The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a top objective for students worldwide who are looking for quality education. The country’s higher education system, anchored by renowned universities in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, offers multiple intakes, allowing students to plan their academic journey with flexibility.
This comprehensive guide explores the different intakes in the UAE, the benefits of enrolling in each, and how MSM Unify, a trusted overseas education consultant, can help you make the right choices based on your academic and career goals. With over 1,86,000 students helped, MSM Unify offers unparalleled guidance in selecting from 50,000 programs across 21 countries, ensuring you get the best international education experience.
Universities in the UAE typically offer two primary intakes: the Fall Intake and the Spring Intake. Here’s a detailed calendar for each intake, allowing you to plan your application process effectively.
Intake | Application period | Application deadline | Commencement of classes |
Fall (main) intake | January – June | June – July | September |
Spring intake | August – November | November – December | January |
Please note: The specific intake dates and application periods may vary slightly between different universities and programs in the UAE.
Understanding the benefits of each intake will help you decide the best time to start your academic journey in the UAE.
This is the main intake in UAE universities, offering the broadest range of programs and courses. Some of the benefits include:
The spring intake is a great option for those who need more time to prepare or missed the fall intake. Key advantages include:
The choice of intake depends on various factors, such as program availability, scholarship options, and your readiness to start. Here are some key considerations:
If you’re fully prepared to start your academic journey, the fall intake offers more options and opportunities. However, if you need more time for preparation or miss the fall deadlines, the spring intake provides a second chance.
Not all programs are offered in both intakes, so check if your desired course is available in spring if you plan to opt for it.
Sometimes, personal reasons such as financial stability, visa processing, or even relocation might affect which intake you choose.
Here’s a comparison between the fall and spring intakes to help you decide the best one for your needs:
Category | Fall intake | Spring intake |
Course availability | Most programs are offered | Limited number of programs |
Scholarship availability | Higher number of scholarships | Fewer scholarships but less competition |
Class size | Larger class sizes | Smaller, more personalized classes |
Internship opportunities | More internship and job placement options | Fewer, but you can join ongoing internships |
Admission competition | Higher competition for top programs | Easier to secure admission in selective programs |
Visa processing time | May take longer due to a higher volume of applicants | Quicker processing due to fewer applicants |
The best time to apply to UAE universities depends on the intake you choose. For the fall intake, it’s advisable to start the application process between January and May. This gives you enough time to gather the necessary documents, complete admission tests, and secure funding or scholarships.
For the spring intake, starting the process between August and October is ideal, as it allows you to meet application deadlines and arrange for visa processing without rushing.
MSM Unify’s experts can guide you through each step, ensuring that you don’t miss any important deadlines or opportunities.
When applying to UAE universities, it’s essential to have a checklist of the necessary documents. Here’s a standard list:
MSM Unify provides detailed guidance on preparing these documents, helping you through the often-complicated application process.
Deadlines vary by institution and intake, but here’s a general guide:
It’s important to stay ahead of these deadlines, as missing them could delay your admission by an entire year. MSM Unify’s team helps you keep track of individual university deadlines, ensuring timely submission of all materials.
The UAE is home to several top-ranking universities offering a wide variety of courses in both intakes. Here are some of the leading universities and their intake offerings:
University | Location | Intakes offered |
American University of Sharjah | Sharjah | Fall, Spring |
University of Wollongong in Dubai | Dubai | Fall, Spring |
Khalifa University | Abu Dhabi | Fall |
Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Dubai | Fall, Spring |
Zayed University | Abu Dhabi, Dubai | Fall, Spring |
Abu Dhabi University | Abu Dhabi | Fall, Spring |
Each of these universities offers unique opportunities for international students. MSM Unify partners with many of these institutions, helping you find the best fit for your academic and career aspirations.
Studying in the UAE is a rewarding experience, offering students high-quality education, cultural diversity, and excellent career opportunities.Â
Whether you choose to enroll in the fall or spring intake, MSM Unify study abroad consultant is here to guide you through every step, from selecting the best university and program to securing your admission. With MSM Unify’s expertise and personalized support, you can confidently pursue your overseas education dreams in the UAE.
UAE Intakes: Everything You Need to Know About Studying in the UAE
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FAQs
The primary intakes are the Fall (September) and Spring (January) intakes, giving students flexibility in choosing the best time to start their studies
The fall intake typically offers more scholarships as more programs are available, and the majority of financial aid is disbursed at the start of the academic year
Yes, many universities allow students to apply for both fall and spring intakes. MSM Unify can guide you on the best time to apply based on your program and goals.
Application fees vary by institution but generally range between AED 200 to AED 500. Some universities may waive the fee for early applications.
Student visa processing typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on the university and the time of year. Spring intake applications may experience quicker processing times.
Yes, most universities offer the option to defer your admission to the next intake, either fall or spring.
Yes, while the fall intake offers more internships, students in the spring intake can join ongoing projects and internships during the year
Living expenses in the UAE range from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle
Most universities accept IELTS, TOEFL, or other equivalent English language proficiency tests
MSM Unify provides comprehensive support throughout the admission process, helping students choose the right intake, prepare documents, and track deadlines for a smooth admission experience.
MSM Unify is a student marketplace that connects students with educational institutions and recruitment partners worldwide. We unify and allow everyone in the industry to work collaboratively to reach the world’s curious learners and provide them with a host of options when it comes to their education.
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