Sharjah

🎓

Universities

Sections

1. Major Universities in Sharjah

Sharjah is home to several reputable universities, including:

a. American University of Sharjah (AUS)

  • Overview: AUS is one of the most prestigious universities in the UAE, offering American-style education with a strong emphasis on research and liberal arts.
  • Academic Programs:
    • Undergraduate: Engineering, Business Administration, Architecture, Design, Arts, Sciences, and International Studies.
    • Graduate: Master’s and PhD programs in Engineering, Business, and Arts.
  • Tuition Costs:
    • Undergraduate: AED 96,140–120,000 per year (varies by program).
    • Graduate: AED 5,000–6,000 per credit hour.
  • Admission Procedures:
    • Online application through the AUS portal.
    • Submission of high school transcripts, English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS), and SAT (if applicable).
    • Application fee: AED 400.
  • Scholarships:
    • Merit-based scholarships (up to 75% tuition reduction).
    • Need-based financial grants.
    • Special scholarships for academic excellence and extracurricular achievements.
  • Campus Facilities:
    • State-of-the-art labs, libraries, sports facilities, and student housing.
    • On-campus dining and recreational areas.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • AUS has a diverse student body, but students are expected to respect local customs, including modest dress codes and cultural norms.

b. University of Sharjah (UoS)

  • Overview: UoS is a leading institution in the UAE, known for its comprehensive academic programs and focus on Islamic and Arabic studies alongside modern disciplines.
  • Academic Programs:
    • Undergraduate: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Business, Law, Arts, and Islamic Studies.
    • Graduate: Master’s and PhD programs in various disciplines, including Health Sciences, Engineering, and Humanities.
  • Tuition Costs:
    • Undergraduate: AED 31,000–84,000 per year (varies by program).
    • Graduate: AED 2,000–3,000 per credit hour.
  • Admission Procedures:
    • Online application through the UoS portal.
    • Submission of high school certificates, English proficiency scores, and other program-specific requirements.
    • Application fee: AED 300.
  • Scholarships:
    • Full and partial scholarships for academic excellence.
    • Financial aid for students with demonstrated need.
    • Special grants for Emirati students.
  • Campus Facilities:
    • Modern classrooms, research centers, libraries, and sports complexes.
    • Separate housing for male and female students.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • UoS emphasizes Islamic values and traditions, and students are encouraged to participate in cultural and religious events.

c. Skyline University College

  • Overview: A private institution offering business-focused programs with an emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • Academic Programs:
    • Undergraduate: Business Administration, Information Technology, and Tourism.
    • Graduate: MBA programs in various specializations.
  • Tuition Costs:
    • Undergraduate: AED 40,000–50,000 per year.
    • Graduate: AED 45,000–55,000 for the entire program.
  • Admission Procedures:
    • Online application with submission of academic transcripts and English proficiency scores.
    • Application fee: AED 500.
  • Scholarships:
    • Merit-based scholarships for high-performing students.
    • Discounts for early registration and corporate-sponsored students.
  • Campus Facilities:
    • Business simulation labs, IT labs, and a library.
    • Sports facilities and student lounges.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Skyline promotes a multicultural environment but encourages respect for local traditions.

d. Al Qasimia University

  • Overview: A university focused on Islamic studies and Arabic language, catering to students from around the world.
  • Academic Programs:
    • Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, Sharia, and Humanities.
  • Tuition Costs:
    • Fully funded for all students, including tuition, housing, and meals.
  • Admission Procedures:
    • Online application with submission of academic records and a personal statement.
    • Proficiency in Arabic is required for most programs.
  • Scholarships:
    • All students receive full scholarships, including living expenses.
  • Campus Facilities:
    • Traditional Islamic architecture, libraries, and prayer halls.
    • On-campus housing and dining facilities.
  • Cultural Considerations:
    • Students are expected to adhere to Islamic values and practices.

2. General Admission Requirements

While specific requirements vary by university, the general admission process includes:

  • High School Diploma: Equivalent to UAE standards (attested by the Ministry of Education if obtained abroad).
  • English Proficiency: TOEFL (minimum 500–550) or IELTS (minimum 5.0–6.5), depending on the program.
  • Standardized Tests: SAT or other entrance exams may be required for certain programs.
  • Application Deadlines: Typically fall in May–July for the Fall semester and November–December for the Spring semester.

3. Scholarship Opportunities

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Offered to students with outstanding academic records.
  • Need-Based Financial Aid: Available for students with financial constraints.
  • Government Scholarships: UAE government offers scholarships for Emirati students and some international students.
  • Specialized Grants: For students excelling in sports, arts, or community service.

4. Campus Life and Facilities

  • Housing: Most universities offer on-campus housing, with separate accommodations for male and female students. Costs range from AED 10,000–25,000 per year.
  • Libraries and Labs: Equipped with modern technology and resources for research and study.
  • Sports and Recreation: Facilities for football, basketball, swimming, and other activities.
  • Dining: Cafeterias and food courts offering a variety of cuisines, including halal options.

5. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Dress Code: Modest clothing is expected on campus and in public areas.
  • Religious Practices: Prayer rooms are available on all campuses, and students are encouraged to respect Islamic practices.
  • Public Transport: Sharjah has a well-connected bus system, but many students prefer private transportation or carpooling.
  • Cost of Living: Monthly expenses (excluding tuition) range from AED 2,500–4,000, including housing, food, and transportation.

6. Tips for International Students

  • Visa Requirements: Universities typically sponsor student visas. Ensure all documents (passport, photos, admission letter) are ready for processing.
  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for all students; universities often provide health insurance plans.
  • Cultural Adaptation: Participate in orientation programs to learn about UAE culture and university life.
  • Networking: Join student clubs and organizations to build connections and enhance your experience.

Sharjah offers a blend of high-quality education, cultural richness, and modern facilities, making it an excellent destination for higher education. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in engineering, business, or Islamic studies, the emirate provides a supportive and inclusive environment for academic and personal growth.