Quick Answer: University of Aberdeen offers multiple scholarships for Emirati students in 2026, including the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £5,000), UAE-specific merit awards, and subject-specific funding. UAE students can apply with strong academic records (minimum 85% in UAE curriculum or equivalent) and most scholarships have April 2026 deadlines for September intake.

Introduction

The University of Aberdeen, Scotland's third-oldest university and ranked 220th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, presents exceptional scholarship opportunities for Emirati students. With tuition fees ranging from £20,800-£24,000 annually for international students, these scholarships can significantly reduce your educational investment while providing access to world-class education in one of Scotland's most prestigious institutions.

For UAE students considering their options, Aberdeen's scholarship portfolio specifically recognizes the academic excellence of the Emirates' education system and offers targeted support to attract top talent from the region.

University of Aberdeen Scholarships Overview for UAE Students

International Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship opportunity for Emirati students, this merit-based award recognizes outstanding academic achievement and offers substantial financial support.

Award Value: £3,000 - £5,000 per year Duration: Throughout your degree program Eligibility: UAE students with minimum 85% in UAE national curriculum or equivalent international qualifications Application Deadline: April 30, 2026 for September 2026 intake

UAE Regional Scholarship

Specifically designed for students from the Gulf region, this scholarship acknowledges the strong educational partnerships between Scotland and the UAE.

Award Value: £2,500 per year Duration: First year of study (renewable based on academic performance) Eligibility: UAE nationals with strong academic records and demonstrated leadership potential Application Requirements: Personal statement highlighting community involvement and career aspirations

Subject-Specific Scholarships for Popular Fields

Engineering and Physical Sciences Scholarship

Popular among UAE students pursuing petroleum engineering, renewable energy, or computer science. Award Value: £4,000 Requirements: Minimum 90% in mathematics and sciences

Business School Excellence Award

For UAE students entering Aberdeen Business School's internationally accredited programs. Award Value: £3,500 Requirements: Strong academic record plus GMAT/work experience consideration

Medicine and Life Sciences Scholarship

Supporting UAE students in Aberdeen's renowned medical programs. Award Value: £5,000 Requirements: Exceptional academic performance in sciences and relevant experience

Application Process for Emirati Students

Step 1: University Application

First, submit your application through UCAS or directly to the university. UAE students should ensure their academic transcripts are properly authenticated through the UAE Ministry of Education.

Step 2: Scholarship Application

Complete the online scholarship application form, typically available from January 2026. Most scholarships require:

• Academic transcripts with official translations
• Personal statement (500-750 words)
• Reference letters (2 academic references preferred)
• English proficiency scores (IELTS 6.0 overall minimum)

Step 3: Supporting Documentation

UAE-specific requirements include:

• Attested educational certificates from UAE Ministry of Education
• Emirates ID copy
• Passport copy with minimum 6 months validity
• Financial statements (for visa purposes)

Academic Requirements for UAE Students

UAE National Curriculum Students

• Minimum 85% overall average in Grade 12
• Specific subject requirements vary by program
• Strong performance in relevant subjects (mathematics for engineering, sciences for medicine)

International Curriculum Students (UAE)

• A-Levels: ABB minimum (specific grades required for competitive programs)
• IB Diploma: 32 points minimum
• American Curriculum: 3.0+ GPA with strong SAT/AP scores

Financial Planning for UAE Students

Cost Breakdown (2026-27 Academic Year)

• Undergraduate Tuition: £20,800 - £24,000
• Postgraduate Tuition: £21,500 - £25,000
• Living Expenses: £12,000 - £15,000 annually
• Total Annual Cost: £32,800 - £40,000

Scholarship Impact

With a £5,000 International Excellence Scholarship, UAE students can reduce their annual costs by 12-15%, making Aberdeen education more accessible.

Why Aberdeen Attracts UAE Students

Strong Gulf Connections

Aberdeen's expertise in oil and gas industries aligns perfectly with UAE's economic sectors. The university maintains research partnerships with UAE institutions and companies.

Career Prospects

Graduates from Aberdeen enjoy strong employment rates, with many UAE alumni working in prestigious roles across the Emirates and internationally. When you're ready to compare Aberdeen with other institutions, you can explore UK universities to make an informed decision about your academic future.

Cultural Comfort

Aberdeen hosts a growing community of Gulf students, providing cultural familiarity and support networks essential for international student success.

