American University of Sharjah
Choosing the right university is a big financial decision. If you want a degree that opens doors in finance, engineering, or law, the American University of Sharjah (AUS) is a top choice. It combines the famous American style of learning with the fast-growing opportunities in the United Arab Emirates.
Why Choose American University of Sharjah?
The American University of Sharjah (AUS) is not just a school; it is a global hub. It is located in University City, Sharjah, and is known for its tough academic standards. It is one of the top three universities in the UAE and ranks #272 in the world (QS World University Rankings 2026).
Top Rankings and Reputation
If you care about your future career, these numbers matter:
- #1 in UAE for Employer Reputation: Bosses love hiring AUS graduates because they are ready to work on day one.
- #1 in UAE for International Students: You will meet and learn with people from over 90 different countries.
- Top 5 for Engineering and Business: These are the high-paying “power majors” that lead to great salaries.
Academic Programs and Colleges
AUS is split into four main colleges. Each one is designed to help you become an expert in your field.
1. School of Business Administration (SBA)
This is where future finance leaders are born. The school is AACSB accredited. This is a gold standard that only the best business schools in the world have. If you want to work in global banking or wealth management, this is the place.
2. College of Engineering (CEN)
Engineering is a high-demand field in the UAE. AUS offers degrees in civil, mechanical, and computer engineering. Their programs are ABET-accredited, which means your degree is recognized in the United States and all over the world.
3. College of Architecture, Art, and Design (CAAD)
If you want to design the next famous skyscraper in Dubai, CAAD is the most prestigious choice in the region.
4. College of Arts and Sciences (CAS)
This college covers everything from international studies to environmental science.
Cost of Tuition and Financial Aid
Higher education is a major investment. Understanding the costs helps you plan your financial future.
| Program Level | Estimated Yearly Tuition (AED) | Estimated Yearly Tuition (USD) |
| Undergraduate | ~107,646 AED | ~$29,300 USD |
| Graduate (Masters) | Varies by Credit | Varies |
| PhD Programs | Varies by Research | Varies |
Note: Costs can change based on the number of credits taken per semester.
How to Get a Scholarship
You don’t have to pay for everything yourself. AUS is very generous with financial aid.
- Chancellor’s Scholarship: Covers 75% to 100% of costs for top-grade students.
- Merit Scholarships: If you have high grades in high school (90% or above), you can get 10% to 30% off automatically.
- Financial Grants: These are for students who need extra help to pay for school. They can cover up to 50% of tuition.
The Admissions Process: How to Apply
Getting into a top-ranked school requires a good plan. You should start your application at least six months before the semester starts.
Undergraduate Requirements
- High School Diploma: You need a strong GPA (usually 3.0 or higher).
- English Proficiency: Since all classes are in English, you need a good score on the IELTS or TOEFL.
- SAT or ACT: These tests help show you are ready for the American style of learning.
Graduate Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: Must be from a recognized university.
- Letters of Recommendation: People who know your work should speak for you.
- Research Proposal: This is required if you are applying for a PhD.
Career Outcomes and Salary Potential
Graduates from the American University of Sharjah often find jobs in high-paying niches like Law, Finance, and Insurance. The university has strong ties to the “Big Four” accounting firms and major law offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Because the UAE has no personal income tax, the “take-home” pay for AUS graduates is often much higher than in other parts of the world. This makes the return on investment (ROI) for an AUS degree very attractive for international students.