MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD)

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), Abu Dhabi

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Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a Master’s degree for PhD programmes

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

MBZUAI is a graduate university focused on artificial intelligence in Abu Dhabi. The 2027 graduate application opened in September 2026 and closes on 15 December 2026. Decisions are expected by the end of March 2027 and programmes start in August 2027. Funding differs between PhD and Master’s programmes.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a Master’s degree for PhD programmes
2. Note the deadline. Dec (annual; the 2027 intake deadline listed is 15 Dec 2026 - confirm on the MBZUAI admissions page) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Official transcripts and degree certificates; Recommendation letters; Research statement (PhD); CV; English proficiency score.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Check which Master’s tracks come with funding before you apply
2. For the PhD, connect your research statement to a specific faculty group
3. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
4. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
5. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
6. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
7. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
8. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD)?

International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a Master’s degree for PhD programmes

What does MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD) cover?

PhD: funded study with a monthly stipend, tuition and health insurance as published by MBZUAI. Master’s: funding is not automatic with admission, so check the official page for the current model

When is the deadline for MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD)?

Dec (annual; the 2027 intake deadline listed is 15 Dec 2026 - confirm on the MBZUAI admissions page) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD)?

Host countries: United Arab Emirates.

What documents do I need for MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD)?

Official transcripts and degree certificates; Recommendation letters; Research statement (PhD); CV; English proficiency score.

How much work is the MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s & PhD) application?

High: Online application + transcripts + referee recommendations (2 for Master’s, 3 for PhD) + research statement for PhD