What you can expect:

Fully funded, four-week residency at their Abu Dhabi campus

Mentorship and guidance from top faculty

Collaboration with high-caliber students from the UAE and abroad

Opportunities to build a strong professional network

The program has quickly become one of the most competitive and sought-after immersive AI undergraduate research experiences. In 2025, nearly 2000 students applied, with only 4% accepted. More than 130 interns have participated so far, representing leading global institutions such as the Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Maryland, College Park, Indian Institutes of Technology, and Monterrey Institute of Technology.

ELIGIBILITY:

Undergraduate students in the penultimate year of a STEM-related major and graduating after August 2026

Minimum CGPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent

Enrolment letter from the university registrar showing admission date, program duration, and expected graduation date

Official academic transcript listing all courses, grades, and credit hours

Proof of English proficiency through a valid certificate of any of the following:

IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5

TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 90

PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 60

Cambridge C1 Advanced: Minimum 180

Cambridge C2 Proficiency: Minimum score 200 (meets and exceeds required proficiency)

Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120. (Accepted only where IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/Cambridge access is limited. A mandatory interview is required. Evidence of limited access to other tests may be requested.)

OR an official letter from the University registrar confirming English is the medium of instruction

Valid color passport copy (minimum one year validity)

Statement of purpose essay, including:

Motivation for applying

Personal and academic background and how it makes you suitable for the UGRIP

Stand-out achievements (e.g., awards, distinctions, etc.)

Goals as a prospective UGRIP participant

Preferred career path and plans

Any other relevant details that will support the application.

All documents must be in English or include certified translations. Academic documents must carry official stamps and signatures.

Please note: Exams must be administered at an approved physical test center. Home Edition exams are not accepted.

BENEFIT:

A generous stipend

Accommodation

Visa, airfares, and airport transfers

Health insurance

Social and cultural activities

Access to MBZUAI’s student facilities