MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 — Introduction
The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi is a specialized graduate research university focused on AI, Machine Learning and Data Science. The MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 provides fully funded Masters and PhD scholarships for admitted students, including tuition waivers, monthly stipends, health insurance, visa support, and research funding opportunities. These scholarships are available to both UAE nationals and international students.
Host Country & University — Study in UAE at MBZUAI
The MBZUAI campus is located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The university collaborates with international research institutions and industry partners to offer cutting-edge programs in AI and its applications. MBZUAI's strategic location makes it attractive for global students seeking high-quality AI graduate education.
Eligibility Criteria for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 — Who Can Apply?
The MBZUAI Scholarship targets academically strong candidates in AI-related fields. Eligibility highlights:
- Masters applicants: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, AI, Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields.
- PhD applicants: Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (exceptions for outstanding candidates with strong research records).
- Strong GPA / academic performance and research potential (publications, projects, internships are advantages).
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) or approved exemption.
- Open to applicants of all nationalities — both UAE residents and international students may apply.
Scholarship Benefits — What MBZUAI Scholarships Cover (Masters & PhD)
MBZUAI scholarships provide substantial financial and academic support. Typical benefits include:
- Full tuition waiver for admitted students.
- Monthly stipend: Masters — AED 15,500; PhD — AED 17,500.
- Health insurance and visa sponsorship for international students.
- Access to research grants, lab facilities, and conference travel funding.
- Accommodation support or housing allowances where applicable.
Available Programs at MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 — Masters & PhD Fields
MBZUAI focuses on specialized AI programs. Main offerings include:
- MSc in Machine Learning
- MSc in Computer Vision
- MSc in Natural Language Processing
- PhD in Machine Learning
- PhD in Computer Vision
- PhD in Natural Language Processing
Eligible Qualification Fields to Apply for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026
Preferred academic backgrounds include (but are not limited to):
- Computer Science & Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Data Science & Big Data Analytics
- Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Applied Mathematics, Statistics & Optimization
- Robotics & Control Systems
Documents Required to Apply for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 — Complete Checklist
Prepare the following documents for a complete application package:
- Completed online application form (MBZUAI portal)
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with research experience
- Statement of Purpose / Personal Statement
- Research proposal (required for PhD applicants)
- Two or more academic recommendation letters (three recommended for PhD)
- Valid passport copy and identification
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) or evidence of exemption
- GRE test scores (optional) — may strengthen candidates' profiles
English Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL) — Requirements & Exemptions
Accepted tests & suggested minimums (typical):
- IELTS Academic: Overall minimum score 6.5 (no band lower than 6.0).
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score 90 (with competitive sub-scores in reading, listening, speaking & writing).
- TOEFL PBT / other equivalents: Considered where applicable — check MBZUAI admissions for specifics.
Exemptions: Applicants who have completed a degree where the medium of instruction was English at a recognized university (for example in the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or other English-instruction institutions) may request an exemption. Exemptions are evaluated by MBZUAI admissions on a case-by-case basis.
Official reference: MBZUAI — Admissions. For test details: IELTS official, TOEFL official (ETS). Note: Test score validity is typically 2 years.
How to Apply for MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 — Application Process & Periods for All Tracks
Important: There is no separate scholarship application. The admission application is the scholarship application — admitted candidates receive scholarship offers as part of the admission package.
Application Tracks & Periods
- Graduate (Masters & PhD) — Priority Track: Applications open 1 Sep 2025. Priority deadline: 15 Nov 2025. Final deadline: 15 Dec 2025.
- Graduate (Masters & PhD) — Rolling / Late Applications: Some programs may accept late or rolling applications until Mar 2026, depending on availability and program intake.
- Undergraduate: Early Decision deadline 15 Nov 2025; Regular Decision deadline 30 Apr 2026 (dates may vary by program).
- International applicants: Apply early to allow time for visa processing; follow the dates above and check MBZUAI portal for country-specific guidance.
Step-by-step:
- Create an account on the MBZUAI application portal (Apply Now).
- Complete the online form, select the intended program (MSc / PhD) and upload documents.
- Provide referee contacts and request recommendation letters.
- Submit before the relevant deadline and monitor your application status via your MBZUAI account.
Apply Online (official portal): Apply to MBZUAI
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