Qatar Scholarships 2025

Studying in Qatar can open doors to world-class education, global opportunities, and exceptional career growth. Whether you’re an international student or a Qatari national, Qatar offers several fully funded and partially funded scholarships in 2025.

This complete guide explains the types of scholarships, eligibility criteria, application process, scholarship lists, and tips to improve your chances—all in one place.

Why Study in Qatar?

Qatar is quickly becoming one of the top education destinations in the Middle East, thanks to its world-class universities, government support, and scholarship opportunities.

1. Top Universities in Qatar

Qatar is home to some of the region’s most prestigious universities:

• Qatar University (QU) – The country’s largest public university, known for its academic excellence and strong scholarship programs.

• Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) – A Qatar Foundation university focused on research, innovation, and technology.

• Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) – Offers U.S.-accredited degrees in business, computer science, and information systems.

• Georgetown University Qatar – Specializes in international relations and global affairs.

• Texas A&M University Qatar – Renowned for its engineering programs.

• Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar – Offers world-class medical education.

2. High Education Standards

• Most programs are internationally accredited and follow global curriculums.

• Students gain access to cutting-edge research and world-class faculty.

3. Career and Job Prospects

• Qatar’s Vision 2030 prioritizes human development, making it a hub for future-ready careers.

• Graduates often find jobs in energy, healthcare, finance, aviation, and technology sectors.

4. Benefits for Scholarship Students

• Full or partial tuition coverage

• Monthly living stipends

• On-campus housing

• Paid internships and research opportunities

• Exposure to a diverse, multicultural environment

Types of Scholarships in Qatar

Qatar offers multiple funding opportunities depending on your background, degree, and field of study.

1. Qatar Government Scholarships

• Funded by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE).

• Usually covers tuition, accommodation, and living costs.

• Available for Qatari nationals and selective international students.

2. Qatar University Scholarships

Types of Qatar University Scholarships

• Merit-Based Scholarships → For students with excellent academic performance.
• International Student Grants → Specifically for non-Qatari students.
• Athletic Scholarships → For students excelling in sports.
• STEM-focused Scholarships → For science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.

3. Qatar Foundation (QF) Scholarships

• Includes opportunities at HBKU, Education City universities, and research grants.

• Benefits:

  • Full tuition coverage.

  • Research funding.

  • Access to internships at partner organizations.

4. Private University Scholarships

Universities like Carnegie Mellon Qatar, Texas A&M Qatar, and Weill Cornell Qatar offer:

• Partial and full tuition waivers.

• Need-based financial aid.

• Performance-based grants.

5. Corporate & Industry-Sponsored Scholarships

Some organizations offer specialized scholarships:

• Qatar Airways → Aviation and aeronautical engineering scholarships.

• QNB (Qatar National Bank) → Business and finance programs.

• Ooredoo → ICT and telecommunications scholarships.

Complete List of Scholarships in Qatar 2025

 

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Choose the right scholarship → Check eligibility, benefits, and deadlines.

2. Prepare required documents:

   • Passport or QID

   • Academic transcripts

   • Recommendation letters

   • Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter

3. Apply online via the official scholarship portal.

4. Prepare for interviews:

   • Research the university.

   • Be ready to explain your academic goals.

5. Track your application status regularly.

Scholarships by Degree Type

Undergraduate Scholarships

• Available for high-school graduates.

• Best options: QU Merit Scholarship, QF Undergraduate Awards.

Master’s Scholarships

• Targeted at students pursuing postgraduate studies.

• Best options: HBKU, QNRF, CMU-Q.

PhD & Research Funding

• Includes research grants, full tuition, and stipends.

• Best options: QNRF, HBKU, QU Graduate Research Fund.

Scholarships for International Students

Qatar welcomes students from India, Pakistan, Nepal, the Philippines, and Africa.

• Check international quotas early.

• Required: High GPA + English proficiency.

• Some fully funded options exist at Qatar University and QF universities.

Scholarships for Qatari Nationals

• Amiri Scholarship → Prestigious full funding.

• Qatar Foundation  → Interest-free study loans.

• Government fully funds STEM, medicine, and technology students.

Tips to Maximize Your Chances

• Apply early — deadlines are competitive.

• Write a strong Statement of Purpose linking your goals to Qatar’s vision.

• Seek multiple recommendations from teachers or employers.

• Prepare well for interviews — show leadership, motivation, and adaptability.

Living & Studying in Qatar — What Students Should Know

Qatar offers a modern lifestyle with world-class infrastructure, but the cost of living can vary depending on your university, location, and lifestyle. Here’s what you can expect:

• Accommodation Costs:

  • On-campus housing: QAR 1,500 – QAR 3,000/month (most Qatar Foundation universities provide subsidized dorms).

  • Off-campus apartments: QAR 3,000 – QAR 5,000/month for shared spaces in Doha.

• Food & Dining:

  • Campus meal plans: QAR 600 – QAR 1,200/month.

  • Eating out: Mid-range restaurant meals cost around QAR 25 – QAR 50.

• Transport:

  • Metro rides cost QAR 2 – QAR 6 per trip; monthly passes start at QAR 100.

