UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS FAQS
How can I apply to Khalifa University?

UAE National Students who are graduating from Grade 12 this year should apply through the Ministry of Education website for Fall 2024 deadline is April 30th, 2024. https://www.moe.gov.ae/ar/EServices/Pages/napolanding.aspx

Non – UAE National, Transfer students and previous year graduates should apply directly through the KU website. For Fall 2024, the undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree) online application is open until April 30th, 2024. No Application Fees. Khalifa University (ku.ac.ae)

What are the requirements for admissions to Khalifa University?

Click here to access the admission requirements for undergraduate studies at Khalifa University and be aware that each schooling system has different requirements.

If I’m a UAE National male in Grade 12 and have to serve in the Military after high school; when should I apply?

UAE national males who are going to Military Service should apply through NAPO website, complete the admission process, get the acceptance, and confirm joining, before leaving for the Military Service to be able to reserve their seats in the University. Your seat will be reserved for the semester following your completion of the National Service provided that you join the university as soon as the Military Clearance Certificate is issued.

Does KU Conduct entrance exams?

Physics entrance exams may be administered by KU for selected international applicants on a case-by-case basis. However, applicants applying from inside UAE should provide EmSAT exams or its alternatives. For more information about EmSAT alternatives please visit the Undergraduate admission  page.

For international applicants (coming from high schools outside the UAE), English proficiency Exam (IELTS or TOEFL) and external advanced standing credits (AL, IB, AP) are required as detailed on our Undergraduate admission  page. 

How long does it take to process an application?

Processing an application takes 4-6 weeks from submitting the application until getting the final decision.

Do I need to take an English Language proficiency test?

All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, the language of instruction at KU. All applicants must satisfy this requirement by passing academic IELTS or International TOEFL IBT or EmSAT English.

What are IELTS, TOFEL and EmSAT test dates? Are they given at Khalifa University

Test dates vary by location. They are not offered at KU. Please visit the relevant website for information on how to register for the exams:

–     IELTS: www.ielts.org

–     TOEFL: http://www.ets.org/toefl

–     EmSAT: https://emsat.moe.gov.ae/emsat/default.aspx

What are the minimum IELTS, TOFEL and EmSAT test scores required to apply to Khalifa University?

Dircte Admissions: IETS 6.0 – TOFEL IBT 79 – EmSAT English 1400

Conditional Admission: IELTS 5.5 – TOFEL IBT 70 – EmSAT English 1250

If an applicant meets the admission requirements except for the English requirement (TOFEL/IELTS/ EmSAT English score), can he/she still join KU?

Applicants have to fulfill all admission requirements to be admitted. Therefore, applicants who do not meet the ELPR may not enroll.

Where should I have my test scores sent?

Test scores should be uploaded in the student online application Or it can be sent by email to  UGadmissions@ku.ac.ae along with Application Reference Number.

Office of Student Recruitment and Admission Khalifa University of Science, Technology & Research P.O Box : 127788, Abu Dhabi, UAE

What are the majors offered at Khalifa University?

KU offers a variety of Undergraduate majors that are well indicated in the following link: https://www.ku.ac.ae/academics/undergraduate-programs 

All programs offered by Khalifa University have received accreditation by the UAE Ministry of Education. The Accreditation attests to the overall quality of the individual degree programs.

Does KU provide residency visas for its students?

Students can apply to transfer his/her visa after joining Khalifa University.

If I am accepted to Khalifa University, will I be able to live in student housing?

Student housing (subject to availability) is available to international students and students residing outside the city of Abu Dhabi. Separate male and female accommodations are provided. Click here for more information on student housing.

Does Khalifa University accept transfer students?

All transfer candidates who are interested in applying to Khalifa University should meet the admission requirements (https://www.ku.ac.ae/undergraduate-admissions) . In addition, they should submit an official copy of their transcript(s) along with other documents to be considered upon evaluation of their admission application.

