Oman offers a variety of scholarships for its students, both domestically and internationally, to promote higher education and skill development. These scholarships are provided by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation (MOHERI), private institutions, and foreign governments. Below are the key eligibility criteria for Omani students to secure scholarships.
1. General Eligibility Requirements
While the specific criteria may vary depending on the scholarship type, some common eligibility requirements include:
A. Academic Performance
- Applicants must have completed their General Education Diploma (GED) or its equivalent.
- A minimum GPA or percentage score is typically required, often ranging from 75% to 90%, depending on the program.
- Some scholarships may require high grades in specific subjects relevant to the chosen field of study.
B. Nationality and Residency
- The applicant must be an Omani national.
- They must hold a valid Omani passport and national identification card.
C. Age Requirements
- Some scholarships have age limits. For example, undergraduate scholarships may require students to be under 25 years old.
D. English Language Proficiency
- If the scholarship is for an English-taught program, applicants may need to submit scores from IELTS or TOEFL.
- Some programs require a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 to 6.5 or equivalent.
2. Specific Scholarship Categories
A. Government-Funded Scholarships
MOHERI offers full and partial scholarships based on merit and financial need. Some of the main programs include:
- Internal Scholarships: Covers tuition fees for students studying in Omani universities and colleges.
- External Scholarships: Funds students to study abroad in countries such as the UK, USA, Australia, and Malaysia.
Eligibility for External Scholarships
- High academic performance, usually a minimum of 85-90% in high school.
- Strong performance in entrance exams or interviews (if required).
- Commitment to return and contribute to Oman’s workforce.
B. Private and Corporate Scholarships
- Various private organizations and companies provide scholarships, often linked to employment contracts.
- Some require students to specialize in fields like engineering, IT, business, or healthcare.
C. International Scholarships
- Some foreign governments (e.g., the UK Chevening Scholarship, US Fulbright, etc.) offer scholarships to Omani students.
- Eligibility depends on both Omani and host country requirements.
3. Required Documents for Application
Applicants usually need to submit:
- High school transcripts and certificates
- Passport and national ID copies
- English proficiency test scores
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose or personal essay
Final Thoughts
Securing a scholarship requires dedication, strong academic performance, and timely application submission.