Quick Answer: The University of Leicester offers several scholarships for UAE students in 2026, including the International Excellence Scholarships (up to £5,000), Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships (£2,000-£3,000), and subject-specific awards. UAE students can apply for multiple scholarships with IELTS 6.5+ and strong academic records (80%+ for undergraduate, 3.0+ GPA for postgraduate).

The University of Leicester, consistently ranked among the top 30 universities in the UK, has become an increasingly popular destination for UAE students seeking quality education with financial support. Located in the heart of England, this prestigious institution offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities specifically designed to make higher education more accessible for international students from the UAE.

For UAE students planning their 2026 university journey, understanding the available funding options at the University of Leicester can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. This comprehensive guide covers all scholarship opportunities, eligibility requirements, and application strategies specifically tailored for Emirati students.

University of Leicester Scholarships Available for UAE Students

International Excellence Scholarships

The International Excellence Scholarships represent the most substantial funding opportunity for UAE students at the University of Leicester. These merit-based awards are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting in September 2026.

Award Amount: £3,000 - £5,000 per year Eligibility for UAE Students:

• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
• Undergraduate: 85% or above in UAE secondary education (Tawjihiyya) or equivalent
• Postgraduate: First-class honors degree or equivalent (3.5+ GPA)
• Firm acceptance of a place at the University of Leicester

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarships

Designed to attract high-achieving international students, these scholarships are particularly competitive and recognize academic excellence among UAE applicants.

Award Amount: £2,000 - £3,000 per year Duration: Full length of the program Eligibility Requirements:

• Outstanding academic performance in previous studies
• Demonstration of leadership potential
• Strong personal statement showcasing career ambitions
• Available for all subject areas

Subject-Specific Scholarships for Popular Programs

UAE students often gravitate toward specific programs at Leicester, and several departments offer targeted funding:

Business School Scholarships

• MBA Excellence Awards: Up to £4,000
• Master's in Management scholarships: £2,500
• Undergraduate Business scholarships: £2,000

Engineering and Technology Scholarships

• STEM Excellence Awards: £3,000 annually
• Innovation Scholarships: £2,500
• Research scholarships for PhD students: Full tuition coverage

Medical and Life Sciences Funding

• Healthcare Leadership Scholarships: £3,500
• Biomedical Research Awards: £2,000-£4,000
• Clinical Psychology scholarships: £2,500

Application Process and Deadlines for 2026 Entry

Key Application Deadlines

Early Application Round:

• Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
• Notification Date: May 15, 2026
• Benefits: Higher chance of success, more scholarship options available

Standard Application Round:

• Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
• Notification Date: July 31, 2026
• Note: Limited scholarship availability

Required Documents for UAE Students

1. Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from UAE Ministry of Education or KHDA-approved institutions
2. English Language Proficiency: IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5) or equivalent TOEFL scores
3. Personal Statement: 500-800 words highlighting academic achievements and career goals
4. Reference Letters: Two academic or professional references
5. UAE National ID or Passport: Proof of Emirati citizenship or UAE residency
6. Financial Documentation: Bank statements showing ability to cover remaining costs

Application Strategy Tips for UAE Students

Strengthen Your Application:

• Highlight unique aspects of UAE culture and how they contribute to university diversity
• Showcase involvement in UAE community projects or initiatives
• Demonstrate knowledge of Leicester's programs and how they align with UAE's Vision 2071
• Include Arabic language skills as an additional asset

Scholarship Amounts and Living Cost Considerations

Total Study Costs for UAE Students (2026)

Undergraduate Programs:

• Annual tuition: £19,000 - £24,000
• Living expenses: £9,000 - £12,000
• Total annual cost: £28,000 - £36,000

Postgraduate Programs:

• Annual tuition: £18,000 - £28,000
• Living expenses: £9,000 - £12,000
• Total annual cost: £27,000 - £40,000

How Scholarships Help: With scholarships ranging from £2,000 to £5,000 annually, UAE students can reduce their total study costs by 10-20%. For a three-year undergraduate program, this could mean savings of £6,000 to £15,000.

Alternative Funding Sources for UAE Students

UAE Government Scholarships

The UAE government offers several scholarship programs that can be combined with University of Leicester awards:

• Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Scholarships
• Sheikh Zayed Higher Education Scholarships
• ADEC Excellence Scholarships for Abu Dhabi residents

External Scholarship Organizations

• British Council UAE Scholarships
• Chevening Scholarships (for postgraduate study)
• Commonwealth Scholarships (limited availability)

Why Choose University of Leicester?

The University of Leicester offers UAE students several advantages beyond financial support:

Academic Excellence:

• Ranked 27th in the UK (The Complete University Guide 2026)
• 94% graduate employability rate within 15 months
• Research-intensive environment with world-class facilities

Student Support Services:

• Dedicated International Student Support team
• Arabic-speaking staff members
• Active UAE student society with 200+ members
• Halal dining options and prayer facilities

Location Benefits:

• Central England location with easy access to London
• Multicultural city with established Middle Eastern community
• Direct flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to nearby airports

If you're ready to explore your options for studying in the UK with scholarship support, you can find your perfect university match through our comprehensive guidance platform, which helps connect UAE students with suitable programs and funding opportunities.

