Overview
The British University in Dubai is a research-focused private university in Dubai International Academic City, teaching in English on a British academic model. It offers undergraduate, master's and doctoral programmes, with a notably strong doctoral portfolio for the region.
Cost to study at BUiD
Undergraduate
Master's degree
Doctoral (PhD)
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Admission requirements
- Undergraduate: minimum 65% in Class 12 and IELTS 5.0 (or TOEFL iBT 61 / EmSAT 1100)
- Postgraduate: bachelor's degree with GPA 3.0 or above and IELTS 6.0 (or TOEFL iBT 79)
- Conditional master's admission may be available at IELTS 5.5
- Doctoral: IELTS 6.5 - 7.0 depending on the programme
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Intakes
- September 2026 (main intake)
- January 2027 — confirm availability for your programme
Indicative — not yet confirmed with the institution · last checked 2026-08-22 · source · always confirm current figures with us before you budget or apply.
Student visa for United Arab Emirates
- UAE student visas are sponsored by the university once you accept an offer — you do not apply independently as you would for Europe.
- You must pass a medical fitness test and complete Emirates ID biometrics after arriving in Dubai.
- The student visa is typically issued for one year and renewed annually against proof of continued enrolment.
- Working while studying requires separate permission arranged through the university and the relevant free-zone authority.
Accreditation
- Licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education, with programmes accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA)
Frequently asked questions
Is BUiD recognised in India?
BUiD is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education with CAA-accredited programmes. For Indian recognition — for example for government jobs or further study — you should confirm the position with the Association of Indian Universities for your specific programme before enrolling.
What IELTS score do I need for BUiD?
Broadly, IELTS 5.0 for undergraduate entry, 6.0 for master's (with conditional admission sometimes possible at 5.5), and 6.5 to 7.0 for doctoral programmes. Requirements vary by programme, so confirm for your specific course.
How much does it cost to study at BUiD?
Indicative tuition is around AED 56,250-62,500 per year for undergraduate study and about AED 85,000 for a master's. Dubai living costs add substantially, typically AED 3,000-5,000 a month depending on accommodation.

