Home - Khotwa
Eligibility Criteria
- Are you a UAE National?
- Grade 11 and Grade 12 average of 60% or above
- Did you obtain a minimum score of 3.5 in IELTS in the last two years?
- Do you have your National Service Completion Letter? (Male applicants)
- Are you willing to commit to a homestay program while abroad?
Your Application Journey
Application
Sep - Dec 2024
Assessment
Jan - Mar 2025
Awarding
Apr 2025
Preparation
Apr - Jun 2025
Pre-departure
July 2025
Study Starts
Fall 2025
Our Colleges
Join the Top Community Colleges
Affiliate Homestay Programs
Expand your horizons with a homestay
While studying in the United States, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, students are required to reside in a local home as a family member for the duration of their community college/foundation studies. Homestays will be provided through such reputable organizations as:
Download the Khotwa Student Handbook
Got Questions?
What is the difference between a community college and a university?
A community college is designed to support your pathway towards university admission by developing your academic profile. A community college generally offers two-year associate degrees or diplomas. Universities offer bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees and doctorates.
Why homestay?
Homestays promote international understanding and cultural exchange while ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. Homestays also give you the opportunity to improve your English, meet new people, participate in family outings, and have a positive academic and cultural experience.
How long is the Khotwa program?
The Khotwa program is potentially four to five years in duration: one year of language preparation (if needed), followed by the 2 + 2 program i.e., 2 years of community college followed by 2 years in a university. Variations to this depend on location.
When does the registration for the program open?
Registration is open annually from September to December. If the registration period is closed, you can register your interest for the following academic year. We will notify you via email when registration reopens, and you will receive early bird access to register.
Is the IELTS score mandatory, and what if I don't have the required score?
Yes, a minimum IELTS score of 3.5 is mandatory. If you don’t have an IELTS score, you are not eligible for the program. If your score is below 3.5, we encourage you to improve your English and retake the IELTS before reapplying.
What supporting documents are required?
The following documents are required:
- Passport
- Emirates ID
- Family book
- Grade 11 and 12 transcripts
- IELTS score report from within the last two years
- National Service Letter
If I don’t complete my entire Khotwa program with a bachelor’s degree, am I required to repay any funds? Even if I had to return home due to an emergency?
Yes. Students who do not complete their bachelor's degree are liable to repay ADEK the costs incurred on their behalf, as per the student contract, which is shared with all Khotwa participants.
What degree will I earn by attending a community college?
Upon completing community college, you will earn an associate degree or diploma. These credits can then be transferred towards a bachelor’s degree at an international university.
Is homestay mandatory?
Yes, For the English-as-a-second-language (ESL) part of the program, however once the student has graduated from ESL, homestay becomes optional.
What does the program cover in terms of costs?
The Khotwa program is a full-ride scholarship, covering tuition and living expenses for one year of English as a Second Language (ESL) (If required), two years of community college and the two years of university.
What are the assessment criteria for selecting candidates for Khotwa?
Assessment criteria include academic performance in high school, extracurricular activities, IELTS score, boot camp personality evaluation, and one-on-one interview.
Will ADEK pay for me to take the IELTS exam?
No, it is the student’s responsibility to register, pay for, and take the IELTS exam to qualify for Khotwa. Taking the IELTS is not a guarantee of acceptance into the program.
Are there age restrictions for applying to the Khotwa Program?
Candidates between the ages of 17 and 29 are given priority.
Will Khotwa guarantee me a job on my return to the UAE.
While we cannot guarantee you a job, our alumni team will support you in finding internship opportunities and identifying the best job prospects available.