Please note that Khalifa University approves transfer of credit requests on a limited basis, and such requests are handled in accordance with the approved policies and procedures by the university, and within the limits of each program. The decision to accept a transfer of credit request is based on several factors, including a review of the content, number of credit hours, course level and an assessment of a student’s overall academic performance at the previous institution.

Who is eligible for a scholarship?

All UAE National students accepted in the undergraduate programs as a Direct Admission enjoy a full scholarship to study at Khalifa University. International students (from inside or outside the UAE) also benefit from scholarships at KU based on their academic qualifications and availability of places.

What type of scholarships are provided for International students?

Full scholarships are given to outstanding students. Partial scholarships are also provided to International students in different programs. For more information, visit our undergraduate scholarships page: https://www.ku.ac.ae/scholarships-undergraduate 

Where is KU accredited?

KU is licensed and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the United Arab Emirates.

If I missed one of the EmSAT requirements or EmSAT alternatives, will it affect my application?

Yes, your application will be affected and it will jeopardize your admission to KU. For more information about EmSAT, and, EmSAT alternatives please visit the Undergraduate admission page

What is the minimum score in EmSAT to skip the foundation year?

KU is no longer entertaining a foundation year. Applicants who do not meet the criteria for direct admission may be eligible for conditional admission, with the option to enroll in remedial courses under a fee-paying scholarship.

Who is qualified for Early Admission at KU?

Early admission is offered for students who are in Grade 12 at the time of application to the university, who meet the English and Math requirements. Previous year graduates are only considered for regular admission. 

Note: Submitting the recorded interview isn’t required for the early admission.

If I didn’t get the acceptance in the early admission because I didn’t get the minimum score in EmSAT or its alternatives, do I have any chance to be accepted in KU?

Yes, you do have a chance if you repeat the EmSAT, or you satisfy its alternatives, and get the minimum required scores before the deadline. Please make sure that you send your scores to the Admission Office by email (UGadmissions@ku.ac.ae)  in order to be able to re-evaluate your application.

Do you consider SAT exam?

SAT MATH will be considered for International students applying from other curricula outside the UAE with a minimum score of 700.

I’m a UAE National applicant who is living outside the UAE, but I can’t take EmSat. What is the procedure in my case?

You need to satisfy either the EmSAT or its alternatives.

For more information about Emsat alternatives, please visit the Undergraduate admission page.

Do you accept International students?

Yes. Please refer to this link for International Students admission criteria Undergraduate admission

I got accepted but in a different program. Can I change the program later on?

Yes, you can do so by submitting a Change of Major request, which is subject to availability and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis considering the current scholarship

Does KU accept Online IELTS?

We only accept Academic IELTS as it is one of the English Language Proficiency requirements for admission, as detailed on our Undergraduate admission.

Can I apply for a scholarship online?

There is no separate application for scholarship. Applicant will receive the acceptance and details regarding the type of scholarship within the admission offer.

I have completed everything and I do meet KU requirements, but I didn’t get accepted, can I know why?

Kindly send us an email with your application reference number to: ugadmissions@ku.ac.ae

How can I change my preference on NAPO and choose KU?

You must reach out to NAPO within the designated timeframe.

IF I don’t have an equivalency certificate now, can I submit it later on?

You can apply for the Equivalency certificate after you get your final Grade 12 Transcript. If you can’t submit the equivalency certificate on time, you’ll need to submit a “No Objection Letter” from the Ministry of Education. This allows you to start the first semester while waiting for your equivalency certificate. https://www.moe.gov.ae/En/EServices/ServiceCard/pages/CertEquivalent.aspx

I’m an ATHS student; do I have to submit an equivalency certificate?

No, you don’t have to.

How can I book for the interview?

The admission personal interview is now included as a recorded video, as part of the online application form; you can log in to the KU online application form, record your video, and submit it.

What happens if I submitted IELTS, TOEFL & EmSAT?

Khalifa University will consider the highest score among the certificates for the purpose of admission. 

Do AP/ British A level/ IB HL official exams help me to skip some courses?

