No. |
University Name |
Est. |
Rank (KW) |
Type |
City |
Acceptance Rate |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Year) |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master's Programs |
PhD Programs |
Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
~60% |
100–500 (Public) |
Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, Arts |
Education, Engineering, Law, Science, MBA |
Education, Engineering, Law |
Shuwaikh, Kuwait |
|
2 |
Gulf University for Science & Technology |
2002 |
2 |
Private |
Mishref |
~70% |
3,000–4,000 |
CS, BA, English, Comm., Finance |
MBA, English, Comm., IT, EdTech |
N/A |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
|
3 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
3 |
Private |
Salmiya |
~65% |
3,500–5,000 |
Intl. Relations, CS, BA, Comm., Eng. Lit |
MBA, Intl. Affairs, Comm., English |
N/A |
Salmiya, Kuwait |
|
4 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
4 |
Private |
West Mishref |
~75% |
3,000–4,500 |
Engineering, Business, Aviation, Tech |
Engineering, Business |
N/A |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
|
5 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait |
2002 |
5 |
Private |
Ardiya |
~85% |
1,000–1,500 |
IT, Business, English, Education, CS |
MBA, Education, CS |
N/A |
Al Ardiya, Farwaniya |
|
6 |
American University of the Middle East |
2007 |
6 |
Private |
Egaila |
~60% |
4,000–6,000 |
Eng., BA, Arch., Design, Aviation |
MBA, Systems Eng., Design |
N/A |
Al-Eqaila, Kuwait |
|
7 |
Box Hill College Kuwait (Women) |
2007 |
7 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
~90% |
2,000–3,000 |
Fashion, IT, Bus., Media, Ed. |
N/A |
N/A |
Abu Halifa |
|
8 |
Kuwait International Law School |
2014 |
8 |
Private |
Doha |
~70% |
2,500–3,500 |
Law, Intl. Law, Islamic Law |
Law, Intl. Law |
Law |
Doha, Kuwait |
|
9 |
Kuwait College of Science & Technology |
2016 |
9 |
Private |
Doha |
~80% |
3,000–4,000 |
CS, IT, Engineering, Math, Business |
N/A |
N/A |
Doha, Kuwait |
|
10 |
College of Technological Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
10 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
~60% |
100–200 |
Eng., IT, Business, Tech Ed., Health Sci. |
N/A |
N/A |
Shuwaikh, Kuwait |
|
11 |
Higher Institute of Musical Arts |
2002 |
11 |
Public |
Jabriya |
~50% |
Low / Free |
Music, Fine Arts, Musicology |
N/A |
N/A |
Jabriya, Hawalli |
|
12 |
Sabah Al-Salem University City (Kuwait U) |
2019 |
12 |
Public |
Shadadiya |
N/A |
Included in KU |
All majors via Kuwait University |
See Kuwait University |
See KU |
Al-Shadadiya, Kuwait |
|
13 |
Algonquin College - Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
13 |
Private |
Jahra |
~85% |
2,500–3,000 |
Business, IT, Design, HRM, Marketing |
N/A |
N/A |
Al Jahra, Kuwait |
|
14 |
The British Academy of International Ed. |
2018 |
14 |
Private |
Salwa |
~90% |
3,000–4,500 |
Int'l Business, Tourism, Law, IT, Mgmt |
N/A |
N/A |
Salwa, Kuwait |
|
15 |
Maastricht School of Management Kuwait |
2019 |
15 |
Private |
Kuwait City |
~60% |
5,000–6,500 |
Business (only PG) |
MBA, Exec. MBA, Mgmt., Finance |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
16 |
Institute of Banking Studies (IBS) |
1970 |
16 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
~40% |
Subsidized |
Banking (Cert.), Finance |
Banking, Finance |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
17 |
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS) |
2004 |
17 |
Private |
Kuwait City |
~50% |
5,000–6,000 |
MBA, Finance, Management |
MBA |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
18 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
18 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
~85% |
2,000–3,500 |
CS, Network Eng., IT, E-commerce, Mgmt |
N/A |
N/A |
Abu Halifa |
|
19 |
College of Basic Education (PAAET) |
1986 |
19 |
Public |
Ardiyah |
~65% |
Free / Subsidized |
Education, Math, PE, Arabic, Islamic Stud. |
N/A |
N/A |
Ardiya, Farwaniya |
|
20 |
ACK Business School |
2010 |
20 |
Private |
West Mishref |
~75% |
3,500–4,500 |
Business, HR, Marketing, Intl. Mgmt, Fin. |
MBA |
N/A |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
|
21 |
College of Nursing (PAAET) |
1976 |
21 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
~55% |
Low / Subsidized |
Nursing, Midwifery, Health Edu. |
N/A |
N/A |
Shuwaikh |
|
22 |
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts |
1973 |
22 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
~60% |
Low / Subsidized |
Drama, Theater, Performing Arts |
N/A |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
23 |
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research |
1967 |
23 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
~30% (Research) |
Govt. Funded |
Research Only |
Research Grants |
PhD Research Only |
Kuwait City |
|
24 |
The Public Authority for Applied Ed. (PAAET) |
1982 |
24 |
Public |
Nationwide |
~60% |
Subsidized |
Technical, Education, Sciences |
N/A |
N/A |
Various Cities |
|
25 |
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies |
1976 |
25 |
Public |
Adailiya |
~70% |
Free / Subsidized |
Islamic Studies, Law, Quran, Arabic |
Islamic Studies |
N/A |
Adailiya |
No. |
University / College Name |
Est. |
Rank (KW City) |
Type |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Year) |
Acceptance Rate |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master's Programs |
PhD Programs |
Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University (Main Campus) |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
100–500 (Subsidized) |
~60% |
Engineering, Law, Medicine, Arts, Business |
Education, Law, MBA, Science, IT |
Education, Law, Engineering |
Shuwaikh |
|
2 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
2 |
Private |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
