Studying in Bahrain: Your Guide to Higher Education

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Choosing to pursue higher education abroad is a decision filled with curiosity and determination, and when the chosen destination is Bahrain, the experience promises to be both enriching and unique.

Renowned for its vibrant blend of ancient traditions and modernity, Bahrain offers a conducive learning environment, supported by internationally recognized academic institutions and a welcoming, secure living setting.

Studying in the kingdom not only provides the opportunity to acquire new knowledge but also to immerse oneself in a rich and diverse culture that fosters personal and professional development.

Academic Landscape in Bahrain: Options for Expatriates

Overview of Major Universities in Bahrain

Bahrain has 14 universities, both public and private, primarily located in Manama, Riffa, and Muharraq. The most notable institutions include:

University	Status	Location	Key Fields
University of Bahrain	Public	Bahrain	Administration, Economics, Law, IT
Arabian Gulf University	Public	Manama	Medicine, Education, Biotechnology
Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland	Private	Busaiteen	Medicine, Health Sciences
Ahlia University	Private	Manama	Management, Economics, IT
AMA International University	Private	Salmabad	IT, Engineering, Business
Royal University for Women	Private	Riffa	Management, English, Human Resources
Kingdom University	Private	Manama	Law, Architecture, Commerce

Overview of Programs and Courses Offered in English

Many undergraduate and graduate programs are offered in English, particularly in the following fields:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science and Engineering
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Law
• Finance and Economics
• Marketing and International Business

Universities such as the University of Bahrain, Arabian Gulf University, AMA International University, and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain offer fully English-taught programs, particularly popular among expatriate students.

Admission Procedures for International Students

The main steps and requirements for expatriate admission are:

• Submission of an online application via the chosen university’s portal.
• Presentation of diplomas and transcripts translated into English or Arabic.
• Proof of English proficiency (usually TOEFL or IELTS required for English-taught programs).
• For some programs, passing an entrance exam or interview.
• Degree equivalency: universities often require official recognition of foreign degrees, sometimes through an internal committee or the Bahrain Ministry of Education.
• Additional documents: passport copy, motivation letter, academic recommendation.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Expatriates

• Some private universities offer fee reductions or merit-based scholarships based on academic criteria.
• Partial or full waiver programs sometimes exist for the first year (e.g., “100% discount for the 1st year” mentioned in some promotions).
• Partnerships with international organizations or embassies may provide access to external scholarships.
• Students may also benefit from payment plans or student loans depending on the institution.

Cultural and Social Framework in Bahrain

• Bahraini society is known for its openness and tolerance towards expatriates, especially in the academic context.
• Campuses offer student clubs, multicultural events, and specific support for international student integration.
• Daily life blends local traditions and international influences, with a strong expatriate presence in the capital.
• Expatriate women can study without restrictions and benefit from a secure environment, particularly in co-ed universities and at the Royal University for Women.

International Collaborations and Partnerships

Several universities maintain ties with foreign institutions (Europe, United States, Asia):

• Dual degree programs
• Academic exchanges (semesters or years abroad)
• Research partnerships and international internships

Examples: the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Bahrain offers internationally recognized programs; AMA International University collaborates with Philippine and American universities.

Key Takeaways

Bahrain’s academic landscape stands out for the diversity of its institutions, the accessibility of English-taught programs, and a multicultural environment conducive to welcoming expatriate students. Scholarship opportunities, social integration, and international collaborations enhance the country’s appeal for quality higher education.

Admission Procedures and Degree Equivalency

General Admission Criteria for Bahraini Universities:

• Hold a recognized secondary school completion certificate (Bahrain Secondary School Certificate or equivalent international certificate validated by competent authorities).
• Minimum average required: generally 70% for undergraduate degrees; some programs require higher averages.
• Application deadline: each university sets its own dates, often between May and July for the September intake. Late applications may be rejected.
• Documents to provide:
  • Completed application form
  • Certified copy of secondary school transcript or equivalent diploma
  • Transcripts from the last three school years
  • Photocopy of passport and national ID card
  • Two passport-sized photos
  • Medical certificate of good health issued by an accredited center in Bahrain
  • Proof of language proficiency (generally in English)
  • Portfolio, recommendation letters, or CV required depending on level and field

