Best international colleges in United Arab Emirates 2024

Higher education in the UAE is becoming increasingly popular among Russians, but when entering, difficulties often arise due to differences in the education system of our country and the UAE. The education system in the UAE is built on the model of the European one and has several stages. Children receive secondary education until the age of 16, and after graduation there is a choice: to get vocational education or move to the next stage. If there is a desire to enter a university, the student must take the A-level course, which takes 2 years, after each year of training it is mandatory to pass the exam, AS and A2-level.

Educational institutions that have an A-level program or vocational education have the status of a college - it is from this stage that foreigners most often have to start their higher education in the UAE. A properly chosen college can significantly help to adapt to the environment and prepare for admission to a university in the UAE.

Discovering Prestigious Educational Institutions for Your Child's Future

When it comes to securing a top-notch education for your child, the UAE offers a plethora of international colleges renowned for their academic excellence. Here, we delve into some of the most esteemed institutions and their unique offerings.

Jumeirah College

Jumeirah College follows the UK curriculum and welcomes foreign students from the age of 11. While a registration fee of USD 82 is applicable, it's important to note that this doesn't guarantee admission. The application process begins at least one year before the intended enrollment date.

Admission at Jumeirah College is highly competitive, considering not only academic performance but also personal qualities, abilities, and potential. Proficiency in a foreign language is a prerequisite, and tuition is paid in three installments: September, January, and April. Please note that the college doesn't provide accommodation. Additional expenses include uniforms, meals, and extracurricular activities.

Jake Wilson

Russia, the CIS and Europe Students Admission Regional Director at the National Mathematics and Science College

What subjects have been most commonly chosen in recent years?

STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) is becoming incredibly popular: it is logical, because it is the real key to the future, capable of providing you with a great job and a high salary. Biology, chemistry, computer science, physics, mathematics are consistently popular because they are basic to any STEM degree.

As a branch of a renowned British educational institution, Kent College Dubai offers programs spanning from elementary school to the International Baccalaureate. High school admissions begin at age 11.

Included in the tuition are accommodation in a full-board residence, all necessary study materials, and access to sports and entertainment services. Additional costs encompass registration fees, an acceptance deposit (30% of the annual fee), examination fees, extracurricular activities, medical insurance, and uniforms.

Dubai College proudly boasts the title of "British number one school in the world" and places a strong emphasis on nurturing each child's sporting, creative, and scientific potential. Additional fees include an acceptance deposit, non-refundable registration fees, medical insurance (USD 55), transportation (USD 572), individual music lessons (USD 629), and lunches.

Admission is based on entrance exams, which foreign students can take at their home institutions. For 12th-grade admission, applicants must provide details of their extracurricular achievements, following which the college contacts the school for a comprehensive evaluation of the child. Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential, and cognitive abilities, including the ability to express thoughts coherently, are assessed through an interview, typically conducted via phone or Skype.

ACD is a private institution affiliated with the Al-Shafar group of companies, offering a curriculum aligned with the American educational system, facilitating seamless transitions to US universities. To gain admission, applicants must provide proof of English proficiency with a TOEFL score of at least 500 (or 173 for IT) or an IELTS score of 5.0. Strong results in English and mathematics assessments, along with a personal interview, are essential. Preparatory courses are available for those looking to enhance their qualifications.

Tuition fees for each semester amount to $7,895. The college also provides accommodation options, with 1 and 2-bedroom apartments available under 24-hour security. Living costs, including internet and utilities, total $750 per month, payable for the entire semester in advance. The apartments are equipped with a kitchen, gym, dining room, pool, and sauna.

Choosing the UAE for your child's education ensures access to high-quality learning. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority, a UAE regulatory body, conducts regular inspections and assigns quality ratings to educational institutions, guaranteeing excellence in education.

Studying in the UAE provides a unique opportunity to receive high-quality education in a multinational and multicultural environment. UAE colleges boast excellent infrastructure, modern teaching methods and an emphasis on developing practical skills, preparing students for a successful career.

For English-language programs, most colleges require IELTS or TOEFL test scores. Typically, the minimum score is 6.0 or above for IELTS or 80 or above for TOEFL. However, requirements may vary depending on the specific program.

Colleges in the UAE offer a variety of study programs, including undergraduate, graduate, diploma and training programs. You can choose the program that best suits your educational goals and interests.

Yes, many colleges in the UAE actively collaborate with local and international companies to provide internships and practical experience to students. This allows students to put their knowledge into practice and create valuable professional connections.

Colleges in the UAE provide a variety of support and counseling services, including academic counseling, career counseling, medical assistance and psychological support. Students can ask for help at any time.

To remain in the UAE after graduation, students will need to obtain a work visa or continue their education at a higher level. Opportunities depend on your specialization and visa type and can be assessed according to your professional goals.

Many colleges provide hostels for international students. Typically, hostels are equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay. You may also want to consider renting off-campus housing, which may provide more options to choose from.

In the UAE, English is often used as the main language of communication. Knowledge of Arabic and French can be useful for communicating with locals and for deeper immersion in the culture of the country.

The UAE provides a rich cultural experience for students. This includes visiting museums, festivals, exhibitions and many other events. Students can also join various clubs and organizations that organize cultural and social events.

International students have the right to work full-time according to UAE regulations. This requires the appropriate visa and permission from the college. Many colleges also provide on-campus work opportunities, which is convenient for students.