The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, is the world’s first graduate-level, research-based AI university. Designed to attract global research talent, MBZUAI offers highly competitive, merit-based fully funded graduate scholarships covering tuition, housing, and stipends for Master of Science (MSc) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidates.
📊 Scholarship / Opportunity Overview
| Category | Details |
| Host Institution | Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) |
| Location | Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) |
| Study Level | Master of Science (MSc) & Doctorate (PhD) |
| Coverage Type | Fully Funded (100% Tuition Waiver + Monthly Stipend + Housing) |
| MSc Monthly Stipend | AED 15,500 per month (for funded international students) |
| PhD Monthly Stipend | AED 17,500 per month (for funded international students) |
| Eligible Target Group | Candidates of All Nationalities Worldwide |
| Application Opens | September 7, 2026 |
| Final Application Deadline | December 15, 2026 (5:00 PM GST) |
| Application Fee | AED 200 |
| Application Mode | Online via MBZUAI Graduate Admissions Portal |
📌 About the Scholarship / Opportunity
MBZUAI provides a research-driven environment focused on advanced fields of Artificial Intelligence. University- and faculty-sponsored funding models ensure that accepted research-track graduate students receive complete tuition waivers and living allowances, enabling scholars to focus entirely on scientific innovation, publications, and industry collaborations.
🏛️ Eligible Academic Programmes
Scholarships apply across MBZUAI’s specialized research-track Master’s and Doctoral degrees:
- Computer Vision (CV)
- Machine Learning (ML)
- Natural Language Processing (NLP)
- Robotics
- Computer Science / Statistical Sciences
(Note: The Master in Applied Artificial Intelligence [MAAI] is a professional, fee-based program and is not eligible for central university scholarship funding).
💰 What Does It Cover?
- 🎓 100% Tuition Waiver: Complete coverage of tuition and laboratory fees for the full program duration.
- 💵 Substantial Monthly Stipend:
- MSc: AED 15,500/month
- PhD: AED 17,500/month
- 🏠 Accommodation: On-campus student accommodation or housing assistance.
- ✈️ Travel & Flight Allowance: Annual return airfare tickets to the student’s home country.
- 🏥 Health Insurance: Full medical coverage during the study period.
- 🛂 Visa Sponsorship: UAE residence visa and Emirates ID support.
👤 Who Can Apply?
- Nationality: Open to candidates of all nationalities.
- Academic Background: Holds a STEM-related Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, etc.).
- Minimum Academic Standard: Minimum CGPA of 3.2 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).
- Research Focus: Strong technical skills, coding proficiency, and alignment with MBZUAI faculty research interests.
🇳🇬 Can Nigerians Apply?
Yes. Nigerian graduates with strong academic credentials in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or physical sciences are fully eligible to apply.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
- Undergraduate/Master’s Degree: From an accredited university recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90.
- Screening Exam & Technical Interview: Candidates must pass MBZUAI’s online technical screening exam (covering linear algebra, calculus, probability, programming, and ML fundamentals) and a faculty interview.
- GRE Score: Optional for most candidates, but recommended to strengthen applications.
📅 Important Application Deadlines (2027 Entry)
- Applications Open: September 7, 2026
- Priority Review Deadline: November 15, 2026 (5:00 PM GST)
- Final Application Deadline: December 15, 2026 (5:00 PM GST)
- Decision Notifications: Released by March 31, 2027
- Academic Intake Starts: August / September 2027
📝 How to Apply
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
Create an account on the MBZUAI Graduate Admission Portal, fill in your profile, select your research program, and pay the AED 200 application fee.
Step 2: Complete the Technical Screening Exam
Invited candidates will take an online assessment evaluating foundational mathematics, programming skills, and core computer science principles.
Step 3: Attend the Faculty Technical Interview
Shortlisted applicants participate in a virtual technical interview with MBZUAI faculty members to present past research experience and discuss technical alignment.
🔗 Official Application Link
🔗 Official Webpage: MBZUAI Graduate Admission Process- 📧 Admissions Support Email:
student.recruitment@mbzuai.ac.ae - 📅 Final Deadline: December 15, 2026 (5:00 PM GST)
Disclaimer: Scholarship availability, admission criteria, and program structures are managed directly by MBZUAI. Always confirm updated specifications on the official university port
📄 Documents to Prepare
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting technical projects, GitHub/code repositories, and publications
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) detailing career goals and AI research interests
- Research Statement / Proposal (Mandatory for PhD applicants)
- Official Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Two Recommendation Letters for MSc / Three for PhD candidates
- Valid English Test Score (IELTS / TOEFL)
- Copy of Passport & Passport Photo
⭐ Why Apply for This Opportunity?
- World-Class AI Research Hub: Access to cutting-edge computing infrastructure and top global AI faculty.
- Exceptional Financial Support: Generous tax-free monthly stipends and full tuition exemption.
- Strategic Innovation Network: Strong career integration with UAE tech initiatives, research labs, and global tech organizations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. Admitted students in eligible research-track MSc and PhD programs receive 100% tuition coverage, a monthly stipend, accommodation, flight tickets, and health insurance.
Can I apply before graduating from my current Bachelor’s degree?
Yes. Final-year students can apply with their current official transcript and an expected graduation letter from their university.
Is work experience required?
No. Fresh STEM graduates with strong academic records, coding proficiency, and clear research potential are welcomed.
💡 Important Tips for Applicants
- Submit your application prior to the November 15 Priority Deadline to increase your chances during initial cohort reviews.
- Refresh core mathematical concepts (Linear Algebra, Multivariate Calculus, Probability) and algorithms before taking the online screening exam.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic personal statement that fails to address specific MBZUAI faculty research groups.
- Uploading low-resolution or incomplete academic transcripts.
- Missing the recommendation letter submission deadlines set for referees.al.