American University of Ras Al Khaimah

• Location: Ras Al Khaimah, UAE,
• Year of foundation: 2005,
• Number of students: about 1200,
• Language of instruction: English,
• Type of education: blended.

American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) — a higher education institution offering bachelor's and master's programs.

The history of the institution dates back to 2005, when George Mason University, an American university, opened a campus in Ras Al Khaimah and taught higher education programs there. Since 2009, AURAK has existed as an independent institution with its own campus, full accreditation, and a wide range of academic fields in demand in the international labor market. The university boasts numerous advantages, including small academic groups, qualified faculty, and a diversity of student nationalities.

The quality of education, focus on modern teaching methods and a variety of additional opportunities and support for achieving success are annually confirmed by the assessments of national and international agencies. Located in the UAE, AURAK is considered one of the leading American universities in the country, making it popular among local and foreign students. The university simultaneously educates about 1200 students, each of whom acquires not only knowledge in a sought-after profession but also international experience studying in one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world.

Each educational program includes a mandatory practical component — an internship. To obtain a degree, students must complete two eight-week internships in their field of study, at one of the university's partner companies. During 16 weeks, students will gain applied professional experience that will prepare them for starting their careers.

AURAK staff offer a range of additional services, including career counseling, language support, course selection advice, and much more.

Teaching is based on three schools and faculties:

• Art, science,
• Business,
• Engineering, computer science.

The schools include departments responsible for more in-depth subject training of students.

AURAK is actively involved in research activities, collaborating with local and foreign universities and organizations. Several research centers operate here, focused on the study of the following areas:

• Research, innovation,
• Advanced technologies, artificial intelligence,
• Entrepreneurship,
• Leadership, professional education,
• Comfort outdoors in hot, humid climates.

During their studies, students can stay in one of six residences located within walking distance of the academic buildings. The dormitories separate students by gender, providing a comfortable and safe environment for all residents. The main type of room is double rooms with full furnishings, access to shared bathrooms, recreation areas, and laundry facilities; a limited number of single rooms are available in the buildings.

Dozens of cafes and restaurants with diverse menus operate on and near the campus grounds: from classic American dishes to international cuisine. It is easy to find dietary, vegan and vegetarian options, as well as various drinks and snacks.

Dozens of thematic communities, sports teams and creative groups operate at the university, offering students opportunities to develop their talents and achieve goals. Student societies participate in numerous annual campus and off-site events, whether it be sporting competitions, musical concerts or scientific seminars.

The list of areas for which thematic communities are open includes:

• Photography,
• Music,
• Culture, language and customs of different countries,
• Board games,
• Social work.

Sports sections offer students classes at amateur and more professional levels, individual and group training:

• Badminton,
• Football,
• Basketball,
• Table tennis,
• Foosball,
• Volleyball,
• Tennis.

All thematic communities and sports and creative clubs are managed by the Student Union, which is responsible for the well-being and high quality of life of AURAK students.

• A five-star rating from QS, making AURAK the only university in the UAE to achieve such success,
• Accreditation by prestigious agencies, including CAA from the UAE, SACSCOC — USA, QAA — UK,
• An international student community with representatives from over 45 nationalities,
• Partnerships with institutions and organizations in the USA, UAE, UK,
• Additional support for each student, including language training and career counseling.

The AURAK campus is located in Ras Al Khaimah, near numerous public places, restaurants and cafes, and attractions. Excellent conditions have been created on the educational grounds for higher education and the development of individual interests:

• Classes with interactive technologies,
• 50 innovative specialized laboratories,
• Conference halls,
• Library with a reading room and access to electronic databases,
• Computer classes,
• Rest areas,
• Sports center with gymnasiums and game rooms,
• Outdoor sports grounds.

The academic year covers almost the entire calendar year, including two semesters and time for the summer session and internships.

• Autumn: August-December,
• Spring: January-June,
• Summer session: May-September,
• Internships: May-September.

Classes are held on weekdays, with breaks scheduled for weekends and national/international holidays.

The list of additional expenses will include:

• Registration, administrative fees and deposits,
• Accommodation, meals and related expenses,
• Books, stationery and personal study materials,
• Medical insurance,
• Additional support not included in the curriculum,
• Some extracurricular activities, contributions to student community activities,
• Personal expenses.

The admissions committee accepts in-person and online applications, providing consultations to all applicants from the moment of contact until their arrival on campus. Candidates need to fill out a registration form, pay application fees, and submit the required documents, after which they will undergo an interview and possible entrance exams. Based on the results, the admissions committee will make a decision regarding enrollment and send an official invitation to begin studies in the upcoming semester.

To date, AURAK has awarded more than 1670 degrees to specialists who subsequently built careers in the UAE, the USA and other countries. High-quality training allows graduates to find employment in their chosen field and become sought-after industry professionals.

Foreign applicants wishing to enroll in higher education programs at AURAK must have a passport, health insurance, and a visa or residence permit for long-term stay in the UAE. They also need to provide:

• Academic certificates from previous educational institutions: certificate of complete secondary education / bachelor's degree,
• Official transcripts,
• Proof of English language proficiency: TOEFL (from 500/61) or equivalent.

To be admitted to the master's programs, several years of professional experience and a high level of language proficiency will be required.

The main scholarship programs at AURAK are academic and athletic scholarships: they are awarded to students with particularly outstanding results and can be extended for subsequent academic years if success is maintained. The award will cover part of the tuition fee and other expenses.

AURAK annually allocates a certain amount for financial aid to students who find themselves in difficult life situations; to receive it, the student must have good academic performance and meet the eligibility criteria.

• Guardianship services during the studies
• Student supervision