The Abu Dhabi Scholarship for Distinguished Students (SDS) is a premiere scholarship program to enable our next generation to become visionary leaders and change makers.
Designed for outstanding Emirati Grade 12/Year 13 students and university undergraduates age 24 and below, this unique program offers eligible students a holistic and seamless journey from school to the workplace through:
- Direct access to dedicated advisors and program specialists assisting throughout the education journey
- Access to exclusive internship and training programs in the UAE and abroad
- Specialized workshops and one-on-one sessions to prepare students for key milestones throughout their transitional journey
- Assistance in post-graduation career placement
- Networking opportunities with SDS Alumni members post graduation
Program Eligibility Criteria

Grade 12/Year 13 Students
- Enrollment in a school in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi
- Interested in specializing in industry demanded majors
- Unconditional offer from top 150 universities in one of the industry demanded majors
- Grade 11 final average of at least 85% or equivalent
- Grade 12 Term 1 average of at least 90% or equivalent
- A minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS (Academic) or 60 in TOEFL iBT
- A minimum score of 1100 in EmSAT math or 530 in SAT math
Abu Dhabi Scholarships Program award is contingent on Grade 12 final average of at least 90% or equivalent.

Undergraduate University Students
- Age 24 and below
- Enrolled in a top 150 university
- Specializing in industry demand majors
- Successful completion of at least 30 university credit hours at the time of application
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent
- A minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS (Academic) or 60 in TOEFL iBT
Abu Dhabi Scholarships for Distinguished Students
2022 Program Journey
Applications for Abu Dhabi Scholarships for Distinguished Students 2022 will open in January 2022 |
2022 Approved Majors Based on Industry Demand
Click on any of the following industry specializations to find out the approved majors available and the universities offering them.
Explore the Top 150 Recommended Universities and Visit their Website for More Information
Related ProgramsUniversity Preparation & Career Guidance Rize University Preparation & Career Guidance Program (UPCG) helps students in grades 9 – 12 prepare for all standardized tests for higher education, enables them to understand the university application process, facilitates their future career path and also exposes them to industry experts so they can learn about different careers. For registration and more information, please visit: www.rize.ae |
For further details, contact us through the below mentioned channels:
- Hotline Number: +971 50 189 4000
- Email: Guidance@adek.gov.ae