Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) Scholarship 2026 is currently open to international students all over the world. MBZUAI, which stands in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, provides fully financed scholarships to outstanding students, who are pursuing Master and PhD degree in Artificial Intelligence.
This scholarship includes an entire tuition, monthly allowance, accommodation and health insurance and offers students the optimum atmosphere to concentrate on research and innovation. The MBZUAI scheme is meant to equip the future generation of AI leaders who will facilitate the development of the world in technology and innovation.
Key Highlights
| Field | Details |
| Host Country | United Arab Emirates (UAE) |
| University | Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) |
| Degree Level | Master’s and PhD |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Eligibility | International Students from All Countries |
| Key Research Areas | Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Robotics, Data Science |
| Deadline | December 15, 2025 (for Fall 2026 intake) |
Detailed Description
MBZUAI Scholarship 2026 is an educational organization with a focus on providing students with a chance to study at one of the most progressive AI universities globally. MBZUAI was founded in 2019 and focuses solely on Artificial Intelligence and provides courses in Machine Learning, Computer Vision, and Natural Language Processing.
Every student who is accepted will be granted a full scholarship automatically and will study without any worries of the cost. MBZUAI has the ideal environment to be innovative, lead, and have an influence with world-class professors, state-of-the-art facilities and close connections to the rest of the global tech industries.
Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend (AED 15,500 for Master’s / AED 17,500 for PhD)
- On-campus free accommodation.
- Health insurance coverage
- UAE visa sponsorship
- Access to advanced AI labs and global research collaborations
- Connection with leading AI talent and companies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Be international students from any nation
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (for Master’s)
- Hold a Master’s degree in a related field (for PhD)
- Have a minimum CGPA of 3.2/4.0 or equivalent
- Provide English language proof (IELTS 6.5 or higher or TOEFL iBT 90 or higher)
- GRE score (optional but beneficial)
- Be motivated and interested in researching in Artificial Intelligence.
Required Documents
- Official Transcripts & Degree Certificates: Complete academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s for M.Sc. applicants; Bachelor’s and Master’s for Ph.D. applicants).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A descriptive essay (500-1,000 words) where you explain why you want to take the program, experience in AI projects, career aspirations, and fit in the program.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs):
- M.Sc. Applicants: Minimum of two (2) LORs (one preferably from a previous course instructor/advisor).
- Ph.D. Applicants: Minimum of three (3) LORs.
- Research Statement (Ph.D. only): A statement detailing your proposed research area and plan.
- English Proficiency Certificate: Valid IELTS or TOEFL score report.
- CV/Resume: The most recent resume with a focus on academic accomplishments and work experience.
- Passport Copy & Photo: A valid passport copy and recent photograph.
- GRE Scores (Optional): Submission of a GRE General score is optional but considered a plus during evaluation.
Application Process
- Go to the official MBZUAI Admissions Portal
- Create an account and fill the application online.
- Choose the degree program of your choice (Master or PhD).
- Upload all required documents.
- Review and submit your application.
- The shortlisted applicants can be interviewed.
Deadline
The Fall 2026 intake cycle has two primary deadlines for graduate students:
- Applications Open: September 1, 2025
- Priority Deadline: November 15, 2025 (Highly recommended for stronger consideration)
- Final Deadline: December 15, 2025
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted through the official MBZUAI Applicant Portal:
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is MBZUAI?
MBZUAI is the first university of Artificial Intelligence in the world, which is based in Abu Dhabi, the UAE.
2. Is the MBZUAI Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it pays the tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.
3. Do I need work experience to apply?
No, the experience in work is not necessary, but research in AI is desirable.
4. Can I apply without IELTS?
You should also demonstrate fluency in English unless your former degree was conducted in English.
5. What programs are offered?
MBZUAI is a higher education institution that provides a Master and PhD in the field of Instruction machine learning, computer vision and natural language processing.
6. When will classes start?
The academic year for 2026 begins in August 2026.
