Fully Funded MBZUAI Scholarship 2026
If you want a world-class AI education without tuition bills, the MBZUAI scholarship is one of the most important opportunities to consider. This guide explains what the MBZUAI scholarship covers, who can apply, how the application works, and practical tips to make your submission stronger. Read on for a clear, step-by-step breakdown that’s easy to follow.
The MBZUAI scholarship attracts top students because it pairs advanced AI programs with generous financial support and a research-focused campus in Abu Dhabi. Below I unpack degree options, benefits, application steps, and important dates so you can decide if this scholarship is right for you.
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Description
Mohammed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) is a specialized graduate university focused on AI research and training. The MBZUAI scholarship program supports full-time graduate students in M.Sc. and Ph.D. programs, enabling study in an innovative academic environment in Abu Dhabi. MBZUAI is government-backed and built to accelerate AI research and education.
Degree level
Offered under the scholarship:
Master’s (M.Sc.) in AI-related fields
Doctorate (Ph.D.) in AI specialties
The university lists multiple M.Sc. and Ph.D. tracks across machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, and other AI subfields. GRE is optional but can strengthen an application.
Available subjects
Common graduate programs
Machine Learning (M.Sc., Ph.D.)
Computer Vision (M.Sc., Ph.D.)
Natural Language Processing (M.Sc., Ph.D.)
Robotics and selected interdisciplinary fields (program availability may change)
Computational Biology and Human-Computer Interaction – new programs may start in future intakes.
Benefits (what the MBZUAI scholarship typically covers)
Key benefits usually include:
Full tuition coverage for the program duration.
Monthly stipend for living expenses — reported figures vary by source and nationality; several third-party summaries list higher stipends for UAE nationals and a set stipend for international students. Check official MBZUAI pages for the most current rates.
Health insurance and support with visa procedures.
On-campus accommodation options with priority for first-year students (may be fee-deducted from stipends).
Note: stipend amounts reported online are sometimes inconsistent. Always verify the latest figures on MBZUAI’s official site or the admissions portal before relying on them.
Eligible nationalities
The MBZUAI scholarship is open to applicants from all nationalities. Domestic and international students can apply; international candidates are supported with visa sponsorship when admitted.
Eligibility criteria
Basic academic and submission requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field for M.Sc. applicants; Master’s for Ph.D. applicants. Common backgrounds include computer science, electrical/computer engineering, mathematics, physics, data science, and related majors.
Minimum CGPA typically around 3.0–3.5 / 4.0, depending on the program.
Required documents: CV, Statement of Purpose, transcripts, degree certificates (or current transcripts for final-year students), two referees, and a research statement for Ph.D. candidates. GRE is optional but helpful.
All applicants must pass an online technical screening exam and, if shortlisted, a faculty interview.
Application procedure
Step-by-step process:
Prepare documents — transcripts, CV, SOP, referee contacts, research statement (Ph.D.). Make sure degrees are from institutions recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education if required.
Submit online application via MBZUAI’s admissions portal. Complete every section and upload required files.
Take the screening exam — topics usually include math, statistics, programming (Python), and machine learning basics.
Attend an interview if shortlisted — expect technical and research-focused questions.
Receive admission decision via the portal and email. Follow instructions for visa, health insurance, and enrollment.
Important dates
Typical timeline and deadlines vary by intake. Always check the MBZUAI admissions page for the current cycle deadlines before applying. The university publishes updated application windows and decision dates on the official site.
Final thoughts
The MBZUAI scholarship is a strong option if you want concentrated AI training with financial support and a research-first environment. Focus on strengthening your technical background, crafting a clear statement of purpose, and preparing for the screening exam and interview — these steps make the biggest difference.
FAQs
Q1: Is the MBZUAI scholarship fully funded?
Yes — the scholarship typically covers full tuition and provides additional benefits such as a stipend and health insurance. Confirm exact inclusions on MBZUAI’s official pages.
Q2: Can I apply as a final-year student?
Yes — final-year students can usually apply with current transcripts; official documents are required upon admission.
Q3: Is GRE required?
GRE is generally optional but recommended if you want to strengthen your application.
Q4: Where can I verify stipend amounts?
Stipend figures are reported by a few scholarship directories; always verify the latest numbers on MBZUAI’s official site or contact admissions directly.
