger of three different institutions – Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research; Masdar Institute of Science and Technology; and the Petroleum Institute – the origins of Khalifa University can be traced back to 1989, when a telecommunications company founded the Etisalat University College. With a decree from the UAE’s President Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it was established in its current form, drawing a large number of study abroad students.

It is ranked 147th in QS World University Rankings 2027, 201-250 in Times Higher Education’s “World University Rankings 2026”, and 340th in Best Global Universities by US News & World Report. The QS ranked the university’s engineering (petroleum) subject 6th globally. Khalifa University offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes through three colleges: the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences.

Top Courses at Khalifa University

Khalifa University courses offer a wide range of opportunities to utilise the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, laboratories, industry partners, and accredited curricula. Some of the in-demand courses include engineering, robotics, artificial intelligence, aerospace, and biomedical engineering.

BSc in Mechanical Engineering

Duration
48 Months
Fee / Year
AED 81,250

BSc in Computer Engineering

Duration
48 Months
Fee / Year
AED 81,250

BSc in Biomedical Engineering

Duration
48 Months
Fee / Year
AED 80,625

BSc in Chemical Engineering

Duration
48 Months
Fee / Year
AED 81,250

BSc in Civil Engineering

Duration
48 Months
Fee / Year
AED 81,250
Students studying together

Khalifa University Admission Process

Completing the Khalifa University admission process will require prospective students to submit the application on the official university website with required documents, clear the standardised entrance requirements, attend and clear an interview, and secure an admission offer to apply for a student visa.
Step 1
Counselling Session

Counselling Session

Attend a brief counselling session with one of the counsellors in our team to discuss eligibility, qualifications, cost breakdown and career and academic objectives.
Step 2
Application Submission

Application Submission

Gather information and organise the set of required documents for your chosen academic program. Submit all the required documents with the filled application at the university’s official portal for admissions;
Step 3
Clear Requirements

Clear Requirements

Shortlisted candidates will have to submit the scores for the relevant standardised test scores, such as the EmSAT, SAR, GRE or MCAT, depending on the degree level and requirements.
Step 4
Clear the Interview

Clear the Interview

Candidates must undergo and clear the virtual interview with the faculty members of the chosen academic programme, which evaluates their capabilities, skills, and personality.
Step 5
Pay Required Fees

Pay Required Fees

Receive the official admission offer from the university, formally accept the offer and pay the required tuition fees to successfully secure your spot in the chosen academic programme.
Step 6
Visa and Travel

Visa and Travel

Obtain a valid student visa by submitting the required documents and then waiting for a few business days. Pack your bags, book accommodation and arrive at the university on time.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Khalifa University ROI shows a gradual gain for all graduates who secure prestigious roles in demanding sectors, including engineering, energy, robotics, healthcare, technology, and others. The students will benefit from the university’s strong industry connections, corporate ties, high employability rates, and lucrative compensation packages across the region.

Field of WorkJob TitleAverage Salary - per year, approx.
EngineerMechanical EngineerAED 120,000 - AED 240,000
Technology/ITSoftware EngineerAED130,000 - AED 260,000
CybersecurityInformation Security AnalystAED 140,000 - AED 270,000
Chemical & EnergyProcess/Petroleum EngineerAED 150,000 - AED 300,000
HealthcareMedical Specialist/ResearcherAED 180,000 - AED 360,000
Civil EngineeringStructural EngineerAED 110,000 - AED 220,000
Data & AnalyticsData ScientistAED 135,000 - AED 250,000
AerospaceAerospace Systems EngineerAED 145,000 - AED 280,000
BiomedicalBiomedical Device SpecialistAED 125,000 - AED 230,000
EnvironmentSustainability ConsultantAED 115,000 - AED 210,000

The represented figures are based on the graduate outcomes, industry standards, and prevailing market conditions. These are subject to change depending on the designation, location, level of experience, and the particular organisation for which someone is working.

Scholarship at the Khalifa University

Khalifa University scholarships can be immensely helpful to all those students who are from a marginalised community background, having constrained budgets. Regardless of the financial situation, the university offers full-tuition scholarships for academically exceptional students purely based on merit.

Scholarships

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships
  • Active Student Scholarship
  • Master’s Scholarships for International Students
  • PhD Scholarships for International Students
Scholarships
  • International Undergraduate Scholarships
  • Active Student Scholarship
  • Master’s Scholarships for International Students
  • PhD Scholarships for International Students

Requirements

  • Outstanding academic records (high CGPA or equivalent)
  • Standardised test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, SAT, GRE, etc.)
  • Compelling personal statement and letters of recommendation
  • Applying for a particular scholarship before the specified deadline
Requirements
  • Outstanding academic records (high CGPA or equivalent)
  • Standardised test scores (IELTS/TOEFL, SAT, GRE, etc.)
  • Compelling personal statement and letters of recommendation
  • Applying for a particular scholarship before the specified deadline

Campus Locator

Khalifa University operates across two campuses in Abu Dhabi, including the main campus at Hadbat Al Zaafran and another campus in Sas Al Nakhl. Use the live map feature to find the exact location of the university.

Frequently asked Questions

Yes, Khalifa University offers full-tuition scholarships, such as the International Undergraduate Scholarship, Master’s Scholarship, and Active Student Scholarship. Currently, the university also offers 100% tuition-fee assistance for students enrolled in its new medicine programme (Doctor of Medicine) based on the submitted academic transcript.

Yes, international students need to provide proof of English proficiency through the IELTS scores (minimum 6.0 for undergraduate and 6.5 for postgraduate) or an equivalent TOEFL score (unless exempted under special circumstances and specified by the university).

Approximately 4,000 students are currently enrolled across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes at Khalifa University.

Yes, Khalifa University welcomes students from over 70 countries across all its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Admissions are totally merit-based.

Khalifa University maintains a high placement rate of approximately 94%, with students finding suitable career opportunities across energy, aerospace, technology, and healthcare shortly after graduation or transitioning to further education.

The UAE is better for students who want international exposure, tax-free career opportunities, and world-class modern infrastructure and facilities with strong regional industry connections. On the other hand, India is an affordable option for all Indian students with a sense of comfort.

Khalifa University is consistently ranked as the top university, with rare exceptions of securing the second ranking, in the United Arab Emirates. The Center for World University Rankings shows the university having the 1st national ranking. According to Shanghai Rankings, 18 subjects of the university ranked in the 2025 subject rankings globally, showing electrical and electronic engineering at the top with the 50th position, followed by telecommunications, robotic science & engineering, and chemical engineering.

Khalifa University tuition fees for undergraduate programmes average around AED 81,250 per year, while postgraduate programmes average around AED 15,000 per year, depending on the specific programme and credits.

Admission to Khalifa University is competitive due to the high academic standards. Applicants need strong academic credentials to enrol, especially in science and mathematics courses; show standardised test scores (SAT/GRE); and have English language proficiency.

Yes, Khalifa University is good for all Indian students, as it offers high-quality English-taught STEM programmes, utilising state-of-the-art research facilities, providing merit-based scholarships, and having strong industry partnerships for job opportunities. It is consistently ranked as the UAE’s number one university, making it one of the most attractive destinations for Indian students to pursue their higher education closer to home.

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