Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Higher Education Grant scholarships launched

Support for gifted graduates to help them continue their studies has been announced.

The fifth round of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan Higher Education Grant was launched on Wednesday.

The five-year programme was established in May 2011 by the Emirates Foundation for Youth Development and aims to further the UAE’s efforts in shaping a knowledge-based economy.

The scheme awards scholarships for master’s or doctoral degrees to applicants wishing to further their studies in areas vital to the country’s growth, including education, social studies, tourism and science.

“The scholarships awarded in previous years experienced a great success,” said Mohanna Al Muhairi, chief operating officer at the foundation.

“We received tremendous feedback from students studying across the UAE and abroad on the learning and confidence they have gained from the selective programmes offered, as well as on the support that they receive through the Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Higher Education Grant.

“This programme attracts the very best people to become the future leaders in the country.”

Dr Mohsen Onsy, associate provost and chief academic officer at Zayed University, said: “Scholarships are awarded to academically exceptional students.

“Their maturity and growth is reflected in their statement of purpose and through their participation in extracurricular community or university activities.”

The grants cover tuition fees for students at selected universities in the UAE and support for travel and living allowances for those studying abroad.

Students must apply to a university for an advanced degree programme starting next year to be eligible.

A minimum grade points average of 3.0 and a bachelor’s degree from Zayed University is required.

Students must hold an International English Language Testing System score of 6.0 or equivalent.

Applications can be made at the Emirates Foundation website –www.emiratesfoundation.ae – until January 7. Candidates must be older than 21.