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Discover the wealth of educational opportunities in Dubai, renowned for its globally acclaimed institutions and promising career prospects. Surprisingly, studying in Dubai proves to be more cost-effective than many other international destinations. Don’t miss out on this chance to shine in a pool of applicants.

If you’re a student aiming to pursue education in Dubai, it’s crucial to be well-informed about the student visa application process. Arm yourself with the necessary knowledge to make your journey towards studying in Dubai smooth and successful.

Annual Intakes in the UAE

In Dubai, prospective undergraduate students can apply for admission during the periods of April/May, July/August, and December/January. Postgraduate courses admit new students in July/August and December/January.

Alternatively, some universities in Dubai offer admissions year-round, encompassing the fall, spring, and summer seasons. Notably, the fall season tends to witness a higher influx of international applicants.

Top Universities in Dubai

  • American University of Dubai
  • S.P. Jain University
  • Manipal University Dubai
  • British University Dubai
  • The Canadian University of Dubai (CUD)
  • Strathclyde Business School, Dubai
  • The Saint-Petersburg State University of Engineering & Economics, Dubai Branch
  • The Murdoch University, Dubai
  • Manipal University, Dubai
  • Hult International Business School
  • Amity University Dubai
  • Heriot Watt University
  • London Business School
  • Cass Business School, Dubai
  • Middlesex university

Local Universities in Dubai

  • The Dubai Medical College for Girls
  • Hamdan Bin Mohammed e-University
  • Institute of Management Technology in Dubai
  • Dubai School of Government
  • The Dubai School of Dental Medicine
  • The Higher colleges of Technology
  • Biotechnology University College Dubai (BUC)
  • Zayed University
  • University of Dubai
  • Al Ghurair University
  • Khalifa University
  • University of Dubai
  • The Islamic Azad University UAE Branch

What are the Types of UAE Student Visas?

Type of Student Visa Visa Purpose UAE Student Visa Cost
Family-Sponsored Dubai Student Visa It is referred for the students who are attending an educational institution. The students are allowed to apply for the visa application as per their parent’s sponsorship. Visa Processing Fee:

AED 2300 – 2700

Refundable Visa Deposit:

AED 2500 – 3000

(The refundable amount can be returned after the completion of studies in the Universities.)

*There may be a need for AED 1300-1500 for health insurance if your proposed university needs it as a mandate.

Educator Sponsored Dubai Study Visa The visa type helps the students in receiving a UAE student Visa until the course completion. With this, the university can sponsor the students for full-time.
Short Stay Dubai Student Visa The visa type is for the students exchanging a short period of stay in the UAE. It is granted with a 60 days stay and can be renewed when required.

Eligibility Criteria for a Dubai Study Visa

Let us now discuss and understand the basic requirements while applying for a Dubai Study Visa.

 
As part of the application process, students are required to upload Letters of Recommendation (LORs), personal essays, academic transcripts, and predicted grades through the university’s official website. Additionally, a minimum IELTS score and achieving a grade range of 65% to 70% in the 12th standard are mandatory for admission.
To secure admission, applicants must have attained a minimum of 55% in their bachelor’s degree. Additionally, a TOEFL/IELTS score of 6.5 is a prerequisite. Alongside these requirements, students are obliged to furnish Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and personal essays to the universities of their choice.

Many business schools prioritize applicants with 2-3 years of professional experience for admission consideration. As part of the application process, students are expected to provide personal essays, Letters of Recommendation (LORs), and academic transcripts. Successful candidates among the applicants will be invited to participate in an interview as part of the selection process.

Documentation for a Dubai Study Visa Application

To facilitate the visa application process, applicants are required to provide the following documentation:

  1. Four photocopies of the passport.
  2. Upon the student’s arrival in the UAE, submission of three passport copies with an entry visa stamp is mandatory.
  3. An offer letter confirming acceptance into a tertiary institute in the UAE.
  4. Documentary evidence of financial capacity, typically in the form of bank statements.
  5. If opting for university-provided accommodation, a tenancy agreement is necessary.
  6. Submission of a photocopy or digital version of the tuition fee receipt for the selected program in the current academic year.
  7. Copy of the visa fee payment for the intended course of study in the current academic year.
  8. Attestation of the undergraduate degree for students applying for post-graduate programs.
  9. Medical test results conducted at an authorized medical center in the UAE.

Application Process for a Dubai Study Visa

Embarking on the journey to secure a Dubai Student Visa involves the following 8 key steps:

  1. Destination Decision: Make Dubai your chosen destination for higher education.
  2. Course and Institution Confirmation: Settle on your preferred course and the institution in Dubai.
  3. Visa and Entry Criteria Review: Thoroughly understand the visa and entry requirements pertinent to your educational pursuit.
  4. Course Application Submission: Apply for the course that aligns with your academic aspirations.
  5. I-20 and Offer Letter Acquisition: Procure the I-20 form and Offer Letter issued by the UAE University.
  6. Document Compilation: Compile all necessary documents according to the provided checklist for your visa application.
  7. Application Submission: Present your visa application, along with the requisite fees in cash, at the Dubai Visa application center.
  8. Visa Collection and Relocation: Upon visa approval, retrieve the visa copy from the application center, marking the final step before making your move to Dubai for your academic journey.

