UAE University Application Deadlines
Application dates for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) universities that students from India and Pakistan often choose.
Application Timeline
BITS Pilani Dubai: August 2026 start
The last date for the August 2026 start was 18 August 2026.
American University of Sharjah (AUS): Spring 2027 applications
Spring 2027 applications close on 24 December 2026. Classes start on 11 January 2027.
AUS: Fall 2027, Period One (first application round)
Finish your AUS application by 7 January 2027. You get an answer between 11 and 28 January 2027.
Key Deadlines
NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD): Early Decision I
1 November
BITS Pilani Dubai: January 2027 start
15 December 2026
Each university has its own rounds and dates. Some decide on fixed dates, others accept late applications if seats are left.
- Most universities have an autumn start (August or September) and a January start.
- AUS has Spring, Summer and Fall starts.
- Khalifa University has no undergraduate intake for Spring 2027.
Application periods (AUS)
AUS reads applications in groups called periods and gives answers on fixed dates. It does not answer one by one.
Rounds (NYUAD)
At NYUAD, you pick Early Decision I, Early Decision II or Regular Decision. Your pick applies to all New York University campuses you apply to.
Late applications (BITS Pilani Dubai)
BITS Pilani Dubai considers late applications if seats are available.
For Students From India and Pakistan
Before the deadline
- Check each university's marks rule for your board.
- Book an English test (IELTS or TOEFL) if the university asks for one.
After your offer
- Get your certificates stamped as real at home and with the UAE Embassy. See the steps for your country below.
- Pay the deposit (money you pay first to keep your place) by the date in your offer.
Before classes
- Send your visa papers.
- Apply for your Certificate of Equivalency.
Start Your Attestation Early
The two main starts and their dates.
Application Deadlines
Key Advantages
- A second chance if you miss the autumn start.
- Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers a January start for its BSc (Bachelor of Science) Computer Science.
Important Notes
BITS Pilani Dubai classes begin on 25 January 2027. AUS Spring 2027 classes start on 11 January 2027.
Application Deadlines
Key Advantages
- Most programmes start in the autumn.
- Scholarships for good marks are often given when you are accepted.
Important Notes
AUS Fall 2027 classes start on 23 August 2027. BITS Pilani Dubai September 2027 applications open on 15 February 2027.
When Decisions Come
| Application Type | Typical Application Deadline | Decision Released | Student Reply Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUS Fall 2027, Period One | 7 January 2027 | 11 to 28 January 2027 | Pay the seat deposit by the date in your offer |
| AUS Fall 2027, Period Two | 18 March 2027 | 22 March to 8 April 2027 | Pay the seat deposit by the date in your offer |
| AUS Fall 2027, Period Three | 20 May 2027 | 2 May to 3 June 2027 | Pay the seat deposit by the date in your offer |
| NYUAD Early Decision I | 1 November | 15 December | - |
| NYUAD Early Decision II | 1 January | 15 February | - |
| NYUAD Regular Decision | 5 January | 1 April | - |
Dates differ by university. If you apply to AUS late (21 May to 24 June 2027), you get an answer by 15 July 2027.
Each university's own dates.
Deadlines by University Tier
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Typical Deadlines
- • Spring 2027 24 December 2026
- • Fall 2027, Period Three 20 May 2027
Key Characteristics
- • Fixed application periods.
- • Seat deposit to confirm your place.
Decisions are released only on the published dates.
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus (BPDC)
Typical Deadlines
- • January 2027 start 15 December 2026
Key Characteristics
- • Apply online.
- • BITSAT (the BITS entrance test) is not needed for the Dubai campus.
Late applications are considered if seats are left.
New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)
Typical Deadlines
- • Early Decision I 1 November
- • Regular Decision 5 January
Key Characteristics
- • NYU does not require test scores through the 2027-2028 application cycle.
- • Choose one round for all NYU campuses.
You apply through the Common Application (one online form that many universities accept).
To find the most accurate and up-to-date deadlines for your target universities and programs:
University admissions page
Each university has its own dates on its website. They can change.
Work back from your start date.
Time Management Strategy
Application Checklist
Before applications open
- Choose your universities.
- Check the marks rule for your board.
Before the deadline
- Take an English test if the university asks for one.
- Ask teachers for recommendation letters where needed.
After your offer
- Pay the deposit.
- Start attestation and visa papers.
Strategic Application Tips
AUS Period One ends on 7 January 2027 for Fall 2027. You get an answer sooner.
Good Habits
Do:
- Apply early in the round.
- Keep copies of every paper.
Don't:
- Do not wait for your final marks. Some universities accept predicted grades (the marks your school thinks you will get).
Scholarship, equivalency and visa dates also matter.
Some scholarships have their own dates.
Key Financial Deadlines
| Type | Typical Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AUS President's Scholarship (Fall 2027) | 1 April 2027 | The form opens in December 2026. |
| AUS financial grant (money help, Spring 2027) | 10 December 2026 | For students who were just accepted. |
Scholarship Deadlines
Plan the visa after your offer.
Student Visa Timeline
Accept your offer
By the offer deadlinePay your deposit.
Send your visa papers
At least two months before you arrive (AUS)Send your papers to the university. It then applies for your entry permit (the paper that lets you enter the UAE to study).
Leave Time for the Visa
Other Deadlines
Certificate of Equivalency
Important: Dates change each year. Check your university's page before you apply.
For India and Pakistan
Tips for Students From India and Pakistan
Document Preparation
- Attest your certificates before you leave home.
- Ask your school for a predicted grades letter if your final marks are not out. Khalifa University accepts one.
Communication Strategy
- Use one email address for all applications.
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