In the UAE, education loans serve as an important lifeline, empowering students to pursue their academic dreams. Despite comparatively lower tuition fees, the additional expenses like accommodation, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs in a country like the UAE can strain finances. International students, especially, require a solid financial backup through educational loans. This blog aims to help you understand how education loans in the UAE work, and offers insights into available options, eligibility criteria, and essential details to guide students through the financial aspects of their educational journey.
Key Takeaways:
- UAE Banks Provide Secured and Unsecured education loans to international students.
- Some of the UAE Banks like Union National Bank fund 100% student education.
- You can even get a university education loan in the UAE while applying for any course.
- Interest rates for education loans in the UAE are not generally specified as it depends on the loan amount, eligibility criteria, and credit score.
- Study Loans in the UAE cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel fare, etc.
- Apart from university loans, UAE funds the education of international students with scholarships like Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Scholarships, Abu Dhabi Global Scholarship, Khalifa University Scholarships, Masdar Institute Undergraduate Scholarship.
Explore the various types of education loans available in the UAE
One can receive education loans in the UAE through universities and private banks. Almost all the universities in the UAE provide grants and scholarships to academically excellent or financially weak students. Let’s explore different financial aids for students in the UAE-
Education Loan from universities: International students can receive an education loan in the UAE from the finance departments of almost all the universities of UAE. Few of them can provide students with easy loans since they lack ties with banks. Universities provide financial aid programmes that not only cover your expenses but also those of your family.
Loan from private banks: Banks provide competitively priced student loans. You can use an education loan in the UAE from a private bank to pay for other costs as well, like rent, daily transportation costs, books, etc. Before submitting an application for a personal loan, students should review the requirements.
Scholarships and Grants: There are various types of scholarships available for students studying in UAE like- Government affiliated scholarship, University Scholarships and subject specific scholarships. These are granted to students who excel in academics, are active in extracurricular activities, or are financially weak.
The basic eligibility of each loan and scholarship varies depending on the university, subject, level of education,etc. However, listed below is the general eligibility for scholarships and loans collectively-
- The student should be a UAE national, or belong to the countries eligible for the particular scholarship.
- The student must be above 18 or 21 years of age.
- They should have financial proof like a bank statement if employed or a financial statement of parents/guardians.
- The student should maintain good grades, which might be mandatory, often with a minimum GPA requirement.
Eligibility Criteria To Get Education Loan In The UAE
Before applying for an education loan in the UAE, international students need to be aware of a few things. First and foremost, due to their stringent requirements, private financial institutions make it difficult or impossible for students to get unsecured education loans. In this situation, students who want to study in the UAE can apply for secured loans from government banks. These banks, however, have their own education loan criteria.
- Student must be between 21 and 65 years old
- Students need to have a strong academic record. Applications for an education loan in the UAE will be rejected if an applicant has an academic backlog.
- An education loan for a Master’s degree is co-applied for by students with solid financial backgrounds.
- For a Master’s education loan, students must have substantial collateral, or at least enough to cover their real loan obligations.
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Education Loan Providers In India To Study In The UAE
There are major banks in India which provide student loans in the UAE. The following table has the key features, like the loan amount and rate of interest. However, the loan amount also depends on the eligibility, credit score, and admission fees.
| Name of the Bank | Amount of Loan | Rate of Interest (per annum) |
| State Bank of India | Up to 1.5 crores | 10.5% |
| Allahabad Bank | 50 lakhs | 7.15% to 10.5% |
| Axis Bank | 40 lakhs | Depends on the loan amount |
| HDFC Bank | Up to 30 lakhs | 14% |
| Bank of Baroda | 1.5 crores | 8.50% to 9.15% |
List Of 10 Banks Providing Education Loans In The UAE For International Students
UAE banks offer various education loan products with different features, such as loan amounts, interest rates, and eligibility criteria. We have given below the top 10 banks providing education loans in the UAE and their loan upper limit in the table-
| Bank Name | Loan Amount |
| Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank | Up to AED 250, 000 |
| Union National Bank | 100% loan coverage |
| Dubai Islamic Bank | Up to AED 4 million |
| National Bank Abu Dhabi | Up to 1.5 Cr. |
| Sharjah Islamic Bank | May vary based on applicant’s profile |
| Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank | AED 10,000-AED 150,000 |
| HSBC | Up to AED 150,000 |
| Emirates NBD | May vary based on the applicant’s profile and credit score |
| Rak Bank | AED 300,000 |
| Barclays | Provides an overdraft facility of AED 1500 for students. |
Education loan interest rates in the UAE depend on your loan amount and the university you are going to take admission in. Hence, education loan interest rates are not directly specified by the UAE banks.
Secured or Unsecured Education Loans For UAE
Both secured and unsecured education loans are available in the UAE, and the choice between them depends on various factors such as your financial situation, credit history, and the terms offered by the lending institution. Here’s a brief overview of both types:
Secured Education Loans In UAE:
Collateral: Secured loans require collateral, which is an asset that you pledge to the lender in case you fail to repay the loan. Common types of collateral include property, vehicles, or other valuable assets.
Interest Rates: Secured loans often come with lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans because the lender has the security of the collateral.
Eligibility: These loans may be easier to qualify for, especially if you have valuable assets to offer as collateral.