Maximizing Your Scholarship Success

Academic Preparation

UAE students should focus on achieving strong academic results in their final year of secondary school or undergraduate studies. The University of Leicester places significant emphasis on consistent academic performance rather than just final grades.

Language Preparation

While IELTS 6.5 is the minimum requirement, achieving 7.0 or higher significantly improves scholarship chances. Consider enrolling in IELTS preparation courses available in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other UAE cities.

The University of Leicester's commitment to supporting international students, combined with its strong academic reputation and diverse funding opportunities, makes it an excellent choice for UAE students planning their 2026 university journey. With proper preparation and a strategic approach to scholarship applications, Emirati students can significantly reduce their study costs while gaining access to world-class education in the UK.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Leicester ranks 27th in the UK according to The Complete University Guide 2026, making it a top-tier choice for UAE students

💰 Scholarships for UAE students range from £2,000 to £5,000 annually, potentially saving up to £15,000 over a three-year program

🎓 94% of Leicester graduates find employment or continue studying within 15 months of graduation, ensuring strong career prospects

📈 Over 200 UAE students are currently part of the active Emirati student society at University of Leicester

🌍 Leicester offers programs in 150+ subject areas with dedicated support for international students from the UAE

⏰ Early scholarship applications by March 31, 2026 have a 40% higher success rate compared to standard deadline applications

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

UAE students should first apply for admission through UCAS (undergraduate) or directly to the university (postgraduate). Once you receive a conditional or unconditional offer, you can apply for scholarships through the university's online portal. Submit your scholarship application by March 31, 2026 for the best chance of success, including academic transcripts, IELTS scores, personal statement, and reference letters. UAE-specific documents like Emirates ID or passport are also required.

What is the minimum IELTS score required for Leicester scholarships?

The minimum IELTS requirement for most University of Leicester scholarships is 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. However, achieving a score of 7.0 or higher significantly improves your chances of receiving larger scholarship awards. UAE students can take IELTS tests in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates. Some programs may require higher English language scores, particularly in Medicine, Law, and English Literature.

How much can UAE students save with Leicester scholarships?

UAE students can save between £2,000 to £5,000 annually through University of Leicester scholarships. For a three-year undergraduate program, this translates to total savings of £6,000 to £15,000. When combined with UAE government scholarships or external funding, students could potentially cover 30-50% of their total study costs. The International Excellence Scholarships offer the highest value at up to £5,000 per year for the full duration of the program.

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

For undergraduate scholarships, UAE students typically need 85% or above in their Tawjihiyya (General Secondary Certificate) or equivalent international qualifications. Postgraduate applicants should have a first-class honors degree or equivalent (3.5+ GPA on a 4.0 scale). Students from American curriculum schools should aim for a 3.7+ GPA, while those from British curriculum need A-levels with AAB or higher. Consistent academic performance throughout your studies is more important than just final grades.

Can UAE students combine multiple scholarships at University of Leicester?

Yes, UAE students may be eligible to combine certain scholarships, but there are restrictions. You can typically combine a departmental scholarship with a university-wide award, but you cannot hold multiple university-wide scholarships simultaneously. The maximum combined scholarship value is usually capped at 50% of tuition fees. Students should also explore combining Leicester scholarships with UAE government funding programs or external awards for maximum financial support.

What support services does Leicester offer specifically for UAE students?

University of Leicester provides comprehensive support for UAE students including a dedicated International Student Support team with Arabic-speaking staff members. The campus features halal dining options, prayer facilities, and an active UAE student society with over 200 members. The university also offers airport pickup services, orientation programs tailored for Middle Eastern students, and guidance on UK visa requirements. Academic support includes specialized tutorial programs and career counseling focused on UAE job market opportunities.

When should UAE students apply for 2026 scholarships at Leicester?

UAE students should submit their scholarship applications by March 31, 2026 for the early round, which offers the best chances of success and access to the full range of funding options. The standard deadline is June 30, 2026, but scholarship availability is limited in this round. It's recommended to apply for university admission by January 2026 to allow sufficient time for scholarship applications. Early applicants have approximately 40% higher success rates for receiving funding awards.

How does Leicester compare to other UK universities for UAE students?

University of Leicester ranks 27th in the UK and offers competitive scholarship amounts ranging from £2,000-£5,000 annually, which is above average for UK institutions. The university has a strong reputation in research and teaching, with 94% graduate employability rates. Leicester's central England location provides easy access to London while maintaining lower living costs compared to universities in major cities. The established UAE student community and cultural support services make it particularly welcoming for Emirati students compared to many other UK institutions.

Key Takeaways

✅ Apply early by March 31, 2026 for the best scholarship opportunities and higher success rates

✅ Aim for IELTS 7.0+ and strong academic records (85%+ for undergraduate, 3.5+ GPA for postgraduate) to maximize funding chances

✅ Consider combining University of Leicester scholarships with UAE government funding programs for maximum financial support

✅ Leicester offers excellent value with scholarships up to £5,000 annually and strong graduate employability at 94%

✅ Take advantage of dedicated support services including Arabic-speaking staff and active UAE student community

✅ Prepare comprehensive application materials including UAE-specific documents and compelling personal statements highlighting cultural contributions