• Utilities & Internet:

  • Utilities range from QAR 250 – QAR 400/month; high-speed internet starts around QAR 250/month.

Part-Time Work Opportunities for Students in Qatar

Unlike some countries, Qatar restricts part-time work for international students, but there are exceptions:

• On-Campus Jobs:
  Many universities within Education City and Qatar University offer research assistantships, teaching assistant roles, and student ambassador jobs.

  • Pay range: QAR 40 – QAR 75/hour.

• Internships:
  Certain Qatar Foundation programs allow paid internships during summer or winter breaks, especially in engineering, IT, and business.

• Corporate Sponsorships:
  Large companies like Qatar Airways, QNB, Ooredoo, and Qatar Petroleum sometimes sponsor students with a stipend in exchange for future work commitments.

Cultural Experience & Safety Tips for Students

Studying in Qatar offers a unique blend of Middle Eastern culture and modern innovation. The country welcomes thousands of international students annually and provides a safe, diverse, and inclusive environment.

• Cultural Insights:

  • Dress modestly in public; casual wear is fine on campus.

  • Alcohol is restricted; check campus guidelines for permissible venues.

  • Fridays are considered a rest day, and many businesses close until afternoon.

• Safety:

  • Qatar ranks among the safest countries globally with extremely low crime rates.

  • Emergency number: 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services.

• Student Life & Community:

  • Join student clubs, cultural societies, and international communities for networking.

  • Major annual events include Doha International Book Fair, National Sports Day, and Education City Career Fair.

FAQs About Qatar Scholarships 2025

1. Is Qatar offering fully funded scholarships in 2025?
   Yes — several institutions, including QF universities and Qatar University, offer full tuition and living stipend scholarships for high-achieving applicants.

2. What are the top scholarships available for Indian students in Qatar?
   The key scholarships include Qatar University’s International Grant, Qatar Foundation Undergraduate Scholarships, and partial funding at CMU Qatar and Texas A&M Qatar.

3. How do I apply for Qatar University scholarships?
   Visit the Qatar University admissions portal, complete the online application form, upload required documents (transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose), and submit before the January deadline.

4. Are there scholarship opportunities for Qatari nationals?
   Yes — Qatari nationals are eligible for government-funded programs like the Amiri Scholarship and Qatar Foundation grants, often covering tuition, accommodation, and stipends.

5. Does Qatar Foundation offer scholarships for international students?
   Yes — Qatar Foundation provides full and partial scholarships at institutions like HBKU, CMU-Q, and Georgetown University Qatar, including research fellowships.

6. What documents are needed for scholarship applications?
   Typically required documents include a copy of passport/ID, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency, and a passport photo.

7. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL for Qatar scholarships?
   English proficiency tests are often required, but some universities accept alternate proofs, such as prior education in English or university-specific assessments.

8. Are PhD scholarships available in Qatar?
   Yes — doctoral candidates can apply for funding through QNRF, HBKU, and Qatar University’s graduate scholarship programs.

9. Is applying early important for Qatar scholarships?
   Absolutely — many programs close in February–April. Applying early increases your chances of acceptance and securing funding.

10. How competitive are Qatar scholarship programs?
    Very competitive. You’ll need strong academic records, compelling essays, letters of recommendation, and sometimes interview performance to stand out.

11. Can I work part-time while on a Qatar scholarship?
    Part-time work is heavily restricted for sponsored students. It’s best to rely on scholarship funding and seek internships arranged by the university.

12. Are there scholarships for medical and health sciences programs?
    Yes — programs like Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar and QU often offer partial or full scholarships for students pursuing medical and health sciences degrees.

13. What is the Amiri Scholarship and who is eligible?
    The Amiri Scholarship is a prestigious program funded by the government, targeting exceptionally qualified Qatari nationals. It covers full education, housing, and includes leadership development components.

14. Do private companies in Qatar offer scholarships?
    Yes — companies like Qatar Airways, QNB, and Ooredoo offer scholarships in aviation, business, finance, and ICT, often with internship and employment links.

15. What is the Career-related Programme (CP) scholarship?
    The CP is an IB pathway that combines IB coursework with vocational qualifications. Some Qatar schools offer scholarships for students pursuing CP in fields like technology and engineering.

16. Are there scholarships for short executive education or diploma programs?
    Yes — limited scholarships are available for mid-career professionals seeking short courses in leadership, business, or technology through institutions like QF or local training centers.

17. How do I track the status of my scholarship application?
    Most institutions have online portals where you can log in to view your application status. Make sure to check regularly and respond promptly to any requests.

18. Can I defer my scholarship to the next semester or year?
    Deferment policies vary by institution — some allow one-time deferrals for valid reasons; check with the scholarship office directly.

19. What should I write in my scholarship essay to improve my chances?
    Highlight academic achievements, your commitment to contributing to Qatar’s Vision 2030, leadership examples, and how the scholarship will enable you to achieve your goals.

20. Where can I find help or feedback on my scholarship application?
    Many universities offer workshops, sample essays, writing labs, or counselor services. Online communities and expat forums can also provide insights and peer review.