American University of Sharjah, AUS admission requirements
Applying to AUS requires meeting its admission criteria and following the online application process. International applicants typically need specific academic scores (e.g., a minimum of 60% or equivalent in their final year of secondary school). They also need to obtain a UAE Ministry of Education equivalency certificate for their secondary certificate. An English score is also required, with a minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80. AUS encourages early admission; you can apply in advance with your 10th/11th grade results if you are in your final year. To apply, create an account on AUS’s online portal (apply.aus.edu) and upload transcripts, certificate attestation, and test scores. International applicants pay a non-refundable application fee (currently AED 400). After receiving an admission offer and paying the seat reservation deposit, AUS will guide you through the next steps, including document attestation. In summary, international students should prepare: (1) required academic scores, (2) English proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL), (3) a UAE equivalency certificate, and then submit the AUS online application by the deadline.
Campus Life and Accommodation
AUS’s campus life is active and multicultural. The modern residential halls are gender-segregated and fully equipped. Each building features 24/7 security, Wi-Fi, study lounges, air-conditioned common rooms, computer labs, laundry rooms, and recreational facilities like table tennis and pool tables. Campus amenities include a fitness center, two swimming pools, sports courts, a library, cafés, and prayer rooms. An International Buddy Program pairs new international students with senior student mentors, helping them acclimate to campus life. Over 120 student clubs and organizations cover academics, culture, sports (including cricket, which is popular with Indian students), arts, and more. Housing is provided on campus or nearby; AUS offers three dormitory options. For the Fall 2025 semester, on-campus room rates range from about AED 7,000 per semester (shared room) to AED 15,000 per semester (private room with bathroom and kitchenette). A one-time housing application fee (AED 500) and a refundable security deposit (AED 5,000) are required when you apply. Utilities (water/electricity) cost about AED 290 per semester. All rooms come furnished with a bed, desk, and storage, and residences are cleaned weekly. These rates align with AUS’s publicly posted fees for 2025–2026. For comparison, off-campus rent in Sharjah is lower: a studio or one-bedroom apartment typically rents for AED 2,500–4,000 per month.
International Student Visa Process
After you receive your AUS admission letter, the university’s Visa and Equalization Services office efficiently handles the UAE student visa process. AUS will apply online for your Sharjah student residence visa before you arrive. The Ministry of Interior then issues a temporary 60-day entry permit that AUS emails to you. You use this permit to enter the UAE. Once in Sharjah, you will complete immigration formalities, including a medical test and obtaining your Emirates ID. You will also visit AUS’s offices to secure your full multi-year student visa. In short: AUS assists with the visa application immediately after admission, you arrive on the initial student permit, and finalize your residency status on campus. International citizens need a UAE student visa; exceptional students may even qualify for a 5-year Golden Visa under recent UAE policies. For general information on student visas, check our student visa guide.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students
AUS offers generous scholarships to outstanding incoming students regardless of nationality. The most prestigious is the President’s Scholarship (for Fall entrants outside the UAE), which covers 100% tuition and lab fees, on-campus housing, student medical insurance, a monthly stipend, and even annual round-trip airfare home. This highly competitive scholarship is renewable if criteria are met. In addition, AUS provides merit scholarships, automatically awarded based on high school grades, ranging from 10% to 30% of tuition. A “Family Tuition Grant” can reduce fees if two siblings enroll at the same time. New students with exceptional credentials (High SAT/AP scores, IB points, or A-levels) may qualify for combined grants covering up to 55% of tuition and fees in their first year. After the first semester, continued scholarships are possible through a high GPA (AUS has GPA-based “Distinction” discounts) and other awards. In summary, international students at AUS can access merit-based tuition waivers, generous full-ride scholarships, and in some cases need-based grants. Application for these is typically part of your admission process.
AUS vs University of Sharjah: Key Differences
Institution Type and Accreditation:
AUS is a private American-style university, accredited by Middle States, with AACSB for business and ABET for engineering. The University of Sharjah (UoS) is a public UAE government university. Both are licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education.
