New framework: UAE unveils fresh scholarship rules, eligibility explained

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- The UAE has introduced new scholarship rules for Emirati students, changing eligibility requirements for universities, destination countries and priority fields of study

- Children of martyrs, social support beneficiaries and students from remote areas will receive priority consideration

- The new framework prioritises fields including technology, engineering, healthcare, energy, finance and environmental studies

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced sweeping new rules governing government scholarships for Emirati students, including changes to eligible universities, countries and priority courses.

According to Gulf News, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced Ministerial Resolution No. 179 of 2026 on Tuesday, establishing updated conditions and procedures for the national scholarship programme.

The new framework is designed to improve the quality of scholarship outcomes while ensuring government-funded opportunities support the UAE's economic priorities and future labour market needs.

Who will get priority scholarships in UAE?

The resolution identifies specific groups that will receive priority consideration during the scholarship selection process.

They include children of martyrs, beneficiaries of social support programmes and students living in remote areas.

However, applicants from these groups will still be assessed against the ministry's academic requirements and other selection criteria.

The ministry said the approach is intended to ensure scholarships reach qualified national talent while giving consideration to students facing particular circumstances.

Academic performance, the chosen field of study, the quality of the institution and the type of admission will all influence the selection process.

Which universities will qualify?

The UAE has also revised the criteria used to determine which foreign universities and institutions are eligible for government scholarships.

Under the new framework, institutions will be assessed using recognised international rankings, with requirements varying according to the country where the institution is located.

Universities ranked among the world's top 50 in a particular subject will qualify regardless of their overall ranking.

For institutions in the United States and Australia, students will generally need to attend universities ranked among the top 100 in both their overall standing and relevant subject.

Other English-speaking countries will require institutions to have both subject and overall rankings within the top 200.

For non-English-speaking countries, the threshold rises to the top 300 in both categories.

Which courses are prioritised?

The new scholarship framework places greater emphasis on academic fields considered important to the UAE's future development.

Priority areas include energy, transport and logistics, technology and engineering, healthcare, water and environmental studies, creative industries, science and finance.

The ministry said the focus is intended to develop talent capable of supporting strategic sectors and strengthening the country's knowledge-based economy.

What responsibilities will scholars have?

Students receiving government scholarships will be expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress and comply with the conditions of their sponsorship.

They will also have to disclose other scholarships or financial support they receive and promptly notify the ministry about changes that could affect their studies.

The framework provides rules covering the postponement, suspension, resumption and extension of scholarships, as well as distance-learning arrangements.

Students who breach scholarship requirements may receive warnings or face suspension or cancellation of their sponsorship, depending on the circumstances.

The ministry also plans to connect scholars with research, innovation and professional training opportunities through its education and science and technology offices abroad.

Partnerships with universities, research institutions and employers are expected to create additional opportunities for training and potential employment after graduation.

Under certain conditions, students may also take courses at another institution as part of an approved joint programme, exchange arrangement or academic partnership.

The ministry said such arrangements must provide clear academic value and contribute to students' educational outcomes and international experience.

The updated framework forms part of the UAE's wider effort to strengthen governance of its scholarship programme, improve the use of public funds and develop highly skilled Emirati talent aligned with national development priorities.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.