How the Emirati education system works
Overview
Federal universities, private Emirati universities and international branch campuses coexist. Look for licensing by the UAE's Commission for Academic Accreditation or, in Dubai free zones, KHDA.
Levels and how long they take
| Level | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 1 year | Common route for students below direct-entry English or maths levels. |
| Bachelor's | 3 to 4 years | 3 years on UK-model campuses, 4 on US-model. |
| Master's | 1 to 2 years | MBA programmes are popular with working students. |
| PhD | 3 to 5 years | Growing but limited compared with other destinations. |
Grading
Follows the home campus system: UK classifications or US GPA.
Intakes
| Intake | Notes |
|---|---|
| September | Main intake. |
| January | Second intake at most branch campuses. |
| May | Some business and IT programmes. |
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
Get this checked for your case
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Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Is a degree from a Dubai branch campus the same as the UK one?
Yes for the universities we work with: the certificate is issued by the home university and does not mention the campus. Check that the programme is licensed by KHDA or CAA.
Can students work part time in the UAE?
Yes, with a part-time work permit, usually within free zones and for up to 15 to 20 hours a week. Many students take internships and campus roles.
Do I need IELTS for the UAE?
Most universities ask for IELTS 5.5 to 6.5 or an equivalent, with foundation routes for lower scores.