Yes. All advanced level subjects with required minimum scores help you be granted transfer credits as you join the university. For more information, please visit https://www.ku.ac.ae/undergraduate-admissions

I have AP/A-level/IB HL scores, how can I get credits for those course(s)?

You need to submit a copy of the official certificate which will be verified by the Registration Office and they will get back to you with a decision.

Can I apply now before doing all EmSAT Exams?

Yes. The online admission portal is open now until April 2024. You may apply before doing your EmSAT exams. However your application will only go through final processing once the required EmSAT scores are provided. Documents can be updated through your application online before the deadline.

Can I apply before getting my final results of Grade 12?

Yes. Similar to the above query, you may apply before receiving your final grades. However you should apply with your Term 1 or 2 grades, while British Curriculum and IB students should apply with predicted scores.

How do I apply for a scholarship (Expat & International)?

All students in KU study under scholarship. However the scholarship levels are based on the seating capacity available for each. Hence once you apply to KU, you automatically enroll for the scholarship. More information on scholarship levels can be found on the webpage https://www.ku.ac.ae/scholarships-undergraduate  in the Scholarships for International students section.

My education curriculum is not listed in the website? How would you consider my application?

All students applying from inside UAE, should maintain a minimum overall score of 75%, or its equivalent, for the Advanced stream 80% and General 90% is required. Applied Streams students are not eligible for admission to KU. https://www.ku.ac.ae/undergraduate-admissions

When are the final decisions made?

After submitting the application and doing all admission procedures, the admission committee will review your application within 3-6 weeks and update you.

I’m a previous year graduate, and I didn’t get required score in EmSAT English, how can I repeat it?

Contact EmSAT department under Ministry of Education to register for the test. In case

EmSAT English is unattainable, IELTS (Academic) or TOEFL (iBT) can be considered.

I have already graduated last year, can I still apply?

Yes. As long as you have graduated from high school within two years of applying, your application will be considered.

Once admitted as a first semester freshman student, will I be able to register for my courses myself?

After being accepted and enrolling at KU, the Registration Office will take care of registering your first-term courses; you won’t need to do it online yourself.

GRADUATE ADMISSIONS FAQS
Can I add or change my references after I have submitted my online application?

You may add or delete  references by emailing the Office of Admissions at pgadmissions@ku.ac.ae. 

How many letters of recommendation are required and who should write them?

Two letters of recommendation from people who know your academic qualifications are required. 

When does the notification email reach my references asking them to send a recommendation letter

Once you have submitted your application, an automatic email will be sent to your referees requesting them to send a recommendation letter. 

What is the schedule of full-time and part-time study?

The schedule varies from one semester to the other. 

What is the eligibility for the University residences for postgraduate students?

Student housing is available for registered full-time Khalifa University postgraduate students. A rental fee applies per semester and will be deducted from the monthly stipend. Please contact the Student Service Department via email pgr.life@ku.ac.ae for assistance.

When will we know the results of postgraduate admissions?

Admitted applicants are normally notified via e-mail no later than eight weeks after the application deadline.

When will the orientation for new postgraduate students be held?

The orientation for postgraduate students is normally held the week before classes begin. 

Can I apply for the next semester if I get rejected during this semester?

Yes. 

What documents do I have to provide in order to apply for a Postgraduate Scholarship?

Please refer to the Graduate Admissions – Requirements page to know more about the necessary documents needed to apply for a scholarship. 

How I can apply for the Postgraduate Scholarship at KU?

For information regarding graduate scholarships, please refer to the Graduate Scholarships page. 

When will the postgraduate admissions open so I can submit my application?

Admission for the Fall 2024 semester is open until April 30, 2024.

 

How much does it cost to pursue a Doctorate degree program at Khalifa University?

The Doctorate programs cost 6,666 AED per credit hour. Please refer to the Tuition Fees page for more details.

How much does it cost to pursue a Master’s degree program at Khalifa University?

The Master’s program costs 5,000 AED per credit hour. Please refer to the Tuition Fees page for more details. 

What graduate programs does Khalifa University offer?

Please refer to the Graduate Programs page for a full list of Master’s and Doctorate programs offered by the University.

