Education in Qatar

Qatar has rapidly emerged as one of the most advanced education hubs in the Middle East. With world-class schools, globally recognized universities, government-backed scholarships, and strong investments in research, Qatar is now a preferred destination for both local and international students.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about the education system in Qatar — from schools and universities to costs, scholarships, and opportunities.

Overview of the Education System in Qatar

The education system in Qatar is divided into four main levels:

1. Pre-Primary / Kindergarten (Ages 3–6)

2. Primary Education (Grades 1 to 6)

3. Secondary Education (Grades 7 to 12)

4. Higher Education (Universities & Research Institutions)

• The Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE) regulates all government and private schools.

• Qatar follows both national curriculum standards and international curriculums like IB, British, American, Indian, and French.

• Education is free for Qatari citizens in public schools.

• Expatriates can choose from 320+ private and international schools.

Education in Qatar 2025

Education in Qatar is supervised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MOEHE). Schooling is compulsory and free for Qatari nationals in government schools, but since the majority of Qatar’s population is expatriate, international schools are in high demand.

Over the years, Qatar has invested heavily in education. It is home to Education City, a massive hub where top international universities like Georgetown, Carnegie Mellon, and Northwestern have campuses. This commitment to education also reflects in the quality of schooling offered at primary and secondary levels.

Schools in Qatar

Qatar has quickly become one of the most attractive destinations for families from all over the world. With its booming economy, world-class infrastructure, and growing expatriate community, education has become a top priority in the country. Parents moving to Qatar often have one important question in mind: What kind of schools are available, and how do I choose the right one for my child?

Types of Schools in Qatar

There are three main types of schools in Qatar:

a) Public (Government) Schools

• Funded and managed by the Qatari government.

• Free for Qatari citizens, but not always open to expatriates.

• Arabic is the main language of instruction.

• Focuses on Qatari culture, religion, and traditions.

b) Private Schools

• Cater to both locals and expats.

• Offer a variety of international curriculums.

• English is often the medium of instruction.

• Popular choice for expatriate families.

c) International Schools

• Specifically designed for expat communities.

• Follow foreign education systems (British, American, Indian, IB, etc.).

• Provide multicultural learning environments.

• Generally higher in fees compared to public schools.

Popular Curriculums in Qatar

One of the biggest advantages of living in Qatar is the wide choice of curriculums. Here are the most common ones:

• British Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels) – Popular among expats from the UK and beyond.

• American Curriculum – Flexible and widely recognized worldwide.

• Indian Curriculum (CBSE, ICSE) – Chosen by the large Indian community in Qatar.

• International Baccalaureate (IB) – Globally respected, encourages critical thinking and research skills.

• Qatari National Curriculum – Focused on Arabic language, Islamic studies, and Qatari culture.

• Other Curriculums – French, German, Filipino, Pakistani, and more, reflecting Qatar’s diversity.

School Fees in Qatar

School fees in Qatar vary widely depending on the school type and curriculum. On average:

• Government schools: Free for Qatari nationals.

• Private/International schools: QAR 15,000 – QAR 70,000 per year (approx. $4,000 – $19,000).

• Additional costs may include transportation, uniforms, books, and extracurricular activities.

It’s always best to check directly with schools, as fees are approved by the Ministry and can differ based on grade level.

Admission Process

Admission requirements differ by school, but typically include:

• Completed application form.

• Previous school reports (1–2 years).

• Copy of passport, residence permit, and ID.

• Entrance test or interview (especially for higher grades).

• Application fees (non-refundable).

Tip: Apply early! Many schools in Qatar have waiting lists, especially the popular ones

Top Universities in Qatar (2025)

Higher Education in Qatar

Qatar is home to some of the world’s top universities, especially within Education City, managed by the Qatar Foundation.

Notable universities in Education City:

• Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar

• Georgetown University in Qatar

• Northwestern University in Qatar

• Texas A&M University at Qatar

• Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar

Other universities outside Education City:

• Qatar University (national university)

• University of Calgary in Qatar

• College of the North Atlantic – Qatar

Scholarships in Qatar (2025)

Qatar provides generous scholarship programs for local and international students:

Scholarship Name	University / Provider
Qatar University Scholarships	Qatar University
HBKU Scholarships	Hamad Bin Khalifa University
Doha Institute for Graduate Studies Scholarships	Doha Institute (DI)
Qatar Foundation Scholarships	Qatar Foundation & partner universities
Qatar Government Scholarships	Government of Qatar
Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar Scholarships	Weill Cornell Medical College
Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar Financial Aid	Carnegie Mellon University – Qatar
Georgetown University in Qatar Scholarships	Georgetown University – Qatar
Texas A&M University Qatar Scholarships	Texas A&M University – Qatar
Ooredoo Qatar Scholarships	Ooredoo Foundation
Qatar Airways Scholarships	Qatar Airways
Sidra Medicine Scholarships	Sidra Medicine
Qatar Academy Scholarships	Qatar Foundation Schools
Al-Qasimi Foundation Scholarships	Al-Qasimi & Qatar partners

Cost of Education in Qatar

School Costs

• Public schools: Free for Qataris

• International schools: QAR 15,000 – QAR 70,000 per year

• Additional costs: books, uniforms, transport

University Costs

• Public universities: Free for citizens

• Private & international universities: QAR 40,000 – QAR 90,000/year

Opportunities After Graduation

Qatar’s booming economy offers students career opportunities in sectors like:

• Engineering & Energy

• AI & Technology

• Healthcare

• Media & Journalism

• Finance & Business

Graduates from top Qatari universities are highly employable both locally and globally.

