Study in UAE for Nepali Students 2025

The UAE education system is built to match international standards while supporting regional goals. It is structured to offer flexibility, career relevance, and modern learning environments.

Most Nepali students pursue degrees from licensed UAE universities that follow American, British, or Australian curriculum models. Degrees here are divided into:

Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in the UAE typically last 3–4 years and 1–2 years, respectively.

Doctoral programmes are research-intensive and vary in length.

Many institutions also offer foundation years or pathway programmes for those who need extra preparation before starting a full degree.

Planning ahead is key when you want to study in the UAE. Universities in the UAE generally offer three major admission intakes every year.

Fall Intake (September/October)

• Application period: October to May
• Deadlines: Most universities close applications by May or June
• Course start: September or October
• Benefits: Wider choice of courses, more scholarship opportunities, aligns best with the full academic year.

Spring Intake (January/February)

• Application period: August to November
• Deadlines: Usually by late November or early December
• Course start: January or February
• Benefits: Ideal for students who missed the fall intake, the shorter gap between application and enrollment, smaller class sizes

Summer Intake (May/June)

• Application period: January to April
• Deadlines: Typically mid-May
• Course start: May or June
• Benefits: Great for short-term or bridging programmes, relaxed campus environment, and easier accommodation availability

If you are eyeing that seat at a UAE university, it is best to start preparing 8–10 months in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Always cross-check dates with the university’s official admissions page for updated intake timelines.

The UAE hosts several top-ranked institutions that warmly welcome Nepali students. Below is a snapshot of leading universities, their QS rankings, flagship programmes, and tuition fees:

Source: The tuition fee has been sourced from the official university websites . Candidates should note that there is an additional 5% VAT that would be added over and above the said fee. Nepali students looking to study in UAE should get in touch with our counsellors to navigate the application process.

Looking for the right course? The UAE offers diverse and in-demand programmes across its universities. And yes, many of these align well with global industry needs. Here are some popular courses Nepali students choose:

Undergraduate (UG) Courses

• BSc in Engineering
• BBA (Business Administration)
• BA in Media and Communication
• Bachelor's in Computer Science

Postgraduate (PG) Courses

• MBA
• MSc in Artificial Intelligence
• MSc in Public Health
• Master of Architecture

These courses often lead to careers in finance, healthcare, technology, media, and public service in the UAE and internationally.

For Nepali students aiming to study in UAE universities, understanding the admission requirements is crucial. While specific criteria can vary between institutions, here's a general overview:

• Academic Qualifications: A recognised high school diploma for undergraduate programmes; a bachelor's degree for postgraduate studies.
• English Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS Academic or TOEFL. For instance, Khalifa University requires an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 bands or a TOEFL score of 91 for master's programmes.
• Standardised Tests: Some programmes may require tests like the GRE.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal statement outlining academic interests and goals.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR): Typically two, from academic or professional references.

For Nepali students aspiring to study in the UAE, understanding the admission process is crucial. While specific procedures may vary among institutions, the general steps are as follows:

• Research Programmes and Eligibility Requirements: Identify suitable programmes and confirm you meet admission criteria.
• Register Online: Create an account on the university's admissions portal.
• Complete Online Application Form: Fill in all required fields accurately.
• Upload Required Documents: Submit academic transcripts, English proficiency results, passport copy, and photos.
• Pay Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable application fee.
• Track Application Status: Monitor your application through the university portal.
• Attend Interviews/Tests: Participate in any required assessments.
• Accept Admission Offer: Confirm enrollment if accepted.
• Apply for Student Visa: Complete visa procedures through the university's international student office.

Preparing the necessary documentation is a critical step in the application process. While requirements may differ among universities, commonly requested documents include:

• Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS Academic or TOEFL scores)
• A valid passport copy
• Passport-size photographs
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• Equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education (for degrees obtained outside the UAE)

These eligibility criteria, application process and documentation to study and apply in UAE would further vary with programme and university requirements.

For Nepali students considering higher education in the UAE, the cost of study varies significantly by program level, university, and emirate.