Rankings and Reputation:
AUS consistently ranks among the top universities in the UAE and Arab region, noted for its international outlook. UoS has also gained top national rankings; for example, it was ranked #1 in the UAE in US News 2024–25. UoS is especially known for its strong engineering, medical, and science programs.
Programs Offered:
AUS offers a liberal-arts curriculum with colleges of Engineering, Business, Arts & Sciences, and Architecture. It does not have medical or Sharia law programs. UoS has a broader array including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Law, Sharia, Education, etc. For students interested in engineering/business/arts, AUS is more specialized; for other fields (e.g., Medicine), UoS is an option.
Tuition and Scholarships:
AUS tuition (all majors) is AED 105,020 per year (2025–26), which is higher than UoS fees for most programs (UoS bachelor programs generally range around AED 42k–70k per year). UoS offers substantial merit discounts—for example, 50% off one semester for 90%+ high school scores and GPA-based discounts up to 50% thereafter. AUS relies on scholarships rather than automatic discounts, so its effective cost depends on awards won.
Student Body:
AUS enrolls ~5,200 students from ~90 countries, boasting a very high international student ratio. About 11% of AUS students come from India. UoS has a larger student population, including many Emiratis and regional students, but fewer nationals from outside the Gulf. Thus, AUS offers a more multicultural environment, while UoS has a more regional student mix.
Campus Life:
Both campuses are in Sharjah’s University City and feature modern facilities. However, AUS has a more Western-style campus life, with coed dorms and many international clubs. UoS maintains its own student life traditions and also offers free or subsidized housing. Overall, the choice depends on your field and preferences: AUS for an American-accredited, English-medium liberal arts experience; UoS for a broader UAE university with potentially lower net costs due to discounts.
Tuition Fees and Living Expenses (2025 Estimates)
Studying at AUS involves tuition plus living costs. Tuition for 2025–26 undergraduate programs is AED 105,020 per academic year (for a full course load). A technology fee (~AED 500/sem) and other minor fees apply as noted on the AUS website. Housing: On-campus dorms, the recommended option for freshmen, cost about AED 7,000–15,000 per semester depending on room type. For example, a shared double room runs ~AED 7,000/sem, whereas a private single with kitchenette is ~AED 15,000/sem. There is also a one-time AED 1,000 orientation fee plus the refundable deposit (AED 5,000). Utilities are extra, approximately AED 290 + 5% VAT per semester. Off-Campus Living: Many students also find off-campus housing in Sharjah or even Dubai. As a guideline, rent in Sharjah is relatively low: a furnished studio or one-bedroom in Sharjah can be about AED 2,500–4,000 per month. For comparison, a similar place in Dubai often costs AED 5,000–7,000/month. Utilities (electricity/water) might add AED 300–600/month, and groceries/food can be managed with a budget of AED 800–1,000/month if spent modestly. Overall, a Sharjah student might expect total living expenses (rent + food + transport) on the order of AED 5,000–8,000 per month, but careful budgeting or sharing apartments can lower that.
Student Diversity and International Community
AUS prides itself on a highly international campus. About 90 nationalities are represented among AUS students. The university consistently ranks among the UAE’s top institutions for its international student ratio. Indian students alone make up roughly 11% of the student body. This diversity is reflected in many cultural clubs and student-led organizations. For example, AUS supports a cricket team on campus, which many Indian and Pakistani students join. The multicultural environment means you’ll interact daily with peers from the Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. All official programs and coursework are in English, but students often learn from each other’s languages and cultures. Incoming international students note that AUS provides strong support for cultural integration. A former exchange student wrote that the International Office (IXO) and the Buddy Program made the transition “feel like I had a community” on campus. Safety is also commonly mentioned: Sharjah is considered very safe for students. One study-abroad review noted feeling “very safe exploring around the city.” AUS also hosts multicultural events and celebrations, such as international food festivals and cultural nights, to help students share their traditions. In short, international students at AUS, including a significant Indian community, will find a large network of peers, various cultural clubs (like an Indian cultural club and a cricket team), and many opportunities to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
Accreditation – ABET, NAAB, AACSB
AUS’s academic credentials are internationally recognized. All seven Bachelor of Science engineering programs (Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical, and Software Engineering) hold ABET accreditation, adhering to the US engineering standard. The Computer Science (BS) program also has ABET accreditation. These accreditations assure that the engineering curriculum meets rigorous global standards. Similarly, the Bachelor of Architecture program holds NAAB accreditation (US) and is even recognized by India’s Council of Architecture, allowing AUS architecture graduates to register as architects in India. The School of Business Administration holds AACSB accreditation, a top international standard for business schools. In summary, AUS’s core programs meet top international quality benchmarks: ABET for engineering, NAAB for architecture, and AACSB for business. The reference to “NAAC” in some Indian queries is irrelevant here; NAAC is an Indian accreditor, but AUS’s US accreditation bodies assure its degrees are globally respected.
