Sultan Qaboos University Leads Oman’s Public Higher Education
Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), one of Oman’s top higher education institutions, continues to reinforce its position as the country’s sole public university and a cornerstone of academic and research excellence. Established in 1986 in the Omani capital of Muscat, the university currently serves nearly 7,000 students across a wide range of disciplines.
From Five Colleges to Nine: A Story of Academic Growth
When it first opened its doors, SQU comprised five colleges. Today, it has expanded into one of the largest universities in the Sultanate, offering nine colleges covering key academic fields:
Medicine
Engineering
Agricultural and Marine Sciences
Education
Science
Arts and Social Sciences
Commerce and Economics
Law
Nursing
The university has built a strong reputation for academic quality and advanced research facilities, positioning itself as a leading institution both nationally and regionally.
Competitive Tuition and Comprehensive Scholarships
Tuition fees for international students are considered competitive compared to many universities in the region and vary depending on the academic program and level of study, from undergraduate to doctoral degrees.
To attract international postgraduate students, the university offers fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees along with additional benefits. Local Omani students also benefit from scholarship opportunities, including tuition waivers and financial stipends.
Postgraduate Scholarship Requirements and Timeline:
Admission to a full-time Master’s or PhD program is mandatory.
Typically, two full scholarships are awarded each academic year.
A minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 is required.
Applications are generally accepted between December and February.
Advanced Infrastructure and Global Collaboration
Sultan Qaboos University is equipped with advanced libraries, modern laboratories, specialized research centers, and well-furnished student housing facilities. The university maintains close partnerships with international universities and research institutions, enabling academic exchange opportunities and participation in joint research projects.
Comprehensive Student Services
University Hospital: SQU operates a fully equipped teaching hospital, where medical students complete their clinical training.
Medical Services: Free healthcare services are provided to international students.
Scholarship Benefits: Some scholarships include tuition exemptions, monthly stipends, and round-trip airfare.
Through sustained academic development and international cooperation, Sultan Qaboos University continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Oman’s higher education landscape and preparing highly qualified graduates for the future.
