In a significant move to expand access to higher education, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has approved full university scholarships for students whose families earn less than AED 50,000 per month.
The decision was announced during the second meeting of the permanent executive committee of the Sharjah Higher Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research, which Sheikh Dr Sultan chaired at University City on Tuesday.
This directive aligns with His Highness’s broader push to improve governance across Sharjah’s higher education institutions. During the meeting, he emphasized the need to “correct administrative concepts” and focus on strategic planning to uplift the academic sector.
The committee also tackled admission policies to ensure programmes align with both student interests and labor market demands. A preliminary budget of AED 18 million for the remainder of the year was approved, along with a new logo and official headquarters for the council.
In terms of student support, new scholarship standards for postgraduate students have been introduced, mirroring those for undergraduates. Students registered in Sharjah and coming from households earning below the AED 50,000 monthly threshold are now eligible for full scholarships. Those with higher incomes will still receive substantial support through a 50% grant.
Existing full scholarships for the children of imams and students with disabilities will remain in place, funded by the Amiri Diwan. Universities and academies have also pledged additional discounts for exceptional students excelling in academics, sports, or research.