Sharjah vs Dubai for Students – Cost and Lifestyle
Sharjah and Dubai are neighboring emirates but offer very different student lifestyles. Sharjah is known as the UAE’s cultural capital, providing a quieter, more traditional atmosphere. It is significantly more affordable; housing and daily essentials cost roughly 30–50% less than in Dubai. For example, a studio apartment in Sharjah might rent for AED 2,500–4,000/month, compared to AED 5,000–7,000 in Dubai. Shopping, food, and utilities are also cheaper (monthly utilities about AED 300–600 in Sharjah vs AED 600–1,000 in Dubai). Sharjah enforces conservative norms: public alcohol sales are prohibited, and entertainment venues typically close earlier. However, Sharjah city boasts rich cultural attractions like museums, traditional souqs, and art galleries, and it is very family-friendly. Many students live in Sharjah (or on the AUS campus) to save money and commute to Dubai on weekends if desired.
By contrast, Dubai is fast-paced and cosmopolitan. It offers world-class nightlife, international restaurants, and tourist attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and beach clubs that Sharjah lacks. This vibrant lifestyle comes at a premium: residents often spend much more on housing and leisure. Commute-wise, AUS is about 25 km from central Dubai—roughly a 30–60 minute drive depending on traffic. Dubai’s public transit (metro, trams, buses) is more extensive than Sharjah’s, which may be a factor if you plan to live in Dubai. In short, living in Sharjah allows student budgets to stretch further and keeps you close to campus, while Dubai offers greater entertainment and career networking opportunities at a higher cost.
Studying at the American University of Sharjah (AUS):
The American University of Sharjah (AUS) is a private, American-style liberal arts university in Sharjah, UAE. It offers a multicultural campus with modern facilities, competitive academics, and a focus on practical learning. AUS consistently ranks among the top UAE universities, but how does it compare with other leading institutions? What are its flagship programs, student outcomes, and support services for students (and concerned parents)? This guide provides a thorough overview for international students (especially from India and elsewhere) and their families.
Competitive University Comparisons
Global Rankings: AUS ranks #272 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026. By comparison, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)—often cited as the UAE’s top liberal-arts campus—ranks much higher (around #46). Khalifa University, known for its engineering and research programs, is #177, while the public University of Sharjah is #328. Heriot-Watt University (Edinburgh campus in Dubai) is around #235 globally. In subject-specific QS rankings, AUS has placed #1 in the UAE for Architecture & Design (QS 2024) and top 200 globally in business and engineering, whereas the AUS School of Business Administration is #1 in the UAE (QS Business & Management, 2023). These numbers indicate AUS is competitive regionally, but some peers (NYUAD, Khalifa) rank higher internationally.
Tuition & Costs: AUS undergraduate tuition is about AED 105,020 per year (≈ USD 28,600). NYUAD’s tuition is much higher (~USD 62,800, with a total cost of $84,140 including living expenses), though NYUAD also offers generous financial aid. Khalifa University’s tuition is ~USD 27,200 per year (around AED 100,000), similar to AUS. The Heriot-Watt Dubai campus charges roughly AED 60,000–70,000 (USD 16–19k) for undergraduates. Public universities like Sharjah University typically have lower fees for locals (often a few thousand USD), but AUS and peers are private, so international fees apply. It’s important to compare not just sticker prices but also scholarship/aid opportunities at each school.