I would like to apply for a program listed on the Khalifa University website, but it does not appear as an option in my online application.

Please note that some of our programs are open only to UAE National applicants. Please refer to the Graduate Programs webpage for the requirements of each program.

Can I apply for more than one graduate program at Khalifa University?

Applicants can only apply to one program per semester.

When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted via the University website on or before the date listed on the Graduate Admissions webpage.

I am due to graduate after the admissions deadline closes and I haven’t received my degree certificate yet. Can I still apply?

Yes, you can still apply. Please submit your academic transcripts to date, as well as a letter confirming your status as a registered student and your expected graduation date. Unofficial transcripts can be submitted at the time of application. These documents are mandatory at the time of application and can be obtained from your university.

Can I choose to study full-time or part-time?

Graduate studies at Khalifa University can be undertaken on a full-time or part-time basis, depending on the program you apply for. Please note that some graduate programs are available on a part-time basis only.

What scholarships are available at Khalifa University?

Please refer to the Graduate Scholarships webpage for further information about scholarships offered by Khalifa University of Science and Technology. Please note that scholarships are subject to availability and will be confirmed at the conclusion of the admission process. No additional application is required to be considered for a scholarship.

What are the graduate program admission requirements?

Admission requirements for Master’s and Doctorate programs are outlined on the Graduate Admissions – Requirements page. Please note that admission is highly competitive and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee entry into the program.

What documents do I have to provide in order to apply for Postgraduate Admission?

Please refer to the Graduate Admissions – Required Documents page for a full list of documents required to apply.

My GPA is between 2.5 and 3.0, but I have other strengths in my application. Can I still apply?

You can still apply and your application may be considered by the GR Admissions Committee on a case-by-case basis. 

What are the minimum English language requirements (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS test scores)?

English is the official language of instruction and assessment at Khalifa University. To be eligible for admission, applicants must achieve a minimum iTOEFL (internet-based test) score of 91 or minimum academic IELTS overall band score of 6.5. The test must have been taken during the 24 months (2 years) preceding the application.

English Language Test Exemptions

Subject to approval, the English test score requirement may be waived for an applicant who is:

  • A native English speaker who has completed his/her Bachelor’s/Master’s degree qualification in an English medium institution; or
  • A graduate from an English-medium institution who can provide evidence of acquiring a minimum overall academic IELTS score of 6.0 or a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 79 (or equivalent) at the time of admission to the completed Bachelor’s/Master’s degree program.

All applicants must provide evidence of meeting the English language requirement by uploading the relevant document with their application, even if he/she may be eligible for an exemption.

Is the TOEFL/IELTS test score required at the time I apply?

All applicants must have completed TOEFL or IELTS at the time they are applying for a graduate program at Khalifa University or by the deadline for submitting the applications, at the latest. It is mandatory for all applicants to upload a copy of their English score certificate.

Is the GRE test score required at the time I apply?

All applicants must have completed the GRE General Test at the time they are applying for a graduate program at Khalifa University or by the deadline for submitting the applications, at the latest. It is mandatory for all applicants to upload a copy of their GRE score certificate. 

How can I submit my GRE/TOEFL official score reports to Khalifa University?

Please upload a copy of your test score certificates to the online application or have the test score sent by email to pgadmissions@ku.ac.ae along with the your Application Reference Number.

You can also have the test scores sent directly to Khalifa University using the following institutional codes:

  •  GRE institutional code: 0822
  •  TOEFL institutional code: 0960

Documents may also be sent to the following address: The Office of Student Recruitment & Admissions (Graduate Admissions), Level 2, Building E, Khalifa University Main Campus, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

What is an Equivalency Certificate and how can I apply for it?

Applicants who have completed their tertiary studies outside the UAE or at a private university in the UAE must obtain an equivalency certificate from the UAE Ministry of Education. Please refer to the MOE Service Catalog for more information on certificate equivalency and attestation.

What is a Grading Scale and is it mandatory for admission?