Intl. Relations, CS, Business, English, Comm. |
MBA, English, Comm., Intl. Affairs |
N/A |
Salmiya |
|
3 |
Gulf University for Sci. & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
3 |
Private |
3,000–4,000 |
~70% |
BA, CS, English, Finance, Marketing |
MBA, Education, IT, Media Studies |
N/A |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
|
4 |
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS) |
2004 |
4 |
Private |
5,000–6,000 |
~50% |
Business (PG only) |
MBA, Mgmt., Finance |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
5 |
Maastricht School of Management Kuwait |
2019 |
5 |
Private |
5,500–6,500 |
~60% |
N/A |
MBA, Exec. MBA, Strategy, Finance |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
6 |
Kuwait International Law School |
2014 |
6 |
Private |
2,500–3,500 |
~70% |
Law, Intl. Law, Islamic Law |
Law, Public Law |
Law |
Doha, Kuwait City |
|
7 |
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) |
1967 |
7 |
Public |
Govt. Funded |
~30% (Research) |
Research-based |
Research Grants |
PhD Research Only |
Kuwait City |
|
8 |
Institute of Banking Studies (IBS) |
1970 |
8 |
Public |
Subsidized |
~40% |
Banking, Finance (Cert.) |
Banking, Finance, Risk Mgmt. |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
9 |
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts |
1973 |
9 |
Public |
Free / Low |
~60% |
Drama, Theatre, Performing Arts |
N/A |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
10 |
Higher Institute of Musical Arts |
2002 |
10 |
Public |
Free / Low |
~50% |
Music, Musicology, Composition |
N/A |
N/A |
Jabriya (City Area) |
|
11 |
College of Business Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
11 |
Public |
Free / Subsidized |
~65% |
Business Admin., Accounting, HR, Marketing |
N/A |
N/A |
Kuwait City |
|
12 |
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies |
1976 |
12 |
Public |
Free / Subsidized |
~70% |
Islamic Studies, Quran, Arabic, Law |
Islamic Law, Fiqh |
N/A |
Adailiya |
|
13 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) (Campus) |
2004 |
13 |
Private |
3,500–4,500 |
~75% |
Engineering, Business, Aviation |
Engineering, Business |
N/A |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
|
14 |
College of Technological Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
14 |
Public |
100–300 |
~60% |
Electrical Eng., Mech., IT, Health, Aviation |
N/A |
N/A |
Shuwaikh |
|
15 |
Arab Open University (Kuwait Campus) |
2002 |
15 |
Private |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
IT, Business, Education, CS, English |
MBA, CS, Education |
N/A |
Ardiya (City Area) |
|
16 |
The British Academy for International Ed. |
2018 |
16 |
Private |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
IT, Tourism, Intl. Mgmt., Law, Business |
N/A |
N/A |
Salwa |
|
17 |
College of Nursing (PAAET) |
1976 |
17 |
Public |
Free / Subsidized |
~55% |
Nursing, Midwifery, Public Health |
N/A |
N/A |
Shuwaikh |
|
18 |
College of Basic Education (PAAET) |
1986 |
18 |
Public |
Subsidized |
~60% |
Education, PE, Arabic, Islamic Studies |
N/A |
N/A |
Ardiya |
|
19 |
Sabah Al-Salem University City |
2019 |
19 |
Public |
Part of KU |
Based on KU |
All KU Majors |
Follows KU |
Follows KU |
Al-Shadadiya |
|
20 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
20 |
Private |
2,000–3,500 |
~85% |
CS, Networking, Cybersecurity, Mgmt, IT |
N/A |
N/A |
Abu Halifa (Metro) |
Public Universities:
Public institutions in Kuwait, such as Kuwait University and colleges under the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET), offer heavily subsidized or free tuition for Kuwaiti nationals. Non-Kuwaiti students may pay modest fees.
Average tuition for bachelor's programs: typically ranges from 100 to 500 Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) per year.
Master's programs are often similarly subsidized or cost up to 1,000 KWD annually.
PhD programs, where available (mainly at Kuwait University), are mostly tuition-free for nationals and subsidized for others.
Private Universities:
Private institutions in Kuwait charge significantly higher tuition, especially for international curricula and Western-affiliated universities.
Average tuition for bachelor’s programs at private universities ranges from 2,500 to 5,500 KWD per year.
Master’s programs, such as MBAs, range from 3,500 to 6,500 KWD annually.
Most private institutions in Kuwait do not offer PhD programs. If available, costs can exceed 7,000 KWD per year.
By Institution Type (General Averages):
Public universities: 100–500 KWD/year (bachelor’s), 500–1,000 KWD/year (master’s)
Private universities: 2,500–5,500 KWD/year (bachelor’s), 3,500–6,500 KWD/year (master’s)
Research institutes (PhD): Often government-funded or based on grants
Acceptance Rate for International Students: 30% to 50%
Acceptance Rate for Indian Students: ~40% (on average)
Notes:
Public universities in Kuwait prioritize Kuwaiti nationals and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) citizens.
International students, including Indians, are admitted on a limited quota.
Entry is competitive for programs like medicine, engineering, and law.
Non-GCC students may also face visa and residency limitations.
Acceptance Rate for International Students: 65% to 90%
Acceptance Rate for Indian Students: ~70% to 85%
Notes:
Private institutions are more open to international students, including Indians.
Entry standards are generally based on high school GPA or bachelor’s grades, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and sometimes a personal interview.
Visa sponsorship for student residency is usually provided by the university.
Acceptance Rate for International Students: 80% to 90%
Acceptance Rate for Indian Students: ~85%
Notes:
These institutions are highly accessible for students with technical or career-focused interests.