Academic Programs: AUS offers a broad American-style curriculum. Its Engineering college has ABET-accredited degrees in Civil, Mechanical, Computer, and Electrical Engineering. The Civil Engineering program is described as “world-class” with state-of-the-art labs. Mechanical Engineering features labs in aerospace, robotics, and renewable energy, and its graduates work for firms like GE and Siemens. The School of Business Administration (SBA) is AACSB-accredited (a top global business credential) and includes a unique 22-terminal trading floor for finance students. AUS’s College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) is especially strong: ranked #1 in the UAE for architecture (QS 2024), with extensive fabrication labs and award-winning faculty. Compared to peers, AUS’s offerings are similar to other emirate universities (e.g., NYUAD’s strong liberal arts, Khalifa’s heavy STEM focus), but AUS is notable for its breadth (business, arts, engineering all robust) and its international accreditations and faculty.
Student Life & Campus: AUS maintains a residential campus. Over 1,400 students (men and women) live on campus in separate halls, all under 24/7 security coverage. This contrasts with some Dubai campuses, like Heriot-Watt, where many students commute. Sharjah itself is known as a quieter, more conservative city than Dubai/Abu Dhabi, though the AUS campus is multicultural and liberal, with vibrant clubs, intramural sports, etc. For families, campus safety is emphasized—AUS has round-the-clock security staff and a staffed safety office for emergencies. By comparison, NYUAD’s Saadiyat campus also has tight security and a high-end residential setting, whereas Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi is more research-focused with fewer on-campus dorms. Overall, expect AUS to offer a lively but secure campus life, similar to top regional universities.
Popular Programs & Unique Features
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Computer):
AUS’s Engineering College is regionally renowned. The Civil Engineering program is touted as “top-ranked” in the UAE, offering “world-class education, state-of-the-art labs and hands-on projects.” Students build real structures using labs like the Fast Track Steel Lab and Concrete Lab, working under faculty who consult for local projects. Mechanical Engineering includes advanced facilities, such as aerospace and robotics labs, and maintains ties to industry giants like Caterpillar and GE. Its graduates enter oil & gas, automotive, and aerospace fields. The Computer Engineering & Computer Science programs are ABET-accredited, meaning they meet global standards. AUS also has numerous computing labs and research centers; for example, the Engineering Department reports “over 10 specialized labs” in AI, Data Analytics, Networks, etc. Tech employers seek graduates, who often proceed to top U.S. or European grad schools. In sum, AUS engineering students benefit from strong industry connections (internships with ADNOC, DP World, etc.), practical labs, and international accreditation.
Business Administration:
AUS’s BSBA program ranks highly in the UAE. In QS Business & Management Subjects (2022), AUS was #1 in the country and top-200 globally. The School is AACSB-accredited (less than 5% of global business schools have this). Students can major in Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, etc., and a new feature is the Interactive Trading Floor—a simulated Wall Street environment with 22 live Bloomberg terminals. The Finance major is a CFA partner program, and all SBA curricula include mandatory internships. The MBA program also ranks well (top 10 in Middle East/Africa). This means business students receive practical training and certification pathways (CPA, CMA). Corporate ties are strong; for example, the SBA Dean notes “advising and placement offices” connecting students with local firms each semester. By comparison, NYUAD has no formal business school, and Khalifa focuses more on engineering/tech, making AUS SBA unique among UAE options.
Architecture & Design:
AUS’s College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD) leads the region. It offers NAAB-accredited architecture degrees and ranks #1 in UAE for architecture (QS 2024). The program emphasizes hands-on making: students build models and test designs in extensive workshops. CAAD boasts “state-of-the-art labs, unparalleled in the region” for woodworking, 3D printing, metalwork, etc. Notably, the curriculum includes built environment study tours abroad (Europe/Asia) and local internships—the website highlights “internship opportunities in the UAE’s vibrant design industry” and global exposure. Alumni have gone on to top architecture schools worldwide (Harvard GSD, MIT, AA London) and have led landmark projects (e.g., Museum of the Future, Dubai Twisted Bridge). Art & Design students can major in Graphic or Film Design with industry placements; the Art & Design department reports many graduates winning international awards. In short, AUS’s design programs combine a creative studio environment with strong professional links, making them very attractive—especially since no other local campus (except maybe NYUAD’s studio courses) matches this depth.