• Undergraduate (UG) studies: Annual tuition fees can range from approximately AED 30,000 to AED 70,000 (roughly NPR 10.8 to 25.2 lakhs) at many institutions, though some prominent universities and specialized programs may charge upwards of AED 100,000 (around NPR 36 lakhs) or more per year.
• Postgraduate (PG) studies: Master's degree tuition typically falls between AED 50,000 and AED 90,000 annually (approximately NPR 18 to 32.4 lakhs). However, specialized master's programs, such as MBAs, can be more expensive, sometimes exceeding AED 130,000 (around NPR 46.8 lakhs) for the entire program or per year.
• Doctoral (PhD) studies: PhD program costs can range from AED 62,000 to over AED 280,000 per year (roughly NPR 22.3 lakhs to over NPR 100.8 lakhs), or be presented as a total programme cost which can vary widely. Some institutions offer scholarships that might include full tuition coverage and stipends.

Living in the UAE offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural experiences. For Nepali students, understanding monthly expenses is crucial for budgeting. On average, students can expect to spend between AED 3,000 and AED 6,500 per month, excluding tuition fees. Here’s a monthly expense breakdown for the same:

Source: The information has been taken from credible official websites.

By opting for shared accommodations and utilising public transport, students can manage their expenses effectively.

Financing education in the UAE can be supported through various scholarships and financial aid options available to Nepali students:

• Khalifa University International Graduate Student Scholarship: Offers full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and annual airfare.
• Abu Dhabi University Scholarships: Includes merit-based graduate scholarships, alumni scholarships, athletic scholarships, academic scholarships, and the H.H. Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Scholarship, which provides 100% waived fees on tuition and other services.
• United Arab Emirates University Scholarships: Offers scholarships for international students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programmes, with opportunities for full or partial tuition coverage.
• Dubai Government Scholarships: Government-supported universities in Dubai often offer scholarships to selected international students, covering various aspects of education expenses.
• American University of Sharjah Financial Grants: Provides need-based financial grants and merit scholarships for international students with outstanding academic achievements.

It is advisable to start searching for suitable scholarships and apply for the ones you qualify for well within the deadlines to increase your chances of receiving the awards.

Securing a student visa is a pivotal step for Nepali students aiming to study in the UAE. The process involves several stages:

• Obtain Admission: Secure an offer letter from a recognised UAE educational institution.
• Prepare Required Documents: Gather necessary documents, including passport copies, photographs, and academic transcripts.
• Entry Permit Issuance: The university applies for an entry permit on behalf of the student.
• Medical Examination: Undergo a mandatory medical test upon arrival in the UAE.
• Emirates ID Application: Apply for an Emirates ID, which is essential for residency.
• Health Insurance: Obtain valid health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay.
• Visa Stamping: The student visa is stamped on the passport, finalising the residency process.

Thinking ahead? The UAE offers growing opportunities for international graduates, especially in sectors aligned with its national goals. Average annual salaries vary by industry and experience level. For instance, entry-level positions in IT may offer around AED 152,000 per year. Popular job fields for graduates include:

Source: The information has been taken from credible official websites.
After graduation, students can seek employment. Once a job offer is secured, the employer typically sponsors the work permit and residency visa. The UAE also offers longer-term residency options like the Green Visa for skilled professionals, which graduates might become eligible for based on their qualifications and employment. Choosing to study in the UAE is more than just picking a degree. It is about stepping into an education system that values innovation, culture, and career-building. So if you are ready, this could be the right time to move. And yes, you do not have to figure it all out alone.

How Can Nepali Students Study in the UAE?

AECC makes the process of studying abroad easier and more personalised. If you plan to study in the UAE, AECC helps with everything from selecting the right university to handling your UAE visa application. Their support includes career counselling, document prep, interview tips, and pre-departure guidance tailored for Nepali students.

At AECC, we have guided countless Nepali students through their journey to studying in the UAE. Our education counsellors understand the excitement and challenges of international education and are here to support your ambitions.

Have questions about university applications, visa requirements, or scholarship opportunities? Contact us for a free consultation with our UAE education specialists. Let's turn your educational aspirations into achievable plans.