Many programs offer blended learning, and the admission process is straightforward.
1. Choose Your University and Program
Research available programs (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) and identify the universities that offer your desired field of study.
Check specific eligibility criteria, language requirements, and deadlines for each institution.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Commonly required documents include:
Completed application form (online or paper-based)
Academic transcripts (high school or previous degrees)
Equivalency certificate from Kuwait’s Ministry of Education (for international qualifications)
Passport copy and residency visa (for non-Kuwaitis)
Passport-sized photos
English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) for programs taught in English
Recommendation letters (mainly for postgraduate programs)
Statement of purpose or personal essay (sometimes required)
Medical fitness certificate (for visa/residency purposes)
3. Submit Application
Most universities have an online portal where applications can be submitted.
Some institutions also allow in-person submission at the admissions office.
Deadlines typically fall between May and August for the Fall semester, though some private universities have rolling admissions.
4. Pay Application Fee
An application fee (usually 10–50 Kuwaiti Dinar) may be required.
Some universities waive the fee for online applications or early submissions.
5. Wait for Admission Decision
Admission decisions usually take 2–6 weeks.
Public universities like Kuwait University may take longer due to quota and eligibility checks.
Accepted students receive an official admission letter and details for enrollment.
6. Visa and Residency (For International Students)
After receiving admission, international students must apply for a student visa.
The university often sponsors this visa and assists with the process.
You’ll need to submit your admission letter, medical test results, and other residency paperwork.
7. Enrollment and Orientation
Complete tuition payment or financial aid arrangements.
Register for courses, get your student ID, and attend orientation programs.
Most semesters begin in September (Fall) or February (Spring), depending on the institution.
Kuwait University (KU)
Established: 1966
Kuwait’s flagship public university offering bachelor's, master's, and PhD programs in various fields.
Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET)
Established: 1982
Umbrella institution for applied, technical, and vocational education in Kuwait.
College of Technological Studies (PAAET)
Offers applied engineering, IT, and technical programs.
College of Business Studies (PAAET)
Focuses on accounting, management, finance, and marketing.
College of Basic Education (PAAET)
Trains future teachers and educators, offering programs in education, languages, and humanities.
College of Nursing (PAAET)
Specializes in nursing education and healthcare-related training.
Higher Institute of Musical Arts
Offers specialized training in music, performance, and musicology.
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts
Focused on drama, acting, theater production, and performing arts.
Institute of Banking Studies (IBS)
Provides training and education in banking, finance, and risk management (linked to Central Bank of Kuwait).
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies (KU)
A college under Kuwait University offering Islamic jurisprudence, Quranic studies, and Sharia law.
Faculty of Medicine (Kuwait University)
Offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in medicine and health sciences.
Faculty of Engineering and Petroleum (KU)
One of the oldest and most respected engineering faculties in the region.
Faculty of Law (KU)
Offers law degrees with a focus on Kuwaiti, Islamic, and international legal systems.
Faculty of Pharmacy (KU)
Provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in pharmaceutical sciences.
Faculty of Science (KU)
Covers natural sciences such as chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics.
Faculty of Arts (KU)
Offers programs in humanities, social sciences, and languages.
Faculty of Social Sciences (KU)
Offers psychology, sociology, political science, and related fields.
Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (KU)
Focuses on clinical and laboratory sciences.
Sabah Al-Salem University City
A major campus hub for Kuwait University, hosting multiple faculties and research centers.
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)
A public research organization offering advanced research and limited postgraduate fellowships (not a traditional university but considered part of Kuwait's higher education ecosystem).
American University of Kuwait (AUK)
Established: 2004
Liberal arts model (American system)
Location: Salmiya
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST)
Established: 2002
First private university in Kuwait; affiliated with University of Missouri-St. Louis
Location: Mubarak Al-Abdullah
American University of the Middle East (AUM)
Established: 2007
Offers engineering, business, and design programs
Location: Egaila
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK)
Established: 2004
Australian model; known for aviation and engineering programs
Location: West Mishref
Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST)
Established: 2016
Focus on computer science, IT, and engineering
Location: Doha District
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch
Established: 2002
Offers blended learning programs in partnership with UK Open University
Location: Ardiya
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK) – for Women
Established: 2007
Australian-affiliated; diploma and degree programs
Location: Abu Halifa
Kuwait International Law School (KILAW)
Established: 2014
Specialized in law, public and private international law
Location: Doha
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus
Established: 2015
Canadian-affiliated; diploma programs in business, tech, and design
Location: Al Jahra
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech)
Established: 2014
Offers technical degrees in IT, business, and cybersecurity
Location: Abu Halifa
American College of the Middle East (ACM)
Affiliated with AUM; technical diploma programs
Location: Egaila
The British Academy of International Education (BAIE)
Established: 2018
UK-aligned programs in business and tourism
Location: Salwa
Maastricht School of Management – Kuwait
Established: 2019
Dutch business school offering MBA and executive education
Location: Kuwait City
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS)
Established: 2004
Offers MBA and management-focused master’s degrees
Location: Kuwait City
American Creativity Academy – University Division
Provides American-based higher education extensions
Location: Hawalli
City University College of Ajman – Kuwait Campus (Planned)
A new international campus in development
Location: TBD (provisional approval)
British College of Kuwait (BCK) – Extension Program
Secondary and early tertiary British curriculum
Location: Salwa
Middle East Aviation Academy (Private Aviation Institute)
Offers private aviation diplomas and certifications
Location: Kuwait International Airport
College of Aviation Technology (CAT)
Provides pilot training and aviation engineering programs
Location: Al-Dajeej
Future University in Kuwait (Pending Accreditation)
A proposed private university under planning stages
Location: TBD