Related FAQs

What are the pathways to apply for a Student Visa for UAE?

When seeking a student permit in Dubai, there are two distinct avenues available for application:

  1. Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA):
    • Primarily an online application process.
    • Streamlined and digitalized for efficient submissions.
  2. General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA):
    • Allows for both online and offline application submissions.
    • Offers flexibility in the application process to accommodate various preferences.
    • Provides applicants with the option to choose between digital or physical submission methods.
Can a student do a part-time job in Dubai?

The Dubai Development Authority (DDA) extends a unique chance for students to enroll in any of the 23 academic institutions situated in Dubai’s creative clusters and the region’s free zones. Remarkably, these 23 institutions constitute half of the total number of branch campuses available. This initiative allows students the flexibility to engage in part-time employment, providing them with an invaluable opportunity to acquire hands-on experience in Dubai’s thriving economy. Moreover, the recent regulatory measures implemented by the DDA ensure the legal protection of both students participating in part-time work and the employers offering these valuable opportunities.

What is the requirement for part-time jobs in Dubai with a Student Visa?

Dubai, being a cosmopolitan city, presents a diverse range of living costs for students, typically falling within the range of $1200 to $1500 USD. This sum encompasses various aspects such as accommodation, meals, entertainment, and miscellaneous expenses.

For undergraduates, the tuition fees for programs span from 37,500 to 70,000 AED. On top of this, the living expenses for undergraduate students hover around 2500 to 4000 AED.

Postgraduate studies in Dubai come with a monthly program cost ranging between 55,000 and 75,000 AED. This includes tuition fees for the academic pursuit at the advanced level.

Processing Time for a Dubai Study Visa

The student visa processing period typically spans from 2 to 5 weeks, provided that the submission of accurate and complete documents has been ensured. The procedural journey is notably seamless when all the required documentation is in order, contributing to a straightforward and efficient application process.

Why Choose Schooling Visa

Schoolingvisa Overseas Careers stands out as our consultant , and our track record speaks for itself.  We’ve successfully served our customers.

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  • Visit Visa: Whether for leisure or business, embark on global travel with schoolingvisa.
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  • Work Visa: Settle in the world’s best cities and pursue your career ambitions.
  • Immigration: Your comprehensive solution for all visa and immigration requirements.
  • Permanent Residence: Attain the status of Permanent Resident and enjoy exclusive benefits.

Tailored Services for Your Success:

  • Profile Evaluation: We analyze your unique profile history, aligning it with visa eligibility criteria, and provide guidance on the appropriate visas to pursue.
  • Resume Writing: Craft a standout resume tailored to meet the expectations of immigration authorities.
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  • Professional Guidance: From interview training to language courses and crafting impactful resumes and cover letters, we offer comprehensive support.
  • Dedicated Case Officer: Enjoy personalized assistance and a singular point of contact throughout the entire process.
  • Post-Landing Services: Our support extends beyond visa approval, helping you settle comfortably in your new country with customized post-landing services.

Experience a seamless journey for all your visa needs with Schoolingvisa – from profile evaluation and document preparation to post-visa settlement services. If you have questions about filing the AIPP application, reach out to us immediately. We are here to assist you in every possible way.

Take the first step – start your visa application today!

Other Important FAQs

What is the visa validity?

If a student remains outside the UAE for a period exceeding six months, their student residence visa loses its validity, and reentry into the UAE becomes prohibited until the visa is officially canceled. Typically, the sponsor takes the initiative to report the visa holder to immigration authorities as part of standard protocol.

Can a student work with studies in Dubai?

While pursuing education in Dubai on a student permit, it is explicitly prohibited for international students to engage in regular employment. However, a notable exception exists for those with internship offers, granted they secure prior permission from their respective universities. Certain educational institutions actively assist and facilitate students in securing internship programs, providing valuable support in navigating these opportunities.

Where is the best place to study in Dubai?

Dubai offers top-notch education programs at a reasonable cost, thanks to the government’s education-friendly policies. The educational system in Dubai is on par with international standards, making it an optimal destination to pursue your desired course of study. Undoubtedly, Dubai stands out as an ideal location for academic pursuits, combining quality education with affordability.

What happens when your student visa expires?

The UAE government has sanctioned a five-year student visa for exceptionally high-achieving students, those who have secured a remarkable 95% or more in their academic endeavors. University students aiming for this extended duration must maintain a commendable 3.75 GPA throughout their undergraduate studies. The eligibility criterion for applying for such a student visa is a minimum age of 18 years.