Summary Table: Required Documents by Level

Level	Required Diploma	Min. Average	Other Required Documents
Undergraduate	Recognized high school diploma (Bahrain/foreign)	≥70%	Passport, photos, health certificate, English proof
Master’s	Recognized Bachelor’s degree	≥2.33/4	Recommendation letters, CV, motivation letter, health certificate
Doctorate	Recognized Master’s degree	Variable	Research project/supervisor + specific criteria

Foreign Degree Evaluation Process:

Foreign degrees are evaluated for equivalency by the Ministry of Education – Directorate of Recognition and Equivalence of Certificates, which verifies authenticity and compliance with local standards.

Certificates must cover twelve school years from primary school.

For private institutions in Bahrain or abroad: mandatory authentication by the ministry before final acceptance.

Language Tests and Entrance Exams:

Mandatory proof of English for programs taught in this language:

• Academic IELTS with minimum score generally set at 5.5
• Internal test organized by the university if no official certificate is available
• Possible exemption if the program is entirely in Arabic (>90%)

Some programs also require a disciplinary test or specific interview.

Preparatory/Academic Transition Programs Offered:

• Mandatory university orientation program for all new undergraduate students
• Intensive English courses for international students who have not passed their language test upon admission
• Bridge modules in specific disciplines to facilitate transition to certain scientific or technical programs

Differences by Discipline/Level:

Major distinguishing points:

• Medical sciences/engineering: higher criteria (higher average; additional tests)
  • Medical admission = specific competitive exam + limited quotas
  • Arts/design admission = artistic portfolio required
  • Master’s/MBA = professional experience sometimes required; recommendation letters mandatory
  • Doctorate = doctoral project pre-approved by an authorized supervisor

Contacts / Useful Resources for International Applicants:

• International admissions service – each university generally has a dedicated office
• Ministry of Education – Directorate for Recognition and Equivalence (+ downloadable official guides)
• Regional British Council/Bahrain Institute for English Language Testing centers (IELTS tests)

For any specific inquiries regarding foreign degree equivalency, international applicants are advised to contact the relevant department within the ministry as well as the university admissions office directly to obtain a preliminary assessment tailored to their profile.

Important!
Please regularly check the specific conditions of each institution as they may vary depending on the chosen program and your country/original field of study.

Study Funding: Scholarships and Aid for Expatriates

Scholarships Available for International Students in Bahrain

Scholarship / Aid Name	Eligibility	Amount / Benefits	Application Procedure
University of Bahrain Scholarships	Open to international students, academic criteria and sometimes financial need	May cover tuition, living expenses, etc. (up to $4,000 USD/year)	Submit application file to admissions service with academic and administrative proofs
Ministry of Education Scholarships	According to calls for applications, often for undergraduate or master’s; open to foreigners based on annual quotas or bilateral agreements	Varies by program; generally partial or full coverage of main university fees	Follow official announcements and apply via the relevant ministry’s official website
Arab Organization Scholarships (e.g., Arab League)	Citizens of member countries; merit-based selection and/or specific socio-economic criteria for each partner organization	Partial or full financial support (study/transport/housing fees) based on annual programs/occasional offers	Apply via partner platforms or directly through the issuing organization
Foreign Embassy Scholarships in Bahrain	Foreign students already residing in the country; conditions vary by nationality/diplomatic origin; sometimes limited to priority disciplines set by the concerned embassy	Variable; frequently complementary to existing local/university aid	Contact your embassy then follow the indicated procedure (paper file/online platform)
American University in Bahrain – AUBH Scholarship	All eligible countries; academic excellence required; good English level required; enrollment in undergraduate/Master’s on AUBH-listed programs	Registration fees covered + paid internship included	Online application before deadline: CV, motivation letter, English certificate, diplomas & transcripts

Additional examples:

• Private universities like Royal University for Women, Ahlia University, and AMA International University also offer financial aid/own mechanisms dedicated to expatriate students.
• Some scholarships are specifically for women (e.g., RUW), or focused on certain technical/scientific fields.