Kuwait University (KU)
Type: Public
Notable Bachelor’s Programs: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business, Arts, Pharmacy
Location: Shuwaikh & Sabah Al-Salem University City
American University of Kuwait (AUK)
Type: Private
American liberal arts curriculum
Programs: International Relations, Business Administration, Computer Science, English Literature, Communication
Location: Salmiya
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST)
Type: Private
American-style university affiliated with UMSL
Programs: Business, Computer Science, Mass Communication, English, Finance
Location: Mubarak Al-Abdullah
American University of the Middle East (AUM)
Type: Private
Focuses on engineering, design, and business
Programs: Mechanical Engineering, Graphic Design, Business, Marketing, IT
Location: Egaila
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK)
Type: Private
Offers practical, industry-focused education
Programs: Petroleum Engineering, Aviation, Business Management, Marketing, Mechanical Engineering
Location: West Mishref
Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST)
Type: Private
Strong focus on STEM education
Programs: Computer Science, Information Systems, Electronics, AI, Mathematics
Location: Doha District
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch
Type: Private
Blended learning with UK Open University
Programs: Business Studies, IT, English Language, Educational Studies, Accounting
Location: Ardiya
Kuwait International Law School (KILAW)
Type: Private
Specialized legal education
Programs: Public Law, Private Law, International Law, Islamic Law, Legal Studies
Location: Doha
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK)
Type: Private (Women-only)
Offers diplomas and bachelor’s pathways
Programs: Fashion Design, Business, IT, Media Studies, Education
Location: Abu Halifa
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus
Type: Private
Canadian curriculum
Programs: Business, HR, IT, Graphic Design, Hospitality
Location: Al Jahra
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech)
Type: Private
Career-oriented programs
Programs: Network Engineering, Cybersecurity, Management, Web Development, E-Commerce
Location: Abu Halifa
College of Technological Studies (PAAET)
Type: Public
Technical and vocational programs
Programs: Electronics, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, IT, Mechanics
Location: Shuwaikh
College of Business Studies (PAAET)
Type: Public
Programs: Business Administration, Accounting, Office Management, Economics, Banking
Location: Kuwait City
College of Basic Education (PAAET)
Type: Public
Programs: Elementary Education, Math Teaching, Arabic Language, Islamic Education, Special Education
Location: Ardiya
College of Nursing (PAAET)
Type: Public
Programs: General Nursing, Midwifery, Public Health Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Emergency Care
Location: Shuwaikh
Higher Institute of Musical Arts
Type: Public
Programs: Music Education, Composition, Instrumental Performance, Music Theory, Conducting
Location: Jabriya
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts
Type: Public
Programs: Acting, Directing, Set Design, Scriptwriting, Theatre Studies
Location: Kuwait City
The British Academy for International Education (BAIE)
Type: Private
UK-aligned business and tourism education
Programs: Business Administration, Hospitality, Law, Tourism, Marketing
Location: Salwa
Middle East Aviation Academy (Private)
Type: Private
Aviation training
Programs: Pilot Training, Aviation Management, Aircraft Maintenance, Air Traffic Control, Safety Systems
Location: Kuwait International Airport
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies (KU)
Type: Public
Programs: Islamic Law, Quranic Studies, Arabic Language, Fiqh, Comparative Religion
Location: Adailiya
Kuwait University (KU)
Type: Public
Programs: Education, Engineering, Business Administration (MBA), Law, Sciences, Pharmacy, Social Sciences
Kuwait’s only public university offering a wide range of accredited master's and PhD programs
Location: Shuwaikh & Sabah Al-Salem University City
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST)
Type: Private
Programs: MBA, English Education, Computer Science, Media Studies, Instructional Technology
Location: Mubarak Al-Abdullah
American University of Kuwait (AUK)
Type: Private
Programs: MBA, English Literature, International Affairs, Communication
Location: Salmiya
American University of the Middle East (AUM)
Type: Private
Programs: MBA, Engineering Management, Systems Engineering, Industrial Design
Location: Egaila
Maastricht School of Management – Kuwait
Type: Private (Dutch-affiliated)
Programs: MBA, Executive MBA, Management, Finance, Strategy
Location: Kuwait City
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS)
Type: Private
Programs: MBA, Human Resource Management, Finance, Strategic Management
Location: Kuwait City
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch
Type: Private (Blended Learning)
Programs: MBA, Computer Science, Education, English Language Studies
Location: Ardiya
Kuwait International Law School (KILAW)
Type: Private
Programs: Master of Public Law, Master of Private Law, International Law, Islamic Law
Location: Doha, Kuwait
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK)
Type: Private
Programs: Master of Engineering Management, Master of Business Administration (in development/limited offering)
Location: West Mishref
Institute of Banking Studies (IBS)
Type: Public/Semi-public
Programs: Finance, Banking, Risk Management, Executive Education
Primarily serves banking professionals and postgraduate learners
Location: Kuwait City
Faculty of Medicine – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: MSc in Medical Sciences, Clinical Pharmacology, Public Health
Location: Jabriya
Faculty of Law – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: LLM in Public Law, LLM in Private Law
Location: Shuwaikh
Faculty of Engineering – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: Master’s in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Petroleum, Chemical Engineering
Location: Sabah Al-Salem University City
Faculty of Pharmacy – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Clinical Pharmacy
Location: Jabriya
Faculty of Education – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education
Location: Khaldiya Campus
Faculty of Social Sciences – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: Master’s in Sociology, Political Science, Psychology, Social Work
Location: Shuwaikh
Faculty of Science – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Programs: Master’s in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Geology
Location: Sabah Al-Salem University City
The British Academy for International Education (BAIE) (Emerging)
Type: Private
Programs: Executive diplomas and postgraduate certificates in management and tourism (future expansion to master’s planned)
Location: Salwa
College of Graduate Studies – Kuwait University
Type: Public
Administrative body coordinating graduate education across KU’s faculties
Offers joint interdisciplinary and research-based master's degrees
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) (Non-traditional)
Type: Public Research Institution
Programs: Postgraduate fellowships and research programs; supports KU master’s/PhD candidates
Location: Kuwait City
Kuwait University (KU)
Type: Public
Status: The only university in Kuwait offering a broad range of accredited PhD programs.