Conversely, for other students, a standard one-year visa is initially issued, with subsequent renewals contingent upon the submission of a university-issued certificate affirming the continuation of their studies. The renewable nature of the visa persists as long as the individual remains an active university student and has yet to conclude the educational program for which they initially enrolled.

Which courses are in demand in Dubai?

Dubai’s flourishing economy is marked by substantial infrastructural development, positioning the city as a technologically advanced and smart digital hub. The education sector mirrors this growth, aligning its focus with the city’s developmental trajectory. Within this dynamic environment, the most sought-after course is Engineering, particularly Civil Engineering, succeeded by Mechanical Engineering and Petroleum Engineering. Following closely in demand are Business Administration programs, with Marketing taking the lead, followed by Finance, Accounting, and Quality Management. In the realm of Medical Sciences, Medicine and Surgery stand out with high demand. Information Technology education is also thriving, with Networking, Information Security, and Information Systems witnessing significant demand. In diverse fields, Early Childhood Education is highly sought after, closely followed by English Teaching, reflecting the diverse educational needs in the evolving landscape of Dubai.

What is a Long-term visa for outstanding students?

The UAE government has unveiled an exclusive 5-year visa initiative tailored for students achieving excellence, categorized as “Outstanding.” To qualify for this prestigious program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Attain a remarkable 95% grade upon graduating from secondary school.
  2. Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.75 throughout their academic journey, whether within or outside the borders of the UAE.

It’s important to note that the UAE government imposes certain restrictions on male children aged 18 and above concerning sponsorship. However, these restrictions can be waived under two conditions: if the duration of study spans a minimum of one year, or if the education is pursued at a UAE institution. Notably, there are no such sponsorship restrictions imposed on females, making them eligible for sponsorship without any constraints.

 

What are the requirements for studying MBA Courses in Dubai?

Enrolling in MBA courses in Dubai comes with specific prerequisites:

  1. A prospective MBA student is typically expected to have acquired a minimum of 2-3 years of work experience, a criterion set by many reputable business schools in Dubai.
  2. Possession of a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification is deemed acceptable, provided the candidate holds a minimum academic standing of 65 percent.
  3. As part of the selection process, students are usually invited for an interview, serving as a crucial step in the final decision-making phase.
  4. To complete the application, candidates are required to submit various documents, including Letters of Recommendation (LOR), transcripts reflecting academic performance in previous classes, well-crafted essays, and predicted grades. These components collectively contribute to the comprehensive evaluation of applicants for MBA programs in Dubai.
What are the requirements for studying for a Master's in Dubai?

Admission criteria for Master’s courses in Dubai include the following:

  1. Most universities in Dubai do not mandate the submission of GRE or GMAT scores, alleviating standardized test requirements for prospective students.
  2. Attaining a minimum academic score of 55 percent is typically a prerequisite for securing admission to renowned universities in the region.
  3. Demonstrating proficiency in the English language is imperative, with a minimum band score of 6.5 being the benchmark to fulfill language requirements.
  4. As part of the application process, candidates are required to provide essential documents such as Letters of Recommendation (LOR), transcripts reflecting academic performance in previous classes, well-crafted essays, and predicted grades. These components collectively play a crucial role in the comprehensive assessment of applicants for Master’s programs in Dubai.
What are the requirements for studying Under-graduation in Dubai?

To pursue undergraduate studies, certain criteria need to be met:

  1. The score prerequisites exhibit some variability but generally fall within the range of 60-75 percent, depending on the specific university and program.
  2. Proficiency in English is gauged through the IELTS or TOEFL examination, with a minimum score requirement typically set at 6.0.
  3. Application processes for most undergraduate programs are independently conducted on the official website of the respective universities, emphasizing the need for applicants to navigate university-specific procedures.
  4. As part of the application dossier, candidates are expected to furnish essential documents, including Letters of Recommendation (LOR), transcripts detailing academic performance in prior classes, well-crafted essays, and predicted grades. This comprehensive set of documents plays a pivotal role in the thorough evaluation of applicants for undergraduate programs in Dubai.

Disclaimer

This publication is provided for general information only and is not intended to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information contained in this publication does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice of this website or its affiliates. Previous results do not guarantee a similar result. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, express or implied that the contents of the publication are accurate, complete or current. Schoolingvisa.com is a service that facilitates a student’s process of acquiring a study visa by being a partner of other visa and immigration service companies. We offer consultancy services on student visas and any other visa, immigration options, but we do not directly provide any visas. We are not part of any government or immigration department. We do not provide any type of professional immigration, regardless of the destination.

Note: The information provided in this article is general, subject to frequent change and does not constitute any legal advice. For any specific study visa and legal advice you can rely on, please contact the consultants/advisors, lawyers and members of our expert team.