Financial Aid from Local Universities

• Major public universities regularly offer partial/merit-based discounts based on academic record.
• Some private universities grant direct fee reductions for profiles with a strong academic/professional project.
• Possibility of accessing internal student employment for financial compensation.

Government/Private Initiatives

• Temporary programs supported by the Bahraini Ministry of Education
• Occasional support from national/regional private foundations
• Opportunities regularly listed via specialized platforms referencing international scholarships

Practical Tips to Maximize Chances

• Maintain a strong academic record from secondary/higher education: highlight academic results and extracurricular involvement
• Prepare a clear CV accompanied by a personalized motivation letter explaining your university/professional project related to the Bahraini context
• Obtain an official English certification if necessary (TOEFL/IELTS)
• Strictly respect deadlines and provide all requested documents
• Submit multiple applications to different structures/universities

Useful Resources

https://mina7portal.com/opportunités/volontariat-en-bahrain/programme-premier-cycle

https://greatyop.com/regions/bahrein/page/15/

https://concoursn.com/bourse-detude-au-bahrain-a-luniversite-americaine-de-bahrain/

Professional Training and Online Programs Available

Main universities and institutes in Bahrain offering professional training and online programs:

Institution	Types of Programs Available	Teaching Modalities	Common Study Fields
University of Bahrain	Certificates, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorates	On-campus, Online, Hybrid	Engineering, Administration, Social Sciences, Education
Arab Open University (AOU)	Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorates	Hybrid (on-campus + online)	Management, IT, Education Sciences
Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF)	Certificates, Diplomas, Master’s, Doctorates	Online, Hybrid	Finance, Banking, Administration, Insurance
Gulf University	Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorates	On-campus, Online	Information Technology, Engineering, Business
Ahlia University	Certificates, Master’s, Doctorates	Online, Hybrid	Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Education
Kingdom University	Master’s, Doctorates	Online, Hybrid	Engineering, Administration, Applied Sciences
Westford University College	Diplomas, Postgraduate, MBA	Online, Hybrid	Logistics, Supply Chain, HR, Organizational Psychology

Types of Degrees Offered:

• Professional Certificates
• Diplomas
• Postgraduate Diplomas
• Bachelor’s degrees
• Master’s degrees
• Doctorates (Ph.D.)

Most Common Study Fields:

• Business Administration, Management, Finance, Banking
• Engineering (mechanical, computer, electronic)
• Information Technology
• Social Sciences and Education
• Health, Medical Sciences
• Human Resources, Organizational Psychology
• Logistics, Supply Chain

Registration Procedures and Academic Prerequisites:

• Academic record (transcripts, previous diplomas)
• English proficiency (standardized tests like IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs)
• Motivation letter and/or CV for professional or graduate programs
• Professional experience sometimes required for MBAs and specialized degrees
• Online registration procedure via university or institute portals

Scholarship and Funding Opportunities for International Students:

• Institutional scholarships (often based on academic merit or financial need)
• Partnerships with foreign institutions for co-funding or mobility
• Fee reductions for online or distance learning
• Student loans and payment plans offered by some institutions

Opportunities to Follow Programs Remotely or in Hybrid Format:

• Fully online courses accessible from abroad, with interactive platforms and remote pedagogical assistance
• Hybrid formulas combining on-campus sessions (possibly condensed) and online modules
• Schedule flexibility allowing for balancing studies and professional activity

Advantages of Professional Training and Online Programs for a Career in Bahrain or the Middle East:

• Regional recognition of degrees facilitating employability in public and private sectors
• Adaptation to local and regional labor market needs, particularly in finance, oil, engineering, and digital fields
• Development of international skills and access to transnational professional networks
• Opportunity to pursue studies without interrupting career, thanks to the flexibility of online/hybrid format
• Gateway to mobility opportunities in the Gulf region and beyond

These programs thus offer international professionals and students a strategic springboard to integrate into Bahrain’s and the Middle East’s dynamic job market, while benefiting from an innovative and remotely accessible academic environment.