PhD Fields: Law, Education, Engineering, Social Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Arabic Language, Islamic Studies
Location: Shuwaikh, Sabah Al-Salem University City
Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)
Type: Public Research Institute
Status: Offers PhD-level research projects and supports graduate theses in partnership with Kuwait University
Fields: Environmental Science, Water Research, Energy, Biotechnology
Location: Kuwait City
Faculty of Graduate Studies – Kuwait University
Role: Coordinates all doctoral programs under KU’s various faculties
Focus: Interdisciplinary research and doctoral education policy
Faculty of Law – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Public Law, Private Law, Islamic Jurisprudence
Language: Primarily Arabic
Location: Shuwaikh
Faculty of Education – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Curriculum & Instruction, Educational Leadership, Special Education, Psychology
Location: Khaldiya Campus
Faculty of Engineering – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Petroleum Engineering
Research-driven and requires master's degree with thesis
Location: Sabah Al-Salem University City
Faculty of Social Sciences – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Sociology, Political Science, Psychology
Focus: Applied research, surveys, and field studies
Location: Shuwaikh
Faculty of Arts – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Arabic Literature, History, Philosophy, Islamic Civilization
Location: Shuwaikh
Faculty of Sharia and Islamic Studies – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Sharia Law, Fiqh, Quranic Sciences, Comparative Religion
Location: Adailiya
Faculty of Science – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Earth & Environment Sciences
Research-oriented, often in collaboration with KISR
Location: Sabah Al-Salem University City
Faculty of Pharmacy – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Pharmaceutical Sciences, Drug Development
Research-led with clinical integration
Location: Jabriya
Faculty of Medicine – Kuwait University
PhD Programs: Medical Sciences, Public Health, Clinical Pharmacology
Often in partnership with Ministry of Health and international institutions
Location: Jabriya
Faculty of Dentistry – Kuwait University (Emerging)
Offers research-based doctoral tracks in oral sciences and dental biomaterials
Location: Jabriya
Kuwait International Law School (KILAW)
Type: Private
Status: Offers structured doctoral-level legal research pathways (limited and under specific approvals)
Location: Doha
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch (Future Development)
Currently offers master’s programs, but has proposed PhD programs in education and computing in collaboration with UK partners
Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST) (Under Development)
Planning doctoral-level research centers in AI, Data Science, and Cybersecurity (subject to PUC approval)
Maastricht School of Management – Kuwait (Post-MBA Doctorates Pending)
May offer DBA (Doctorate of Business Administration) programs in future under partnership with Netherlands campus
Location: Kuwait City
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS) (DBA programs in development)
Long-term plan to offer DBA programs for professionals, pending national accreditation
Location: Kuwait City
Public Authority for Applied Education & Training (PAAET)
Role: Primarily vocational, but supports applied research in education and technology
Some staff and researchers pursue PhDs via KU or international programs
Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS)
Type: Governmental R&D body
Not a university, but funds PhD research and scholarships for study in Kuwait and abroad
Fields: Applied science, innovation, technology
Type: Public
Programs: BSc in Computer Science, BSc in Information Science, MSc in CS, PhD in CS (under Science Faculty)
Highlights: Strong research focus, recognized degrees, government-funded labs, and competitive admission.
Location: Shuwaikh & Sabah Al-Salem University City
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Computer Science, BSc in MIS, MSc in Computer Science
Highlights: American-style curriculum, strong partnerships, modern labs, good for both theory and applied tech.
Location: Mubarak Al-Abdullah
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Computer Science, Minor in Information Systems
Highlights: Liberal arts approach, good faculty-to-student ratio, small class sizes, strong software focus.
Location: Salmiya
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Computer Science, BSc in Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity (planned)
Highlights: Entirely focused on STEM, strong infrastructure for tech, modern curriculum aligned with industry trends.
Location: Doha District
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Computer Engineering, IT Management
Highlights: High-quality campus, integrated business-tech programs, strong for applied computing.
Location: Egaila
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Information Systems Technology, Diploma in IT
Highlights: Industry-focused training, internships, and hands-on projects.
