M.Sc. in

• Apply statistical inference and modelling to practical industry challenges.
• Analyze datasets with supervised learning methods for functional approximation, classification, and forecasting and unsupervised learning methods for dimensionality reduction and clustering.
• Formulate and use models of data analysis to provide innovative and sustainable solutions to business-related challenges. 
• Identify critical and emerging challenges in data analysis, formulate innovative research questions, and design experiments or studies that yield meaningful insights.
• Communicate data findings effectively to any audience, orally, visually, and in written format, individually or in teams.

• 36 credits
• On campus

Bachelor of Science or equivalent from an accredited university or a university recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE).

MBZUI can grant program access to bachelor’s degree holders from other disciplines if they can provide evidence of gaining technical knowledge and expertise through engagement or work experience. MBZUAI student admissions will handle these situations on a case-by-case basis based on completion of an admission requirement and the entrance exam. 

Proof of English language ability by providing valid certificate copies of either of the following:

• Standard TOEFL iBT with a minimum total score of 90 
• IELTS Academic with a minimum overall score of 6.5
• EmSAT English with a minimum score of 1550 

• EmSAT Math 1250 
• EmSAT Computer Science OR Physics 800 
• International students: SAT 650 

Math requirements for mature candidates can be assessed on a case-by-case basis in the absence of standard test results. The entrance exam determines final eligibility.

In a 500- to 1000-word essay, explain why you would like to pursue a graduate degree at MBZUAI and include the following information:

• Motivation for applying to the university
• Personal and academic background and how it makes you suitable for the program you are applying for
• Experience in completing a diverse range of projects related to artificial intelligence
• Stand-out achievements, e.g. awards, distinction, etc
• Goals as a prospective student
• Preferred career path and plans after graduation
• Any other details that will support the application

Applicants will be required to nominate referees who can recommend their application. M.Sc. applicants should have a minimum of three (3) referees wherein one was a previous course instructor or faculty/research advisor and the other a current or previous work supervisor.

All applicants with complete files, including the required number of recommendations, will be invited to participate in an online screening exam to assess their knowledge and skills. Completion of the exam is not mandatory but highly encouraged as it would provide additional information to the evaluation committee. Waiving the exam is only recommended for those students who can provide strong evidence of their research capability, subject matter expertise, and technical skills.

Exam Topics

Math: Calculus, probability theory, linear algebra, trigonometry and optimization

Programming: Knowledge surrounding specific programming concepts and principles such as algorithms, data structures, logic, OOP, and recursion as well as language–specific knowledge of Python

Applicants are highly encouraged to complete the following online courses to further improve their qualifications :

• Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)
• Python Data Structures
• Mathematics for Machine Learning: Linear Algebra
• An Intuitive Introduction to Probability

 The exam instructions are available here

A select number of applicants may be invited to an interview with faculty as part of the screening process. The time and instructions for this will be communicated to applicants on timely bases.

Application deadlines : 31st May 2025, (5:00 PM UAE time)