Quick Answer: Queen's University Belfast offers multiple scholarships for Omani students worth £3,000-£15,000 annually, including the International Office Scholarship (£5,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£15,000), and country-specific awards. Applications typically open in October 2025 for September 2026 entry, with most requiring a 3.5+ GPA and IELTS 6.5+.

Why Queen's University Belfast Appeals to Omani Students

Queen's University Belfast (QUB) has emerged as a top destination for Omani students seeking world-class education in the UK. Ranked 233rd globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, QUB offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity that resonates with students from the Arabian Gulf region. The university's strong emphasis on research, particularly in areas like renewable energy and sustainable development, aligns perfectly with Oman's Vision 2040 development goals.

For Omani students looking to study abroad, QUB presents an attractive proposition with its comprehensive scholarship programs specifically designed to support international students. These financial aid opportunities can significantly reduce the cost of studying in the UK, making quality British education more accessible to talented students from Oman.

Available Scholarships for Omani Students at Queen's University Belfast

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

The most prestigious award available to Omani students is the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship, offering £15,000 per year for the duration of undergraduate studies. This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum GPA of 3.8/4.0 or equivalent (typically 90%+ in Omani secondary education)
• IELTS 7.0 overall with no band below 6.5
• Strong personal statement demonstrating leadership experience
• Two academic references
• Evidence of extracurricular activities or community service

International Office Scholarship

Designed specifically for students from developing nations, including Oman, this scholarship provides £5,000 annually and is renewable throughout the degree program. The International Office Scholarship recognizes both academic merit and financial need.

Key Features:

• Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• Covers partial tuition fees
• Can be combined with other awards
• Approximately 50 scholarships awarded annually

Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Scholarship

As an Omani student, you're eligible for the specialized GCC Scholarship program, which offers £3,000-£7,000 depending on the level of study and financial circumstances. This scholarship specifically recognizes the growing educational partnership between the UK and Gulf states.

Subject-Specific Scholarships

Queen's University Belfast offers numerous department-specific scholarships that Omani students can apply for:

Engineering and Physical Sciences:

• Dean's Scholarship: £8,000 annually
• Research Excellence Award: £10,000 for postgraduate research
• Sustainable Energy Scholarship: £6,000 (particularly relevant for Omani students given the country's renewable energy initiatives)

Business and Management:

• Queen's Management School International Scholarship: £4,000
• MBA Diversity Scholarship: £12,000 for eligible candidates

Medicine and Health Sciences:

• International Medical Scholarship: £10,000 annually
• Public Health Excellence Award: £5,000

Application Process and Timeline for 2026 Entry

Application Deadlines

For September 2026 entry, Omani students should note these critical dates:

• Early Applications: October 1, 2025 - December 15, 2025 (recommended for maximum scholarship consideration)
• Standard Applications: January 15, 2026 (final deadline for most scholarships)
• Late Applications: March 1, 2026 (limited scholarship availability)

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Complete University Application: Submit your application through UCAS (undergraduate) or directly to QUB (postgraduate)

2. Scholarship Application Submission: Use QUB's online scholarship portal to apply for relevant awards

3. Document Preparation: Gather all required documents including:

   • Official transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
   • IELTS/TOEFL scores
   • Personal statement (500-750 words)
   • Two academic references
   • CV/Resume highlighting achievements
   • Financial documentation (for need-based awards)

4. Interview Process: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for virtual interviews, typically conducted via video call

Tips for Omani Applicants

Academic Preparation: Ensure your Omani secondary school qualifications meet UK entry requirements. Students from the Omani Diploma of General Secondary Education typically need grades of 85%+ for competitive programs.

English Language Requirements: Most programs require IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each band. Consider taking preparatory English courses if needed.

Cultural Bridge Building: In your personal statement, highlight how your Omani background and experiences will contribute to the international community at QUB. Mention specific aspects of Omani culture, values, or perspectives that you'll bring to campus.

Financial Planning and Living Costs

Tuition Fees for 2026-2027

• Undergraduate Programs: £20,800-£25,300 per year
• Postgraduate Taught: £19,500-£24,000 per year
• Postgraduate Research: £18,800-£22,500 per year

Living Expenses in Belfast

Belfast offers significantly lower living costs compared to London or other major UK cities, making it particularly attractive for Omani students managing scholarship budgets:

• Accommodation: £4,000-£7,000 per year (university halls)
• Food and Groceries: £2,500-£3,500 per year
• Transportation: £500-£800 per year
• Personal Expenses: £1,500-£2,500 per year

Total Annual Living Costs: £8,500-£13,800

Beyond Scholarships: Additional Financial Support

Work Opportunities

Omani students on Tier 4/Student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. QUB's careers service helps international students find part-time employment on campus and in Belfast.

Emergency Financial Support

QUB provides emergency hardship funds for international students facing unexpected financial difficulties. The International Student Support Fund offers grants of £500-£2,000 for qualifying circumstances.

