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How To Get Into Heriot-Watt University Dubai

  • May 29, 2025
Admitix Editorial Team
How To Get Into Heriot-Watt University Dubai
Credit: Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Heriot-Watt University Dubai is the international branch campus of the renowned Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh – one of the UK’s oldest and most respected institutions.

Located in Dubai Knowledge Park, this campus brings British-quality education to the global crossroads of innovation, culture, and business.

With a strong focus on employability, industry partnerships, and future-facing programs, Heriot-Watt Dubai offers students the best of both worlds: world-class academics with the dynamic lifestyle and opportunities of the UAE.

Why Choose Heriot-Watt University Dubai?

Here’s why students from over 100 nationalities call Heriot-Watt Dubai their academic home:

FeatureDetails
Global Ranking#235 worldwide (QS 2025); Top 50 for Engineering & Technology
Student PopulationApprox. 4,000+ at Dubai campus
LocationDubai Knowledge Park, Dubai, UAE
International StudentsOver 60 nationalities on campus
Graduate EmployabilityHigh; strong links with global employers in the UAE and UK
Notable AlumniSir James Mirrlees (Nobel Laureate), Fiona Hyslop (Scottish Cabinet Minister), industry leaders across Middle East & UK

Entry Requirements for International Students at Heriot-Watt Dubai

Undergraduate Programs

RequirementDetails
Academic QualificationHigh school completion with 70%+ or equivalent (varies by program)
English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0+, TOEFL iBT 78+, or equivalent
Standardized TestsNot required
EssaysNot required
Letters of RecommendationUsually not required
ExtracurricularsNot mandatory, but leadership and initiative are valued

Graduate Programs

RequirementDetails
Academic QualificationBachelor’s degree with minimum 2:2 UK honours or equivalent
English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 90+, or equivalent
GRE/GMATNot required for most programs
Statement of PurposeRequired for select programs
Letters of RecommendationMay be required depending on the program
Work ExperienceRequired for MBA; optional for most other PG programs

Application Process to Heriot-Watt University Dubai

StepDetails
Choose Program40+ UG/PG programs in business, engineering, computing, and design
Prepare DocumentsTranscripts, passport, English test scores
Apply OnlineVia Heriot-Watt Dubai’s official admissions portal
Application FeeNone (most programs)
InterviewsMay be required for MBA or design programs
Decision DatesRolling admissions; apply early for visa processing
Visa ProcessStudent visa sponsored by the university

Required Documents Checklist

DocumentUndergraduateGraduate
Academic TranscriptsYesYes
English Test ScoresYesYes
Statement of PurposeOptionalUsually required
Letters of RecommendationOptionalSometimes required
Resume/CVOptionalUsually required for PG
Passport CopyYesYes

Key Deadlines for 2025 Entry

IntakeApplication OpensDeadline
January 2025Open nowDecember 15, 2024
September 2025January 2025August 20, 2025

Popular Courses at Heriot-Watt Dubai

ProgramDurationAnnual Tuition Fee (AED)
BSc Computer Science3–4 years~AED 63,000
BA Accounting & Finance3 years~AED 58,000
MSc Construction Project Management1 year~AED 70,000
MSc Data Science1 year~AED 75,000
MBA1–2 years~AED 105,000
PhD Programs3–5 yearsAED 125,000+ (entire program)

Scholarships & Financial Aid for International Students

Scholarship NameAmountEligibility
Merit-Based ScholarshipsUp to 50%Based on academic performance
Family & Alumni Discounts10–20%Siblings, alumni children
MBA ScholarshipsUp to 20%Based on experience and interview
Need-Based AssistanceLimitedReviewed case-by-case

You Might Also Like: Scholarships to Study in Dubai For Indian & International Students

Student Life & Support at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

FeatureDetails
HousingUniversity can assist with off-campus accommodation
Work While StudyingLimited part-time opportunities with student visa
Career ServicesCareer fairs, CV clinics, employer networking
Student Organizations30+ clubs: tech, business, cultural, sports
Health ServicesOn-campus clinic and wellness workshops
International SupportVisa assistance, orientation, pastoral care

Ready to Join Heriot-Watt Dubai?

Offering UK degrees in a global city, Heriot-Watt Dubai empowers students with future-ready skills, top-tier faculty, and a direct pipeline to international industries.

Apply today and step into a global career path with Admitix by your side.

FAQs – Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Is Heriot-Watt Dubai a real UK degree?
Yes. All degrees are awarded by Heriot-Watt University (UK) and are identical to those issued in the UK.

Is it easy to get in?
It’s moderately selective. Strong academic performance and English skills are key.

Can I transfer to the UK or other campuses?
Yes, internal transfers between campuses (Dubai, Edinburgh, Malaysia) are possible.

Is it expensive?
Tuition is lower than many UK/US universities, with scholarship support available.

Can I work while studying?
Limited part-time work is possible with university approval. Graduate students may also explore internships.