University Options in Dubai for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Dubai offers many university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Dubai

British universities:

• University of Birmingham Dubai – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Engineering, Business, Computer Science
• Heriot-Watt University Dubai – accepts A Levels, IBDP; known for Engineering, Business, Fashion
• University of Manchester Middle East Centre – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Business and Management programmes
• Middlesex University Dubai – accepts A Levels, IBDP; wide range of programmes including Law, Media, Psychology

American universities:

• American University in Dubai (AUD) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Architecture, Business, Engineering
• Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Technology and Business focus

Australian universities:

• University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Engineering, Business, IT programmes

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses (15+ years):

• UOWD – established 1993 (over 30 years); 3,500+ students; Dubai’s oldest international branch campus
• AUD – established 1995 (over 30 years); 2,500+ students; well-established US-style university
• Heriot-Watt Dubai – established 2005 (over 20 years); 4,000+ students; largest British university branch in Dubai
• Middlesex Dubai – established 2005 (over 20 years); 3,000+ students; wide range of programmes

Recent additions:

• University of Birmingham Dubai – established 2018 (over 7 years); 1,000+ students; growing rapidly, modern campus
• RIT Dubai – established 2008 (over 17 years); 1,500+ students; strong technology focus

Note: Dubai’s international branch campuses are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 15–30+ years and have 1,000–4,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

• Zayed University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Business, Media, Education (bilingual Arabic/English)
• American University of Sharjah (AUS) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style, strong in Engineering, Architecture, Business
• University of Sharjah – accepts A Levels, IBDP; wide range of programmes

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Some universities require specific subjects for certain programmes.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels (or equivalent), with grades A-C* depending on the programme. Competitive programmes may require AAB or higher.

IBDP: Typically 24-30 points minimum, with higher points (34+) for competitive programmes. Some programmes require specific Higher Level subjects.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme).

Tuition fees for expat/international students

International branch campuses:

• British universities (Birmingham, Heriot-Watt, Middlesex): AED 50,000–80,000 per year (approximately USD 13,600–21,800). Often 30–40% lower than UK home campus fees.
• American universities (AUD, RIT): AED 80,000–120,000 per year (approximately USD 21,800–32,700). Significantly lower than US home campus fees.
• Australian universities (UOWD): AED 60,000–90,000 per year (approximately USD 16,300–24,500).

Local universities:

• Zayed University, AUS, University of Sharjah: AED 40,000–70,000 per year (approximately USD 10,900–19,100). Some offer lower fees for UAE residents.

Note: Fees vary by programme (Engineering and Medicine typically higher). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (10–50% reduction) and early payment discounts. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Dubai?

• International environment – diverse student body and faculty
• Strategic location – gateway between East and West
• Career opportunities – strong job market, especially in finance, tech, hospitality
• Quality education – many branch campuses offer same degrees as home campuses
• Cost-effective – often more affordable than studying in the UK/US/Australia

Tips for expat families

• Check accreditation – ensure the university is accredited by UAE Ministry of Education and relevant international bodies
• Visit campuses – Dubai has many options; visit to see which fits your child
• Consider career goals – Dubai’s economy favours Business, Engineering, Hospitality, Finance
• Scholarships – many universities offer merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.