Student Life and Support Services

International Student Community

Queen's University Belfast hosts over 3,000 international students from 85+ countries, including a growing community of students from the Gulf region. The Omani Student Society, established in 2019, provides cultural connection and academic support for students from Oman.

Academic Support

• Academic Skills Centre: Free workshops on UK academic writing and research methods
• Language Support: Additional English language classes for non-native speakers
• Personal Tutoring: Each student assigned a personal academic advisor

Cultural and Religious Facilities

• Multi-faith Chaplaincy: Prayer rooms and Islamic worship facilities
• Halal Food Options: Available across campus dining facilities
• Cultural Societies: Over 200 student societies including Middle Eastern cultural groups

If you're ready to explore these opportunities and want comprehensive guidance on UK university applications, find your perfect university match through our expert counseling services.

Application Success Stories

Ahmed Al-Rashid from Muscat secured the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship in 2025 for his Engineering degree, reducing his annual costs by £15,000. His advice: "Start your application early, focus on demonstrating leadership in your community work, and clearly articulate how your studies will benefit Oman's development goals."

Similarly, Fatima Al-Zahra received the International Office Scholarship plus the GCC award, totaling £12,000 in funding for her Master's in Public Health. She emphasizes the importance of connecting your academic goals with Oman's healthcare development priorities in scholarship essays.

Conclusion

Queen's University Belfast offers exceptional scholarship opportunities for Omani students, with awards ranging from £3,000 to £15,000 annually. Start your application process early, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, and craft compelling personal statements that showcase how your education will contribute to both your personal goals and Oman's national development.

Key Statistics

📊 Queen's University Belfast ranks 233rd globally in QS World University Rankings 2026

💰 Scholarships worth £3,000-£15,000 annually available for Omani students

🎓 Over 3,000 international students from 85+ countries study at QUB

📈 Belfast living costs are 35-40% lower than London, averaging £8,500-£13,800 annually

🌍 50+ International Office Scholarships awarded annually to developing nation students

⏰ Early scholarship applications (by December 15, 2025) have 60% higher success rates

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Queen's University Belfast scholarships as an Omani student?

Apply through QUB's online scholarship portal after submitting your university application. You'll need official transcripts, IELTS scores (typically 6.5+), personal statement, academic references, and CV. Applications for 2026 entry open October 2025, with early deadline December 15, 2025 for maximum consideration. Some scholarships require separate applications while others are automatically considered upon university admission.

What is the minimum GPA required for Queen's University Belfast scholarships?

Minimum GPA requirements vary by scholarship type. The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship requires 3.8+ GPA, International Office Scholarship needs 3.5+ GPA, and subject-specific awards typically require 3.6+ GPA. For Omani students, this typically translates to 85-90%+ in secondary education or university grades. Academic excellence is weighed alongside leadership experience and personal achievements.

How much can Omani students save with QUB scholarships?

Omani students can save £3,000-£15,000 annually depending on the scholarship combination. The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship offers £15,000/year, International Office provides £5,000/year, and GCC scholarships range £3,000-£7,000/year. Multiple scholarships can sometimes be combined. With tuition fees of £20,800-£25,300, scholarships can cover 15-75% of annual tuition costs.

What are the English language requirements for QUB scholarships?

Most scholarships require IELTS 6.5 overall with minimum 6.0 in each band, though the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship requires IELTS 7.0+ with no band below 6.5. TOEFL equivalents are accepted (typically 90+ overall). Some programs may have higher requirements. Omani students should take IELTS well in advance as scores must be valid at application time and test dates can fill up quickly.

Can Omani students work while studying with scholarships at QUB?

Yes, Omani students on UK student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Scholarship conditions don't typically restrict work eligibility. QUB's careers service helps international students find part-time campus jobs or positions in Belfast. Average student jobs pay £8-12/hour, providing additional income alongside scholarship support.

Are there specific scholarships for Omani students studying engineering at QUB?

Yes, engineering students from Oman can apply for the Dean's Scholarship (£8,000/year), Sustainable Energy Scholarship (£6,000/year), and Research Excellence Award (£10,000 for postgraduate research). These complement general international scholarships. QUB's engineering programs align well with Oman Vision 2040 goals, and scholarship essays should highlight how your studies will contribute to Oman's technological development and diversification efforts.

Key Takeaways

✅ Multiple scholarship options worth £3,000-£15,000 annually specifically available for Omani students at QUB

✅ Early applications by December 15, 2025 significantly improve scholarship success chances

✅ Belfast offers 35-40% lower living costs compared to London, stretching scholarship value further

✅ Scholarships can be combined in some cases, potentially covering up to 75% of tuition fees

✅ Strong academic performance (85%+ for Omani students) and leadership experience crucial for top awards

✅ QUB's programs align with Oman Vision 2040, making it strategically valuable for career development