Top Universities to Study in Sharjah for International Students

Sharjah, one of the cultural capitals of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has quickly become a popular study destination for international students. Known for its blend of tradition and modernity, Sharjah provides students with world-class education, affordable tuition, and a safe, multicultural environment.

With its strategic location near Dubai, students in Sharjah enjoy global exposure and career opportunities in diverse fields such as engineering, business, medicine, arts, and Islamic studies.

Why Study in Sharjah?

• 🎓 Reputed Universities – Home to globally recognized institutions like University of Sharjah and American University of Sharjah (AUS).
• 🌍 Multicultural Student Community – Thousands of students from over 100+ countries study in Sharjah.
• 💼 Career Opportunities – Located near Dubai’s business hub, offering internships and job prospects.
• 💰 Affordable Tuition Fees – Lower compared to the USA, UK, or Canada.
• 🏛️ Rich Culture & Heritage – A hub of arts, history, and Islamic culture.
• ✈️ Connectivity – Close to Dubai International Airport, offering access to global destinations.

Top Universities in Sharjah for International Students

Here’s a comparison table of the best universities in Sharjah:

Detailed Overview of Top Universities in Sharjah

1. University of Sharjah (UoS)

• Established in 1997, UoS is one of the largest and most diverse universities in UAE.
• Offers programs in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Business, Islamic Studies, Arts, and Law.
• Strong emphasis on research and international collaborations.
• Popular among international students for its medical and engineering programs.

2. American University of Sharjah (AUS)

• Founded in 1997, AUS follows the American education system.
• Ranked among the top universities in the Arab region.
• Well-known for Architecture, Engineering, Business, and Arts.
• Strong research facilities and exchange programs with global universities.

3. Skyline University College

• Established in 1990, one of the oldest private universities in Sharjah.
• Specializes in Business Administration, IT, Aviation, and Tourism Management.
• Industry-focused education with practical learning opportunities.
• Affordable compared to AUS and UoS.

4. Al Qasimia University

• Established in 2014, with a focus on Islamic Studies and Arabic language programs.
• Offers scholarships and grants for outstanding international students.
• Strong emphasis on cultural and religious education.
• Popular for students seeking Islamic knowledge combined with modern education.

5. Sharjah Institute of Science and Technology

• Provides programs in Applied Sciences, Engineering, and Technology.
• Known for hands-on, practical education.
• Focus on preparing students for technical careers in UAE’s growing industries.

6. Westford University College

• Offers Business, MBA, and Management programs with flexible study options.
• Recognized by multiple international accreditation bodies.
• Affordable tuition fees and strong career support services.
• Ideal for students pursuing international MBA programs in Sharjah.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Undergraduate Programs

• High school certificate or equivalent.
• English proficiency test (IELTS 5.5–6.5 / TOEFL / PTE).
• Academic transcripts.
• Passport copy and student visa requirements.

Postgraduate Programs

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field.
• Competitive GPA.
• English proficiency test scores.
• Some programs (MBA/Medicine) may require work experience or entrance exams.

Scholarships for International Students in Sharjah

• University of Sharjah Scholarships – Merit and need-based.
• AUS Merit Scholarships – Covers partial tuition waivers.
• Al Qasimia University Grants – Full or partial funding for international students in Islamic Studies.
• Skyline University Scholarships – Discounts for high-achieving students.

Cost of Living in Sharjah for International Students

• Accommodation: $3,000 – $6,000 per year (on-campus cheaper).
• Food: $200 – $400/month.
• Transport: $100 – $200/month.
• Health Insurance: $300 – $500/year.
• Total Living Cost: $700 – $1,200/month.

👉 Sharjah is more affordable than Dubai or Abu Dhabi, making it a student-friendly city.

Benefits of Studying in Sharjah

✅ Globally recognized universities with strong academic programs.
✅ Affordable compared to other study destinations like USA or UK.
✅ Safe, multicultural, and welcoming environment.
✅ Scholarships available for international students.
✅ Strategic location near Dubai for career opportunities.
✅ Blend of modern education with cultural richness.

FAQs – Studying in Sharjah

Q1. Is Sharjah a good destination for international students?
👉 Yes, Sharjah is one of the most student-friendly cities in UAE with affordable education and rich cultural exposure.

Q2. What is the average tuition fee in Sharjah universities?
👉 Tuition fees range from $7,000 – $18,000 per year, depending on the university and program.

Q3. Can I work while studying in Sharjah?
👉 Yes, students can work part-time with a valid student visa and university approval.

Q4. Which are the best courses to study in Sharjah?
👉 Popular courses include Engineering, Business, Medicine, Islamic Studies, and Architecture.

Q5. Do universities in Sharjah offer scholarships?
👉 Yes, universities like UoS, AUS, and Al Qasimia University provide scholarships for international students.

Sharjah is emerging as one of the best study destinations in the Middle East for international students. With top-ranked universities such as the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah, along with affordable options like Skyline University and Al Qasimia University, students can choose from a wide variety of academic programs.

The city’s affordability, cultural richness, safe environment, and proximity to Dubai make it an excellent destination for students seeking both quality education and global opportunities.

👉 If you’re looking for a modern yet culturally rich study destination in the UAE, Sharjah is a perfect choice.