Admission Process

Most schools and universities in Qatar follow a similar admission procedure:

For Schools:

• Online application submission.

• Previous school reports.

• Passport, QID, and residence permit copies.

• Entrance tests/interviews for higher grades.

• Application fee (non-refundable).

For Universities:

• Online registration via university portals.

• Academic transcripts.

• English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL).

• Personal statement or SOP (for certain programs).

Why Choose Qatar for Education?

• World-class universities

• Strong government support for research & innovation

• Global exposure via Education City

• Generous scholarships

• Safe and multicultural environment

• High-quality living standards

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Education in Qatar

Q1. Is education free in Qatar?

Yes, education in Qatar is free for Qatari citizens in government schools. However, expatriate students usually attend private or international schools, which charge tuition fees.

Q2. Which curriculum is best in Qatar?

It depends on your future plans:

• British Curriculum (IGCSE/A-Levels) – Globally recognized and structured.

• American Curriculum – Flexible and widely accepted in universities worldwide.

• CBSE/ICSE (Indian) – Affordable and preferred by Indian families.

• International Baccalaureate (IB) – Best for critical thinking and global exposure.

Q3. What are the most popular schools in Qatar?

Some of the top schools in Qatar include:

• Doha College

• American School of Doha

• Qatar Academy

• Doha British School

• Birla Public School

• DPS Modern Indian School

Q4. How much are school fees in Qatar?

Fees vary depending on the school and curriculum:

• Kindergarten: QAR 10,000 – 25,000

• Primary: QAR 15,000 – 40,000

• Secondary: QAR 25,000 – 90,000

Q5. Are there scholarships available for students in Qatar?

Yes. Some universities and schools offer scholarships based on merit and financial need.

• Qatar University Scholarships

• Qatar Foundation Scholarships

• Education City-based universities provide financial aid.

Q6. Are there international schools for expats in Qatar?

Yes. Qatar has 100+ international schools offering British, American, Indian, IB, German, French, Filipino, and other curriculums designed for expatriate families.

Q7. What is the admission process for schools in Qatar?

The general process includes:

1. Online application submission.

2. Previous school report cards.

3. Passport, QID, and residence permit copies.

4. Entrance test or interview (for higher grades).

5. Non-refundable registration fees.

Q8. When do schools in Qatar start their academic year?

• Most schools: Academic year begins in August or September and ends in June.

• Indian schools (CBSE/ICSE): Academic year runs April to March.

Q9. What are the school timings in Qatar?

• Most schools operate Sunday to Thursday.

• Timings are usually 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM.

• Some schools offer after-school activities until 3:00 PM.

Q10. What documents are required for school admission?

• Child’s passport & QID copies

• Parents’ passport & QID copies

• Previous school reports

• Birth certificate

• Immunization records

• Passport-size photographs

Q11. Are there government schools for expatriates in Qatar?

Yes, a few government schools accept expatriate students, but priority is given to Qatari nationals. Most expat families prefer private or international schools.

Q12. Which are the best universities in Qatar?

Top universities include:

• Qatar University

• Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar

• Georgetown University in Qatar

• Texas A&M University at Qatar

• Weill Cornell Medicine – Qatar

• Northwestern University in Qatar

Q13. Is higher education in Qatar expensive?

University fees vary:

• Qatar University: QAR 25,000 – 40,000 per year.

• International universities (Education City): QAR 50,000 – 90,000 per year.
  Some offer financial aid and scholarships.

Q14. What is Education City in Qatar?

Education City is a massive hub in Doha managed by the Qatar Foundation, hosting top international universities like:

• Carnegie Mellon

• Georgetown

• Northwestern

• Texas A&M

• Weill Cornell
  It provides world-class education and research facilities.

Q15. What language is used for teaching in Qatar schools?

• Government schools: Arabic.

• Private and international schools: English, French, German, or other languages depending on the curriculum.

Q16. Do schools in Qatar provide transportation facilities?

Yes, most schools offer school bus services with separate charges. Costs range between QAR 3,000 – QAR 7,000 per year depending on distance.

Q17. Are there special schools for children with learning needs in Qatar?

Yes. Qatar has several inclusive schools and special education centers designed to support students with special learning needs.

Q18. Is homeschooling allowed in Qatar?

Yes, but it is regulated by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. Parents must register and follow approved curricula.

Q19. Are there extracurricular activities in Qatar schools?

Yes, most schools offer a wide range of activities:

• Sports (football, swimming, basketball)

• Music and performing arts

• Robotics and coding clubs

• Debate and public speaking forums

Q20. Is Qatar good for international students?

Absolutely. Qatar is an emerging education hub offering:

• World-class universities

• Global curriculums

• Multicultural learning environments

• Excellent career opportunities after graduation