Unsecured Education Loans In UAE:
No Collateral: Unsecured loans do not require collateral. Instead, the lender relies on your creditworthiness and income to determine your eligibility.
Interest Rates: Interest rates for unsecured loans are generally higher compared to secured loans. Lenders charge higher rates to compensate for the increased risk they take by not having collateral.
Eligibility: Qualifying for unsecured loans may be more challenging, as lenders assess your credit score and financial stability more closely.
The collateral security required to take education loans in the UAE may vary depending on the bank or financial institution. Some banks may require collateral or assets equivalent to the loan amount, while others may offer unsecured loans without collateral requirements for example, Emirates NBD is one of those banks offering unsecured education loans in UAE. On the other hand, some banks may require a security cheque equivalent to 120% of the loan amount as collateral.
Documents for Student Finance in the UAE (Secured & Unsecured)
- A copy of a valid passport.
- Valid residence visa.
- A recent three- to six-month bank statement from a student’s or parent’s account.
- A valid copy of the University ID card.
- Salary certificate in original
- Trade licence (for self-employed individuals)
- A security cheque with 120% of the loan amount
Application Process for Securing an Education Loan in the UAE
The specific application process may vary depending on the bank or financial institution. Some banks may require additional documents or have different eligibility criteria. It is advisable to directly contact the bank or visit their official website for the most accurate information. Given below are the general guidelines for secured and unsecured education loan application process-
Securing student finance in the UAE typically involves these steps:
- Research and compare education loan options from different banks and financial institutions in the UAE.
- Check the eligibility criteria and required documents for the selected education loan option.
- Gather the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, valid residence visa, bank account statements, and salary certificate.
- Submit the application form and required documents to the bank or financial institution.
- Wait for the bank’s approval and disbursement of the loan amount.
Expenses Covered Under An Education Loan In UAE
Each lender may have its own specific process, and covers different expenses under their education loan scheme, so it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by the chosen institution. You must consider seeking advice from financial advisors to ensure you make informed decisions regarding your education loan. We have mentioned below some commonly covered expenses under the student loan UAE-
- Tuition fees
- Cost of living, including accommodation, food, and transportation
- Exam and study-related costs
- Air travel tickets
- Health insurance
UAE Scholarships For International Students:
Education loans can help you immensely in your study abroad journey, but a scholarship can add to your portfolio and help you with additional funds without expecting any return money. The UAE provides some scholarships for international students. We have listed them in the following table.
| Scholarship | Offered by | Eligibility | Benefits |
| Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Scholarships | Dubai International Scholarship Programme (DISP) | Open to outstanding international students for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs in various fields | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and travel allowance |
| Abu Dhabi Global Scholarship | Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) | High-achieving international students for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and travel allowance |
| Khalifa University Scholarships | Khalifa University of Science and Technology | Exceptional international students for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs in STEM fields | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and research facilities allowance |
| Masdar Institute Undergraduate Scholarship | Masdar Institute of Science and Technology | Top international students for undergraduate programs in engineering and science related to sustainability | Full tuition fees, living allowance, laptop, health insurance, research facilities allowance, and travel allowance |
| Zayed University Undergraduate Merit Scholarship | Zayed University | High-achieving international students for undergraduate programs in various fields | Partial tuition fee waiver and renewable annually based on academic performance |
Why Choose UniCreds For Education Loans In The UAE?
Choosing the right lender for your education loan in the UAE can be overwhelming. While UniCreds isn’t a bank itself, it can be a helpful resource in facilitating the process. Here are some reasons why students might choose UniCreds for their education loans in the UAE:
- UniCreds has partnered with top financial institutions in India to give you the best deal on your education loans
- You can get education loans at lower processing fees
- Faster loan approvals for a speedy education financing experience
Conclusion
The process of applying for an education loan in the UAE is simpler with just a few requirements. The application process for student loans in the UAE will differ depending on whether you are applying for a student loan through a bank or a university.
FAQs:
Q1) What credit score is needed for a student loan in UAE?
Ans: A credit score of 700 or above is generally considered good, and it increases your chances of being approved for a student loan with favourable terms. However, it’s important to note that the specific credit score requirements can vary among different banks and financial institutions.
Q2) Can I get a study loan in the UAE?
Ans: Yes, students can get study loans in the UAE from various banks and financial institutions. The application process and eligibility criteria may vary depending on the bank or financial institution.
Q3) What kind of education is funded in the UAE?
Ans: Education loans in the UAE are designed to cover various education-related expenses, including tuition fees, cost of living, exam and study-related costs, air travel tickets, and health insurance.
Q4) Is it easy to get an education loan in UAE?
Ans: The ease of getting an education loan in the UAE may vary depending on the bank or financial institution. Generally, a good credit score, stable income, and other eligibility criteria are required to qualify for an education loan.
Q5) What is the maximum loan amount available for education in the UAE?
Ans: The maximum loan amount available for education in the UAE may vary depending on the bank or financial institution. Generally, the loan amount may range from AED 10,000 to AED 500,000, depending on the applicant’s eligibility criteria and the bank’s policies.
Q6) Are there any scholarships or grants available in conjunction with education loans in the UAE?
Ans: Some banks in the UAE may offer scholarships or grants in conjunction with education loans. It is advisable to directly contact the bank or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on scholarships or grants available in conjunction with education loans in the UAE.
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