The grading scale or grading scheme explains the academic results displayed on your transcript. It is mandatory to submit a copy of the grading scale with your application. Most universities post the grading scale on their website or print it on the back of the transcript. Alternatively, you should contact the administration office at your university.

Where can I submit my application?

Applications for graduate admissions can be made online.

Can I make changes to my application?
  • Changes to program or study mode:

If you have started, but not submitted your application yet, you can delete it and start the process again to specify a different program or study mode.

  •  Changes to other information, such as Personal Details, Academic Qualifications, Employment Details, and  Scholarship type:

If you have not submitted your application yet, you can make changes by clicking on the relevant section and updating the information fields.

If you have already submitted your application, it is not possible to make changes. Please contact the Admissions team by email at  pgadmissions@ku.ac.ae for assistance.

Can I upload additional documents after submitting my application?

Yes, it is possible to update your documents after the application has been submitted. To do this, login to your account and upload additional documents in the ‘Attachments’ section. Please note that it is not possible to make changes to documents that have already been submitted. If you would like to change any of your submitted documents, please contact the Admissions team by email at  pgadmissions@ku.ac.ae.

I am having trouble uploading my documents online. What should I do?

Please ensure that the files you are uploading meet the following requirements:

  •  Documents must be in PDF format with a maximum file size of 4MB
  •  Photographs must be in JPEG format with a maximum file size of 2MB

If your files are in the correct format and you are still unable to upload them, please contact the IT Helpdesk by email at:  servicedesh@ku.ac.ae for assistance.

Can my reference letter be provided to Khalifa University of Science and Technology in hard copy or via email?

The University does not accept reference letters in hard copy or via e-mail. During the application process, you will be required to provide the contact details of your referees, who will be invited to complete an online Reference Form after the application is submitted. Please do not ask your referees to email the University with their recommendations.

How can I check if my references have been submitted?

Please login to view your application and refer to “Application Checklist”, ‘Recommendation’.

I am applying for a PhD program. Do I need to contact a potential supervisor first to agree on a research topic?

Applicants are not required to contact potential supervisors prior to submitting their application. However, prior to drafting the Research Statement, PhD applicants are encouraged to explore the University’s research priorities and view Faculty profiles on our website. Research Statement guidelines can be found on the Graduate Admissions – Requirements webpage. The assignment of supervisors will be made by the University following the completion of the application process and is based on strategic research priorities.

How will I be informed about the final decision regarding my application?

Shortlisted applicants are normally invited to attend an interview before a final decision is made on their application. Admission decisions are released at different times, depending on when the complete application was submitted. 

Please note that the University is unable to provide updates on the status of individual applications.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

A graduate student may request the transfer of credits for relevant graduate courses completed at an institution that is accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education. Subject to approval, credits will only be awarded for substantially equivalent graduate courses not used to fulfill requirements for a previously earned degree. Transfer credits will not be given for work experience, vocational or training courses, or coursework that is not considered graduate level.
In order to apply for a credit transfer, applicants must submit an official transcript and catalog descriptions of the relevant courses.

I forgot my password. What should I do?

Passwords can be reset using the “Forgot Password?” link on the online application home page.

I am having technical issues with the online application system, what should I do?

Please contact the IT Helpdesk by email at servicedesk@ku.ac.ae for assistance.

What GPA would I need to be accepted to study Master’s degree at KU?

To apply to the Master’s degree programs, applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 3.0 out of 4.0 or its equivalent (e.g., an upper second-class honors in a UK-style degree from a reputable accredited institution). Please refer to the Graduate Admissions – Requirements page for more details. 

What Master’s degrees are offered at KU?

Please refer to the Programs website: https://www.ku.ac.ae/academics/graduate-programs#programs

What Doctorate degrees are offered at KU?

Please refer to the Programs website: https://www.ku.ac.ae/academics/graduate-programs#programs

Is there transportation from the Residences to different campus location?

Student transportation is available to ensure students are transported between the three campuses and between the Residences and campuses. A schedule for the different routes and timings is announced to all students.