Study abroad
Study in Oman
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Oman
Higher education in Oman, on the Arabian Peninsula, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in energy, logistics and tourism, which is reflected in many study options. Teaching is often in Arabic. English is also widely used. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Oman?
There is no single reason to study in Oman. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting on the Arabian Peninsula, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Energy, Oil & Gas, Transport & Logistics and Hospitality, Tourism & Events, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Energy, logistics and tourism matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Muscat, Salalah and Sohar each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Oman means everyday contact with Arabic and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.
Top subjects to study in Oman
Here are some subject areas that fit well with study in Oman. We chose them editorially, with energy, logistics and tourism in mind, so treat them as ideas rather than a ranking.
- Energy, Oil & Gas
- Transport & Logistics
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Engineering
- Maritime & Shipping
- Business & Management
Courses connected to energy, logistics and tourism can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for Oman on this site, with its specializations.
When choosing between these areas, think about what you enjoy studying, the entry requirements for each course and the kind of work you would like to do afterwards. A specialization can matter as much as the broad subject.
Universities in Oman
- University of NizwaBirkat Al Mawz, Oman
- THE 2026 401–500
- Dhofar UniversitySalalah, Oman
- THE 2026 601–800
Scholarships to Study in Oman
Funding for international students in Oman can come from several sources, and what is available depends on your nationality, level of study and subject.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Oman
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Oman
Many programmes in Oman start around September, which is the main entry point for most new students. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Oman
There is no single price for studying in Oman. Fees are set by institutions and differ by course, level and type of institution.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Oman
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Oman requires for your nationality and course.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Oman in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Oman
Living costs in Oman depend a great deal on where you live and how you live. Costs in Muscat can differ noticeably from those in Salalah or Sohar and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Oman
What are the advantages of studying in Oman?
It depends on your goals. Oman offers programmes across many subjects, a location on the Arabian Peninsula and study in Arabic (with some English-taught options). Students interested in energy, logistics and tourism may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Oman?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Energy, Oil & Gas, Transport & Logistics, Hospitality, Tourism & Events and Engineering. The subjects page for Oman lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Oman?
Many programmes start around September. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Oman?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Oman?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Oman.
Are scholarships available for international students in Oman?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Oman?
Muscat, Salalah and Sohar are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Oman?
Many courses are taught in Arabic. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
Free counselling
Not sure where to begin?
Explore your study-abroad options with guidance.