Qatar

Qatar

Quick Facts & Figures

  • capital

    Doha
  • language

    Arabic, English
  • currency

    QR (Qatari Riyal)
  • government

    Monarchy
  • religion

    Muslim
  • weather

    Subtropical
  • timezone

    (GMT + 3)
  • internet domain

    qa

Qatar, officially known as the State of Qatar, is an independent emirate (Arabic Islamic monarchy) in the Gulf region. The country is known for having one of the largest natural gas and oil reserves in the world. Despite being one of the smallest countries geographically (approximately 100 miles north to south, 50 miles east to west), Qatar has used its oil and gas reserves to become one of the richest countries in the world.

Qatar is an Islamic country so the traditions of the religion are practiced. Alcohol and pork can only be bought and consumed in specific places. Ramadan, Islam’s most holy month is also practiced.

Qatar is also diverse with the Qataris not even being the largest population in the country. There are a large number of Indians and Nepalese, followed by Bangladeshis, Filipinos, Egyptians, and other Asian countries.

 

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Studying in Qatar

Why should I study in the country?
Qatar is dedicated to its education. Doha, capital of Qatar, is where Education City is located. The City is home to various Qatar educational institutions and other foreign colleges and universities.

Qatar is also friendly to other nations and actually takes pride on their tolerance for the beliefs and cultures of others. The ruling emir of Qatar has stated that other nations can find security and a dignified livelihood in Qatar. This is evidenced by the huge number of international students and foreigners in Education City.
 
What are the requirements for studying at a school in Qatar?
Generally, schools in Qatar require the following:
  • Complete Online Admissions Application
  • Official and certified high school transcript
  • Health Certificate issued inside Qatar
  • Photocopy of the applicant's ID card
  • Two (2) recent identical passport size photographs (size 4 x 6 cm) with white background
  • Official test score reports for applicants to Colleges that require Foundation Program
What are the required languages for studying in Qatar?
The majority of the people speak English and almost all programs offered in schools are taught in English. It is not required to learn Arabic but there are courses offered for non-native speakers to learn the language.
 
How do I get a visa?
Studying in Qatar will require a visa. Here are the requirements:
  • Sponsorship (from your chosen university)
  • Birth certificate
  • Medical certificate proving good health
  • Proof of funds to cover your stay
  • Clear police report
Qatar Universities provide students with sponsorship for them to enter the country on a 30-day visa. Upon arrival, students can request the immigration office of the school they are applying to to obtain a residence permit.
 
How do I choose a school in Qatar?
There is an endless array of schools and programs available to Filipino students looking to pursue their studies in Qatar. Qatar is home to the Education City and has several world-renown universities who have started campuses in Qatar, as well as Qatar Universities that are globally-competitive in their own right. Choosing your school will be based on the subject you're interested in because the schools in Qatar are great!
Are there scholarships available? How can I finance my studies?
There are many scholarships offered by both the government of Qatar and the schools themselves. Visit the Edukasyon profiles of the schools you are interested in to check if they are offering any scholarships.

There are also some international student loans available from different loan giving bodies. University representatives usually work in tandem with their financial aid department that focuses on helping students find options to finance their education. Explore our partner schools here, and click "Send Inquiry" to get connected with your university representative.
 

Living in Qatar

How much is the cost of living in Qatar?
For average prices, a liter of milk costs 6QR, loaf of bread and a kilogram of rice both costs 6QR, a dozon of eggs cost 10QR, and a kg of chicken or beef costs around 27QR. Eating at a restaurant costs around 25QR and fastfood meal costs around 23QR. Rent for a single bedroom apartment (including utilities) in the city center costs about 6000QR, and 5000QR for apartments outside the city center.
 
What is the lifestyle like in Qatar?
Qatar is an Islamic country so all traditions of the religion are being practiced. The country, though, is more liberal to gender compared to other Islamic countries. Qatar is also open to foreign traditions and cultures but it still best to respect the locals’ traditions. For example, there is no dress code for foreigners but it is advised to wear more conservative clothing.

Courtesy is also highly valued in Qatar. Men should be addressed as “Sayyed”, meaning sir, followed by their full name. Women should be addressed as “Sayeeda”, meaning Madam
 
Are there Filipinos living in Qatar?
Filipinos are one of the largest foreign groups in Qatar with a population of more than 200,000.
 

Working in Qatar

Can I work while I’m studying in Qatar?
Your student visa does not allow you to work while studying in Qatar.
 
What are the benefits of graduating from a school in Qatar?
Graduating from Qatar will make you eligible to work in the country after securing a work permit. The country is one of the richest in the world so it offers great opportunities to work with its top companies.