The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has opened applications for its Graduate Scholarship 2027, offering opportunities for international students, including Pakistanis, to study Artificial Intelligence in the UAE.
The scholarship covers Master’s and PhD programs in AI-related fields at MBZUAI’s Abu Dhabi campus.
Under the funding structure, PhD students receive university support during their first year while they complete the faculty advisor matching process. The funding then moves to the faculty advisor from the beginning of the second year, subject to a confirmed advisor match and satisfactory academic progress.
For Master’s students, funding is not automatically included with admission. Applicants need to secure available options such as merit-based funding, faculty-sponsored research or teaching assistantships, or approved UAE government scholarships for eligible candidates.
Interested students can submit their applications for the MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship 2027 until December 15, 2026. The fall semester for the 2027 intake is scheduled to begin in August 2027.
Scholarship Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship 2027 |
| Institution | Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence |
| Country | UAE |
| Study Levels | Master’s and PhD |
| Field | Artificial Intelligence |
| Program Start | August 2027 |
| Deadline | December 15, 2026 |
| Eligible Applicants | International students, including Pakistanis |
| English Requirement | IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 90, PTE 60, Duolingo 120 |
MBZUAI Scholarship for PhD Students
PhD students receive university funding during their first year of study while they complete the faculty advisor matching process.
After the first year, funding transfers to the faculty advisor no later than the beginning of the second year.
Students can continue receiving financial support after securing an advisor match and maintaining satisfactory academic progress throughout their doctoral studies.
MBZUAI Scholarship for Master’s Students
Master’s students do not automatically receive funding under the MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship.
Students remain responsible for fees unless they secure other financial support, including merit-based funding, faculty-sponsored research or teaching assistantships, or approved UAE government scholarships for UAE nationals.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet MBZUAI’s graduate admission requirements and hold a relevant STEM degree from an accredited institution.
Candidates should demonstrate strong academic performance, technical preparation, and research potential.
The required CGPA generally ranges between 3.0 and 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, depending on the selected program.
Applicants should also show clear alignment between their academic background, research interests, and chosen AI program.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must have a relevant academic qualification for their selected graduate program.
MBZUAI considers academic records, technical skills, research experience, and the applicant’s potential for advanced AI research during the evaluation process.
Students should review the specific requirements of their chosen program before applying.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Curriculum vitae (CV).
- Statement of purpose.
- Research statement.
- Referee recommendations.
- English language test results.
- Other supporting documents required by MBZUAI.
English Language Requirements
Applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency as part of the admission process.
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 90 |
| PTE Academic | 60 |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | 180 |
| Cambridge C2 Proficiency | 200 |
Opportunities for AI Students
The MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship provides students with an opportunity to study Artificial Intelligence at a specialised AI university in Abu Dhabi.
PhD scholars can work with faculty members through the advisor matching process and continue research in advanced AI areas.
The program helps students develop research skills and technical knowledge for careers in AI research, academia, and technology fields.
How to Apply for MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship 2027
Applicants should select their preferred AI graduate program and submit an online application with the required documents.
Candidates should complete the screening process and meet all admission requirements before the final selection.
Students should review the latest admission guidelines before submitting their applications for the 2027 intake.
Find out more details about the MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (PhD) and MBZUAI Graduate Scholarship (Master’s)
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