Location: West Mishref
Type: Private
Programs: BSc in Information Technology and Computing, MSc in Computer Science (blended)
Highlights: UK-affiliated distance learning, flexible for working students
Location: Ardiya
Type: Private
Programs: Associate/Bachelor's in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Network Engineering
Highlights: Career-oriented, fast-track diplomas, strong technical skill development
Location: Abu Halifa
Type: Private (Canadian-affiliated)
Programs: Diploma and Bachelor's in Computer Systems Technician, Networking, IT Support
Highlights: Vocational training, industry certifications, Canadian curriculum
Location: Al Jahra
Type: Public
Programs: Associate & Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering Technology, IT Support
Highlights: Affordable, practical, accessible to nationals and residents
Location: Shuwaikh
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor's (Biz/Econ) |
MBA / Master's Programs |
PhD |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University (KU) |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Business Admin, Accounting, Economics |
MBA, MSc in Economics, Finance, Marketing |
Yes |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
2 |
Gulf University for Sci. & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
2 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
BBA, Finance, MIS, Economics |
MBA, Management, Marketing, MIS |
No |
3,500–4,500 |
~70% |
|
3 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
3 |
Private |
Salmiya |
BBA, Intl. Business, Economics |
MBA, Intl. Affairs, Strategic Mgmt |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
4 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
4 |
Private |
Egaila |
Business Admin, Finance, HRM |
MBA, Eng. Mgmt, Strategic Planning |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
5 |
Maastricht School of Mgmt – Kuwait |
2019 |
5 |
Private |
Kuwait City |
(Postgrad only) |
MBA, Exec. MBA, Finance, Strategy |
No |
5,000–6,500 |
~60% |
|
6 |
Kuwait Maastricht Business School (KMBS) |
2004 |
6 |
Private |
Kuwait City |
(Postgrad only) |
MBA, HRM, Strategic Mgmt |
No |
5,000–6,000 |
~55% |
|
7 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
7 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Business Mgmt, Marketing, HRM |
MBA (limited offering in development) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
8 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
8 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Business Studies, Economics |
MBA, HR, Finance |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
9 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
9 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Business Admin, Marketing, HRM |
(No MBA – diploma only) |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
10 |
College of Business Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
10 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Accounting, Mgmt, Banking |
(No MBA – undergrad only) |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor’s Programs (Eng/Sci/Tech) |
Master’s (MS) Programs |
PhD |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University (KU) |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Engineering, Science, Math, CS, Env. Science |
Civil, Mech., Elec., Chem. Eng., Physics, CS |
Yes |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
2 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
2 |
Private |
Egaila |
Mech., Elec., CS, Industrial Eng., Tech Mgmt. |
MS in Systems Engineering, Eng. Mgmt. |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
3 |
Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) |
2002 |
3 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
CS, MIS, Applied Math |
MS in Computer Science, Instructional Tech |
No |
3,500–4,500 |
~70% |
|
4 |
Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST) |
2016 |
4 |
Private |
Doha District |
CS, IT, Electronics, Math |
MS programs in AI/Data Science (planned) |
No |
3,500–4,000 |
~80% |
|
5 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
5 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Mech., Elec., Petroleum, Aviation |
MS in Engineering Management (limited) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
6 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
6 |
Private |
Ardiya |
IT, Computing, Systems Engineering |
MSc in Computing, IT, Networks |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
7 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
7 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Network Eng., Cybersecurity, IT, Software |
No formal MS yet – diplomas only |
No |
2,500–3,500 |
~85% |
|
8 |
Faculty of Science – Kuwait University |
N/A |
8 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Physics, Chemistry, Math, Geology |
MSc in Chemistry, Physics, Math, Env. Sci. |
Yes |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
9 |
College of Technological Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
9 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Elec., Mech., IT, Telecom, Automotive |
No MS – offers technical diplomas only |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
|
10 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
10 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
IT, Programming, Networking, Sys. Admin |
No MS – diploma-level only |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Medicine |
1973 |
1 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Medicine (MBBS), Basic Medical Sciences |
MSc in Medical Sciences, Public Health |
PhD in Medical Sciences |
100–500 |
~50% |
|
2 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Pharmacy |
1997 |
2 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Pharmacy (BPharm), Clinical Pharmacy |
MSc in Pharm. Sciences, Clinical Pharm. |
PhD in Pharmacy |
100–500 |
~55% |
|
3 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Allied Health Sciences |
1982 |
3 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Medical Lab Sci., Physio, Radiologic Tech, Nutrition |
MSc in Health Science |
PhD in select areas |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
4 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Dentistry |
1996 |
4 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Dentistry (BDS) |
MSc in Oral Biology, Restorative Dentistry |
PhD (planned) |
100–500 |
~45% |
|
5 |
College of Nursing (PAAET) |
1976 |
5 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
General Nursing, Pediatric Nursing, Midwifery |
No formal Master’s |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~55% |
|
6 |
Faculty of Public Health – Kuwait University |
2014 |
6 |
Public |
Jabriya |
(Postgrad-focused) |
MSc in Public Health, Epidemiology |
Under KU Grad School |
100–500 |
~50% |
|
7 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
7 |
Private |
Egaila |
Health Informatics, Biomedical Tech (Engineering) |
Limited health-related MSc |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
8 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
8 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Safety & Health Engineering (via Eng. Faculty) |
No formal health MSc |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
9 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
9 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Health Studies (within Education/IT tracks) |
No direct health MSc |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
10 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
10 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Health Admin, Community Health (Diploma level) |
No MSc programs |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor’s Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Arts |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Arabic Lit., English, Philosophy, History, Geography |
MA in Arabic, English, Philosophy, History |
Yes (Humanities Fields) |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
2 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
2 |
Private |
Salmiya |
English Lit., Intl. Relations, Comm., History |
MA in English, Intl. Affairs, Communication |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
3 |
