Discover Exciting Job Opportunities for Study Abroad Graduates with the Ministry of Higher Education

The UAE's Ministry of Higher Education is updating its scholarship program to guarantee job placement for students after graduation. Every scholarship now comes with a guaranteed employment opportunity through partner organizations, but students who break their work agreements could face hefty repayment demands and educational restrictions.

The ministry announced that scholarship recipients must complete practical training during their studies and commit to working with designated employers after graduation. Students who fail to meet employment requirements after completing their degrees may have to pay back the full cost of their scholarship. The ministry can also impose educational restrictions on students who breach their agreements.

Here's how the new system works: each scholarship guarantees a job with partner employers after graduation, based on signed agreements and meeting all specified criteria. Partner organizations can also nominate students for scholarships according to their agreements with the ministry.

The ministry created a special track for students accepted to universities ranked in the top 20 globally, or top 20 in specific fields. These students get more flexibility in choosing employers after graduation, recognizing the premium value of elite education in the job market.

Registration for the spring 2026 scholarship program for UAE citizens remains open until November 7. Students with conditional university acceptance can apply using their conditional offers, but they must include all academic requirements and standardized test conditions. Final scholarship approval won't happen until students provide an unconditional, updated acceptance letter.

Current students already enrolled in higher education institutions inside or outside the UAE can apply for scholarships. They need to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and provide an approved credit transfer evaluation from their target university.

The ministry prioritized four key sectors for scholarships: energy, transport and logistics, technology and engineering, healthcare, and finance. Medical and health program applicants need unconditional final acceptance in specialized programs that don't require a foundation year. They also must attend interviews with partner organizations and relevant healthcare institutions as part of the final selection process.

University and program selection follows specific criteria including global academic rankings, program quality, and alignment with job market needs. The ministry also considers existing partnerships with employers to ensure the best career opportunities for graduates.

Applications through the ministry's website are free. Scholarships only cover full-time study programs, not part-time options. Benefits include full tuition coverage plus monthly stipends to help with basic living expenses. Students must pay university admission fees and seat reservations at their chosen institutions abroad. Any major changes require prior approval from the ministry and work partners.

The program currently serves UAE citizens only. Applicants must pass all requirements for their chosen degree level and gain academic acceptance to universities and majors on the ministry's approved lists. They also need to pass personal interviews and competency tests, commit to full-time on-campus study abroad, and provide national service certificates (males only). Students can't hold other full scholarships from any institution and can't have received scholarships for the same degree level previously.