Post-Graduation Outcomes
AUS alumni generally find good jobs in the UAE/GCC and elsewhere. Graduates enter diverse fields; the latest data shows them in “top-tier multinational companies, government bodies, and leading nonprofit organizations.” Major UAE employers of AUS alumni include ADNOC (oil & gas), Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), Emirates Group, Mubadala, and others (LinkedIn data shows AUS alumni at ADNOC, DEWA, PwC, etc.). In business fields, graduates join banks like Emirates NBD or consultancies (PwC, EY)—SBA’s internship fairs and industry events (e.g., the AUS Career Fair) regularly connect students to these companies. Engineering grads often work for ADNOC, Siemens, GE, or tech firms. Many students also pursue graduate studies: CAAD boasts alumni admitted to Harvard GSD and AA London; Engineering and CS majors have gone to Stanford, ETH Zurich, and top U.S. universities. AUS’s career services and alumni network are active. A recent report notes a “robust alumni network” and career office helping with interviews and placements. The AUS Career Fair attracts 600+ employers every year, including local and global firms. For skilled graduates, the UAE itself is easing visa rules: high-achieving grads can get long-term visas. For example, Golden Visas allow outstanding university grads to stay 10 years if they meet academic criteria (e.g., GPA ≥3.5 from a top-rated UAE university). Even non-Emirati students can qualify if they graduate with honors from a top-100 global university. There is also the 5-year Golden Visa for graduates of UAE schools with high marks. Additionally, UAE’s new Green Visa permits self-sponsored skilled workers (including new graduates) to stay and work without an employer sponsor. In practice, this means qualified AUS grads (especially those with high grades) can live and work in the UAE long-term after graduating, an attractive benefit for international students.
Considerations for Parents
Campus Safety:
AUS takes campus security seriously. A 24/7 security team and dedicated Safety Office are in place. Emergency numbers and protocols are established, and Sharjah itself is one of the safest emirates. The official Safety and Security page emphasizes a commitment to a secure environment.
Housing:
Men’s and women’s dorms are physically separate and secure. Over 1,400 students live on campus in halls just steps from classrooms. First-year students often receive special housing. Dorm life is regulated (curfews, roommate agreements, etc.) and supervised by wardens, assuring parents that students are in a structured environment.
Healthcare:
AUS has on-campus University Health Services (UHS). All undergraduate students must have health insurance, provided through the campus plan. The campus clinic offers routine care on a walk-in basis, and emergency medical support is available 24/7. Students visit nearby hospitals for specialist care with referrals. Mental health services are also available through Counseling Services on campus, offering confidential counseling appointments by licensed psychologists. In short, students have easy access to doctors, nurses, and counselors on campus.
Religious Accommodations:
For Muslim students, AUS has a centrally located mosque on campus and additional prayer rooms, for example, in the library. Friday prayers and religious events are observed. Non-Muslim students can find quiet rooms or the multi-faith Student Center. The university is non-sectarian and hosts various cultural/religious clubs. In Sharjah, Islamic practices are accommodated, but the campus welcomes all faiths.
Wellness & Insurance:
Mental health support is available through the Counseling Center, which is free for students. The campus offers fitness facilities, sports clubs, and wellness programs like yoga or stress management. Health insurance is mandatory, with AUS managing the coverage, which gives parents peace of mind.
Parental Involvement:
AUS regularly updates families via e-newsletters and social media. Parents can visit during open days or graduation ceremonies; the Abu Dhabi ruler himself attends commencement speeches. While AUS does not publish a “parent orientation” program, families can communicate with Residential Life or the International Student Office if needed. Alumni chapters in Dubai/India also help maintain a connection.
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