Universities in Qatar to Consider for Higher Education
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With well-known universities, globally recognised programmes, and multiple scholarships, Qatar combines academic excellence with an unmatched quality of life. The cost of studying in Qatar is competitive compared to many Western countries, making it an appealing destination for Indian students. Education loan for Qatar can significantly ease the financial burden, allowing students to pursue their dream degree without stress while managing tuition fees and living expenses effectively.
Universities and Colleges in Qatar - Fees & Scholarships Overview
Qatar’s higher education system offers academic opportunities through diverse institutions, ranging from public and private universities to renowned global campuses, along with scholarships that make studying in Qatar both prestigious and accessible.
Types of Institutions
| Type of Institution | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | Government-funded, offering undergraduate to doctoral programmes. | Qatar University (QU) |
| Private Universities | Independent or semi-private institutions offering modern, multidisciplinary programmes. | Lusail University, University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) |
| Branch Campuses of Global Universities | Prestigious international universities located mainly in Education City, offering the same degrees as their home campuses. | Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown University in Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar, Texas A&M University at Qatar |
| Research & Specialised Institutes | Focused on innovation, science, and sustainability, many are under the Qatar Foundation (QF). | Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), Doha Institute for Graduate Studies |
Source: https://www.edu.gov.qa/en/Content/HigherEducationinQatar
https://www.qf.org.qa/education/higher-education
Tuition Fees
- Public Universities (like Qatar University): QAR 36,000 - 60,000 per year (approx. ₹8 lakh–₹13 lakh).
- Private & International Campuses: QAR 70,000–150,000 per year (approx. ₹15 lakh–₹30 lakh).
- MBA or Engineering Master’s Programmes: Typically, QAR 80,000–120,000 yearly (₹17 lakh–₹25 lakh).
Fees depend on programme, nationality, and degree level.
Note: Tuition fees in QAR are approximate and converted to INR based on the prevailing exchange rate (1 QAR ≈ ₹22–₹23). Actual INR amounts may vary depending on the current rate, bank, or payment method at the time of transaction.
Scholarships for International Students
- Qatar University Scholarships: Admission & Academic Excellence awards for non-Qatari students.
- Hamad Bin Khalifa University Scholarships: Full tuition + monthly stipend + accommodation.
- Education City Partner Universities: Merit-based or need-based aid from institutions like Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown University in Qatar, Northwestern University in Qatar.
Always confirm coverage details (tuition, housing, stipend, travel) and application deadlines.
List of Universities in Qatar
| University | Type | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Qatar University (QU) | Public | Oldest national university; 10+ colleges |
| Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) | Research-based | Graduate-level, innovation & sustainability focus. |
| Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) | US branch | Leading in Computer Science, AI, Business. |
| Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) | US branch | Global Affairs, Politics, and Economics. |
| Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) | US branch | Journalism, Media, and Communication. |
| Texas A&M University at Qatar | US branch | Renowned for Engineering; part of Education City. |
| Lusail University | Private | Emerging multidisciplinary private university. |
| University of Doha for Science & Technology (UDST) | Public/Applied | Applied sciences, Business, and Engineering programmes. |
| Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar | US branch | Medical programmes leading to MD degrees. |
| Doha Institute for Graduate Studies | Independent | Arabic/English postgraduate studies in social sciences. |
Why Study in Qatar
- Well-known Universities: Earn globally recognised degrees from US, UK, and European institutions, without leaving the Middle East.
- Safe and Multicultural: Ranked among the safest countries globally, offering a cosmopolitan lifestyle in Doha.
- Scholarship-Friendly: Multiple fully funded scholarships and government-backed programmes.
- Career Opportunities: Strong demand in energy, finance, technology, and sustainability sectors.
- Facilities: Universities like HBKU and CMU-Q offer research labs matching US standards.
- Strategic Location: Gateway to both Asian and European job markets.
Fall Intake in Qatar – How It Works
- Primary Academic Session:
The Fall intake is the main academic session for most universities in Qatar, commencing in September or October each year.
- Programme Availability:
It offers the widest range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, with most institutions launching new academic and research activities during this period.
- Academic Year Duration:
The standard academic year runs from September to June, following a semester-based system similar to global universities.
- Application Timeline:
- Applications usually open in January or February.
- Deadlines close around June or July,depending on the university.
- Students are advised to begin preparation 8–10 months in advance for documentation, tests (like IELTS/TOEFL), and admission procedures.
- Ideal for Students:
The Fall intake is mostly suited for students seeking a comprehensive range of courses, vibrant campus environment, and research or internship opportunities, as it marks the official start of the academic year.
Spring Intake in Qatar – How It Works
- Mid-Year Admission Cycle:
The Spring intake takes place in January or February, serving as the second admission cycle for students
- Programme Availability:
Not all programmes are offered during this intake; only selected undergraduate and postgraduate courses may be available at certain universities.
- Application Timeline:
- Application deadlines generally fall in summer (June–July) or early winter (November–December).
- Since the window is shorter, it’s essential to check each university’s specific dates carefully.
- Flexibility for Students:
The Spring intake is ideal for students who missed the Fall intake or those transferring from another institution mid-year.
Source: https://www.mastersportal.com/countries/131/qatar.html
Student Cities in Qatar
| City | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Doha | Qatar’s capital and home to nearly all major universities. Modern housing, metro connectivity, and cultural life. |
| Al Rayyan (Education City) | Education hub with 9+ international campuses, research labs, and student housing. |
| Lusail | Emerging education & innovation zone; home to Lusail University. |
| Al Khor | Technical programmes and marine & environmental research opportunities. |
Source: https://visitqatar.com/intl-en/plan-your-trip/education/universities
List of Popular Courses to Study in Qatar
| Course Name | Description | Universities Offering This Course |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration & Management | Focuses on leadership, strategy, entrepreneurship, and global business operations. Offers strong placement opportunities in finance, consulting, and corporate sectors. | Qatar University, HEC Paris in Qatar, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar |
| Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence | Covers software development, machine learning, robotics, and data analytics. Qatar is investing heavily in AI research. | Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, HBKU, University of Doha for Science and Technology |
| Mechanical / Petroleum Engineering | Combines theoretical and applied engineering principles with Qatar’s leading role in the energy sector. | Texas A&M University at Qatar, Qatar University, UDST |
| International Relations & Public Policy | Prepares students for diplomacy, government, and NGO roles with a focus on the Middle East and global affairs. | Georgetown University in Qatar, HBKU, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies |
| Accounting & Finance | Trains students in financial analysis, auditing, and management accounting. High employability in Qatar’s financial institutions. | Qatar University, CMU-Q, HBKU |
| Education & Teaching | Develops educators equipped with modern pedagogy, educational leadership, and curriculum design skills. | Qatar University – College of Education, University of Doha for Science & Technology |
| Environmental Science / Sustainability | Focuses on renewable energy, environmental management, and sustainable urban development. | HBKU – College of Science & Engineering, Qatar University |
| Media & Communication Studies | Offers training in journalism, digital storytelling, and strategic communication. | Northwestern University in Qatar, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies |
| Health & Biomedical Sciences | Covers biomedicine, clinical research, and health management, aligned with Qatar’s growing healthcare sector. | Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar, HBKU, Qatar University |
| Architecture & Design | Emphasises innovation in architectural design, urban planning, and sustainable construction. | Lusail University, Qatar University, University of Doha for Science and Technology |
#Under the old tax regime. Please consult your Chartered Accountant or Tax Advisor for information specific to you.
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