Gulf University for Science & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
3 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
English, Mass Comm., Translation, Social Studies |
MA in English, Mass Communication |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~70% |
|
4 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
4 |
Private |
Ardiya |
English Lang. & Lit., Education, Comm. Studies |
MA in English Language, Educational Studies |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
5 |
Higher Institute of Musical Arts |
2002 |
5 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Music, Musicology, Arabic Music, Performance |
No formal MA |
No |
Free / Subsidized |
~50% |
|
6 |
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts |
1973 |
6 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Acting, Directing, Scriptwriting, Stage Design |
No formal MA |
No |
Free / Subsidized |
~60% |
|
7 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Social Sciences |
1977 |
7 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Sociology, Psychology, Political Science, Geography |
MA in Sociology, Psychology, Political Science |
Yes (select programs) |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
8 |
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies (KU) |
1976 |
8 |
Public |
Adailiya |
Islamic Studies, Quranic Studies, Arabic |
MA in Islamic Law, Comparative Religion |
No |
Free / Subsidized |
~70% |
|
9 |
The British Academy of International Ed. (BAIE) |
2018 |
9 |
Private |
Salwa |
Intl. Tourism, Intl. Law, Humanities-related Business |
No master’s yet (in development) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
|
10 |
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK) – Women |
2007 |
10 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Fashion Design, Art Studies, Media Studies |
No master’s |
No |
2,000–3,000 |
~85% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master's Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Arts |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Mass Communication, Journalism, PR |
MA in Mass Communication |
No |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
2 |
Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) |
2002 |
2 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
Mass Communication, Digital Media, Journalism |
MA in Mass Communication |
No |
3,500–4,500 |
~70% |
|
3 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
3 |
Private |
Salmiya |
Communication & Media, Journalism, PR |
MA in Strategic Communication |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
4 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
4 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Media Studies, Communication |
MA in Media & English Language |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
5 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
5 |
Private |
Egaila |
Graphic Design, Digital Media |
No formal MA in Media |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
6 |
The British Academy of Int'l Education (BAIE) |
2018 |
6 |
Private |
Salwa |
Media, PR, Int’l Communication (Business-focused) |
No MA (planned) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
|
7 |
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK) – Women |
2007 |
7 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Media Production, Visual Arts, PR |
No master’s |
No |
2,000–3,000 |
~85% |
|
8 |
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts |
1973 |
8 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Drama, Stage Production, Scriptwriting (Media-art) |
No formal MA |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~60% |
|
9 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
9 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Media Tech, Digital Marketing, Graphic Design |
No master’s |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
10 |
Kuwait College of Science & Technology (KCST) |
2016 |
10 |
Private |
Doha |
Limited offerings (Digital Comm. electives only) |
No master’s |
No |
3,000–4,000 |
~80% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor’s Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
The British Academy for Int'l Education (BAIE) |
2018 |
1 |
Private |
Salwa |
Hospitality Mgmt, Intl. Tourism, Event Planning |
Not yet (MBA planned) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
|
2 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
2 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Hospitality & Tourism Mgmt (Diploma & Bachelor’s) |
No |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
3 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
3 |
Private |
Egaila |
Business with specialization in Events/Tourism |
No specific program |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
4 |
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK) – Women |
2007 |
4 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Diploma in Hospitality, Event Mgmt, Travel Services |
No |
No |
2,000–3,000 |
~85% |
|
5 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
5 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Business with Tourism electives |
No |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
6 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
6 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Business with Travel & Hospitality modules |
No |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
7 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
7 |
Private |
Salmiya |
Business Admin with electives in Tourism/Event Mgt |
No |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
8 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
8 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Applied Diploma in Event Planning & Tourism Basics |
No |
No |
2,500–3,500 |
~80% |
|
9 |
Gulf University for Science & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
9 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
Marketing & Intl. Business with Tourism options |
No |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~70% |
|
10 |
College of Business Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
10 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Business Admin (Limited hospitality modules) |
No |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
1 |
Private |
Egaila |
Graphic Design, Interior Design, Visual Comm. |
MSc in Design (Planned) |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
2 |
Box Hill College Kuwait (BHCK) – Women |
2007 |
2 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Fashion Design, Interior Design, Art & Media |
No |
No |
2,000–3,000 |
~85% |
|
3 |
Higher Institute of Musical Arts |
2002 |
3 |
Public |
Jabriya |
Music Performance, Composition, Music Education |
No |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~50% |
|
4 |
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts |
1973 |
4 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Acting, Directing, Set Design, Costume Design |
No |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~60% |
|
5 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
5 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Graphic Design, Media Design (via Eng./Business) |
No |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
6 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
6 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Graphic Design, Media Design, Digital Illustration |
No |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
7 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
7 |
Private |
Salmiya |
Visual Arts (Minor), Comm. Design (Electives) |
No |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
8 |
Gulf University for Science & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
8 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
Digital Media, Communication, Visual Culture |
No |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~70% |
|
9 |
The British Academy for Int’l Ed. (BAIE) |
2018 |
9 |
Private |
Salwa |
Visual Arts, Fashion Business, Event Design |
No |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
|
10 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
10 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Art and Media through blended learning tracks |