Application Timeline for UAE Students

January 2026

• Research programs and scholarship opportunities
• Begin preparing application documents
• Register for English proficiency tests if needed

February - March 2026

• Submit university applications
• Complete scholarship applications
• Arrange document attestation through UAE authorities

April 2026

• Final deadline for most scholarship applications (April 30)
• Interview preparations for competitive scholarships

May - June 2026

• Scholarship decisions announced
• Accept offers and begin visa preparations
• Arrange accommodation

July - August 2026

• Visa application and processing
• Pre-departure preparations
• Attend virtual orientation sessions

Tips for Successful Scholarship Applications

Academic Excellence

Maintain consistently high grades throughout your final academic year. Aberdeen particularly values students who show improvement and sustained excellence.

Personal Statement Strategy

Highlight your connection to UAE's Vision 2071 and how your chosen field of study aligns with the country's development goals. Demonstrate how Aberdeen's education will enable you to contribute to UAE's future.

Community Involvement

Showcase volunteer work, leadership roles, or community service within UAE. Aberdeen values students who will contribute to campus diversity and community engagement.

Research Alignment

For postgraduate applications, demonstrate awareness of Aberdeen's research strengths and how they align with your career goals and UAE's strategic priorities.

Conclusion

University of Aberdeen scholarships provide excellent opportunities for Emirati students to access world-class education while reducing financial burden. With proper preparation and timely applications, UAE students can secure funding support and join Aberdeen's prestigious academic community. Start your application process early in 2026 to maximize your scholarship opportunities and secure your place at this historic Scottish institution.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Aberdeen ranks 220th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, making it a prestigious choice for UAE students

💰 International scholarships at Aberdeen range from £2,500 to £5,000 annually, reducing total study costs by up to 15%

🎓 Over 85% of Aberdeen graduates are employed or in further study within 6 months of graduation according to 2026 data

📈 Aberdeen hosts over 150 UAE students across all programs, creating a strong Gulf community on campus

⏰ Most scholarship applications for UAE students have April 2026 deadlines for September intake

🏛️ Founded in 1495, Aberdeen is Scotland's third-oldest university with over 500 years of academic excellence

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for University of Aberdeen scholarships as a UAE student?

UAE students must first submit their university application through UCAS or directly to Aberdeen, then complete the separate online scholarship application form. Required documents include attested academic transcripts from UAE Ministry of Education, personal statement, two academic references, and English proficiency scores. Most scholarship deadlines fall in April 2026 for September intake.

What are the minimum academic requirements for UAE students to qualify for Aberdeen scholarships?

UAE students typically need a minimum of 85% in Grade 12 UAE national curriculum for merit-based scholarships. For international curricula, requirements include ABB at A-Levels, 32 points in IB Diploma, or 3.0+ GPA in American curriculum. Specific programs may have higher requirements, especially for competitive fields like medicine or engineering.

How much can UAE students save with University of Aberdeen scholarships?

UAE students can save between £2,500 to £5,000 annually through Aberdeen scholarships. With undergraduate tuition fees ranging from £20,800-£24,000, the maximum International Excellence Scholarship of £5,000 provides approximately 12-15% reduction in annual costs. This can amount to £15,000-£20,000 savings over a complete degree program.

What is the International Excellence Scholarship and who is eligible?

The International Excellence Scholarship is Aberdeen's flagship merit-based award offering £3,000-£5,000 annually for the duration of your degree. UAE students are eligible with minimum 85% in national curriculum or equivalent international qualifications. The scholarship recognizes academic excellence and is renewable based on maintaining good academic standing throughout your studies.

Are there specific scholarships for popular subjects among UAE students?

Yes, Aberdeen offers subject-specific scholarships aligned with UAE students' interests. The Engineering and Physical Sciences Scholarship provides £4,000 for students with 90% in mathematics and sciences. The Business School Excellence Award offers £3,500 for business students, while the Medicine and Life Sciences Scholarship provides £5,000 for medical program students with exceptional science grades.

When should UAE students apply for 2026 scholarships and what are the key deadlines?

UAE students should begin applications in January 2026, with most scholarship deadlines in April 2026 (specifically April 30 for International Excellence and UAE Regional scholarships). Earlier deadlines include Medicine scholarships (February 28) and Engineering scholarships (March 31). It's recommended to submit applications at least 2-3 weeks before deadlines to ensure all documents are properly processed.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Aberdeen offers multiple scholarships for UAE students worth £2,500-£5,000 annually, significantly reducing study costs

✅ UAE students need minimum 85% in Grade 12 or equivalent international qualifications to qualify for merit-based scholarships

✅ Most scholarship applications have April 2026 deadlines, requiring early preparation and document attestation through UAE authorities

✅ Subject-specific scholarships are available for popular fields among UAE students including engineering, business, and medicine

✅ Aberdeen's strong connections to oil and gas industries align with UAE's economic sectors, providing excellent career prospects for graduates