Study Petroleum Engineering in Europe from UAE Top Universities, Costs, Careers & Eligibility
Petroleum Engineering in Europe
Every year, ambitious students from the UAE—from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Sharjah and beyond—dream of earning a world‑class engineering degree abroad. Europe, with its globally recognized universities, affordable study options, and strong industry partnerships, is a top destination. In particular, Bachelor’s degrees in Petroleum Engineering are gaining popularity thanks to specialized programs at institutions such as Montanuniversität Leoben in Austria and many other prestigious engineering schools. We are here to assist you with academic information, admission processes, financial aspects, language requirements, career prospects, and visa procedures.
Top-Ranked Universities in Europe for Petroleum Engineering
Identifying leading institutions is the first step. Multiple reputable ranking sources and industry endorsements highlight these universities:
Imperial College London (UK)
The University of Manchester (UK)
Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) (Netherlands)
Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) (Norway)
Heriot‑Watt University (UK/Scotland)
University of Stavanger (Norway)
Montanuniversität Leoben (Austria)
An official partner institution renowned for its specialized programs in petroleum and mining engineering, featuring an English-taught B.Sc. in Geoenergy Engineering.
Additional institutions such as the University of Aberdeen and Politecnico di Milano also receive strong industry endorsements and ranking recognition.Petroleum Engineering in Europe
Academic Transcripts
Proof of English Proficiency
- Imperial College London: IELTS 6.5+
- TU Delft: IELTS 6.5 for undergraduates, 7.0 for postgraduates; TOEFL scores of 90 (UG) or 100 (PG).
Personal Statement & Letters of Recommendation
Standardized Tests (if required)
Additional Subject Prerequisites
Certain courses might specify requirements (e.g., A-Levels or International Baccalaureate subjects for UK institutions).
Prospective students should check each university’s official website for the most current admission details.
Tuition Fees & Living Costs
Understanding the financial commitment is key. Here’s a comparative overview (approximate figures):
| University | Program Level | Estimated Annual Tuition Fee | Estimated Annual Living Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imperial College London | UG & PG | €47,000 (£41,000) | ~€15,000 – €20,000 |
| TU Delft | UG | ~€17,310 | ~€3,500 – €11,000 |
| PG | ~€22,290 | ~€12,000 – €15,000 | |
| University of Stavanger | UG | ~€7,000 (≈USD 17,000) | ~€10,800 |
| PG | €10,500 – €16,500 | ~€10,800 | |
| Heriot-Watt University | UG | ~€26,000 – €30,000 (≈£23,000–£26,000+) | ~€12,000 – €15,000 |
| PG | ~€34,000 (≈£30,000) | ~€12,000 – €15,000 | |
| ETH Zurich | UG & PG | ~€1,400 per semester (low tuition) | ~€20,000 – €30,000 (high living costs) |
| University of Manchester | UG & PG | €41,000 (≈£36,000) | ~€12,000 – €15,000 |
| University of Aberdeen | UG & PG | €23,000 – €29,000 (≈£20,000–£25,000) | ~€12,000 – €15,000 |
| Politecnico di Milano | UG | ~€3,000 – €4,000 | ~€15,000 – €20,000 |
| PG | ~€3,000 – €5,000 | ~€15,000 – €20,000 | |
| Montanuniversität Leoben | UG/PG | ~€1,500 | ~€10,000 – €12,000 |
Student Visa Requirements and Application Processes
Visa procedures vary by destination:
United Kingdom
UAE students must secure a Student Visa. Key steps include obtaining an unconditional offer and Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), demonstrating sufficient funds (e.g., £13,347 per year for London), and passing an English proficiency test. An online application, biometric appointment, and payment of visa fees plus an Immigration Health Surcharge are required.
Netherlands
For courses longer than three months, a Long-Stay Visa (MVV) and subsequent Temporary Residence Permit are required. The application generally involves a valid passport, university acceptance letter, proof of funds (approximately €950 per month), health insurance, and language proficiency scores.
Norway
UAE citizens must apply for a study permit. Required documents include an admission letter, proof of financial support (around NOK 128,887 per year), accommodation details, health insurance, and academic transcripts. Note that undergraduate programs in Norway often require proficiency in Norwegian.
Switzerland
Offers specialized offshore and reservoir engineering courses, providing extensive exposure to North Sea technologies.
Other Countries
For Austria (e.g., Montanuniversität Leoben) and Italy (e.g., Politecnico di Milano), UAE citizens should consult the respective embassy websites for specific visa requirements. It is essential to begin the visa application process as soon as an offer is received, as processing times can vary.
How We Can Assist You
Select the Right University
Application Guidance
Scholarship & Funding Assistance
Visa & Pre-Departure Support
Ongoing Student Support
Beyond admission, we provide resources on accommodation, cultural integration, and part-time work options, so you can settle in comfortably and focus on your studies.
Let us take the stress out of your study abroad process—contact us for a free counseling session and turn your dream of studying Petroleum Engineering in Europe into reality!