No |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor's Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Engineering & Petroleum |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Shuwaikh / Sabah Al-Salem |
Civil Eng., Architecture, Structural Eng. |
MSc in Civil Eng., Architecture |
Yes |
100–500 |
~55% |
|
2 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
2 |
Private |
Egaila |
Architectural Design, Civil Eng., Construction Mgmt. |
MSc in Engineering Management (Building Focus) |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
3 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
3 |
Private |
West Mishref |
Construction Mgmt., Civil & Mech. Eng. |
MS Eng. Mgmt (limited offering) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
4 |
Kuwait College of Science and Technology (KCST) |
2016 |
4 |
Private |
Doha |
Civil & Structural Engineering (planned), CS-related |
MS in AI & Eng. (future offering) |
No |
3,000–4,000 |
~80% |
|
5 |
College of Technological Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
5 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Civil Eng. Tech, Construction Tech., Architecture Drafting |
No master’s offered |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
|
6 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
6 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Construction Safety, Tech. Project Mgmt. (Diploma) |
No |
No |
2,500–3,500 |
~85% |
|
7 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
7 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Business with Facilities/Project Mgmt. focus (limited) |
No |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
8 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
8 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Drafting & Building Codes (Diploma), CAD Design |
No |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
9 |
Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) |
2002 |
9 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
No direct arch./const. degree – business/project mgmt focus |
No master’s in construction |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~70% |
|
10 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
10 |
Private |
Salmiya |
Minor in Environmental Studies with urban planning link |
No formal architecture/construction programs |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor’s Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University – Faculty of Law |
1967 |
1 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
Law (LLB), Public Law, Private Law |
LLM in Public/Private Law, Islamic Law |
PhD in Law |
100–500 |
~50% |
|
2 |
Kuwait International Law School (KILAW) |
2014 |
2 |
Private |
Doha |
LLB, Islamic Law, International Law |
LLM in Public Law, Intl. Law |
PhD in Law (select tracks) |
2,500–3,500 |
~70% |
|
3 |
The College of Sharia & Islamic Studies (KU) |
1976 |
3 |
Public |
Adailiya |
Sharia Law, Islamic Jurisprudence |
MA in Islamic Law, Quranic Law |
PhD in Sharia Law |
Free/Subsidized |
~70% |
|
4 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
4 |
Private |
Ardiya |
Legal Studies (within Governance & Business tracks) |
No formal LLM |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
5 |
Gulf University for Science & Technology (GUST) |
2002 |
5 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
Law (minor), Legal Writing, Intl. Business Law |
No formal Law master's |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~70% |
|
6 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
6 |
Private |
Salmiya |
Law (minor), Political Science, Intl. Relations |
No formal Law master’s |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
7 |
The British Academy for Int'l Education (BAIE) |
2018 |
7 |
Private |
Salwa |
International Law, Business Law, Human Rights Law |
No LLM yet (under development) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~90% |
|
8 |
Higher Institute for Legal & Judicial Studies (Govt.) |
1990s |
8 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Judicial Training Programs (Postgrad Only) |
Professional Diplomas for Legal Practice |
No |
Govt.-funded |
~50% (selective) |
|
9 |
College of Business Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
9 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
Legal Admin & Office Law (Diploma-level) |
No |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
|
10 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
10 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Legal & Business Admin (Paralegal focus) |
No |
No |
2,500–3,500 |
~85% |
No. |
University / College |
Est. |
Rank |
Type |
City |
Bachelor’s Programs |
Master’s Programs |
PhD Programs |
Avg. Fees (KWD/Yr) |
Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Kuwait University (KU) |
1966 |
1 |
Public |
Kuwait City |
BSc in CS, Info Sci, Math |
MSc in CS, Data Analytics |
Yes |
100–500 |
~60% |
|
2 |
Gulf University for Sci. & Tech. (GUST) |
2002 |
2 |
Private |
Mubarak Al-Abdullah |
BSc in CS, MIS |
MSc in CS, Instructional Tech |
No |
3,500–4,500 |
~70% |
|
3 |
American University of Kuwait (AUK) |
2004 |
3 |
Private |
Salmiya |
BSc in CS, Minor in Data Science |
MS in Computer Science (Planned) |
No |
3,500–5,000 |
~65% |
|
4 |
Kuwait College of Science & Technology (KCST) |
2016 |
4 |
Private |
Doha |
BSc in CS, AI, Software Eng., Cybersecurity |
MSc in AI/Data Science (Upcoming) |
No |
3,500–4,000 |
~80% |
|
5 |
Arab Open University – Kuwait Branch |
2002 |
5 |
Private |
Ardiya |
BSc in IT & Computing (AI, Data, Networks tracks) |
MSc in Computing |
No |
1,000–1,500 |
~85% |
|
6 |
American University of the Middle East (AUM) |
2007 |
6 |
Private |
Egaila |
BSc in Computer Eng., IT Mgmt |
MS in Systems Eng. with Data modules |
No |
4,000–6,000 |
~60% |
|
7 |
Australian College of Kuwait (ACK) |
2004 |
7 |
Private |
West Mishref |
BSc in IT Systems, Networking, Programming |
MSc in IT Mgmt (planned) |
No |
3,000–4,500 |
~75% |
|
8 |
Kuwait Technical College (K-Tech) |
2014 |
8 |
Private |
Abu Halifa |
Cybersecurity, Network Eng., AI Certs |
No formal MSc |
No |
2,500–3,500 |
~85% |
|
9 |
Algonquin College – Kuwait Campus |
2015 |
9 |
Private |
Al Jahra |
Diploma in CS, AI Modules, IT Support |
No MSc – Canadian curriculum |
No |
2,500–3,000 |
~85% |
|
10 |
College of Technological Studies (PAAET) |
1982 |
10 |
Public |
Shuwaikh |
CS, IT, Programming (Diploma & Bachelor’s) |
No master’s |
No |
Free/Subsidized |
~65% |
Kuwait University (KU)
Kuwait’s flagship public university.
Offers free tuition for Kuwaiti citizens across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.
Public Authority for Applied Education and Training (PAAET)
Oversees multiple public colleges offering applied and technical education.
Free for Kuwaiti nationals; subsidized for residents.
College of Technological Studies (PAAET)
Provides technical bachelor’s and diploma programs in engineering and IT fields.
College of Business Studies (PAAET)
Offers free business-related programs like accounting, marketing, and finance.
College of Basic Education (PAAET)
Focuses on teacher training and education programs.
College of Nursing (PAAET)
Provides free nursing programs and related healthcare training.
Higher Institute of Musical Arts
Offers specialized programs in music, performance, and composition.
Tuition-free for nationals.
Higher Institute of Theatre Arts
Offers bachelor’s programs in drama, theater, acting, and production.
The College of Sharia and Islamic Studies (KU)
Offers Islamic studies, Arabic, and Sharia law programs.
Free for Kuwaitis.
Faculty of Medicine – Kuwait University
MBBS and related medical science programs.
Free for Kuwaiti students.
Faculty of Pharmacy – Kuwait University
Bachelor’s and graduate programs in pharmaceutical sciences.
Faculty of Dentistry – Kuwait University
Dentistry education for Kuwaiti students without tuition.
Faculty of Law – Kuwait University
Offers free legal education for nationals at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Faculty of Engineering and Petroleum – Kuwait University
Free tuition for Kuwaitis in engineering and petroleum programs.
Faculty of Science – Kuwait University
Includes departments like biology, chemistry, math, physics, and geology.
