Study Overseas: Top Degree Colleges in New York and Dubai

Studying abroad is no longer just a dream for students—it’s a pathway to global exposure, personal growth, and unmatched career opportunities. Among the many international education destinations, New York and Dubai shine as two of the most dynamic and student-friendly cities. While New York represents the historic and academic powerhouse of the West, Dubai showcases the modern, rapidly growing face of the East.

This article takes a deep dive into the top degree colleges in these two global cities and explains why they could be the perfect fit for your international education journey.

1. Why Study Overseas?

Before we explore specific colleges, let’s understand why international education—especially in cities like New York and Dubai—is gaining so much attention:

• Global Perspective: Meet peers from across the world, gain international viewpoints.

• Career Advantage: Employers value global education and cross-cultural skills.

• High-Quality Education: Access to world-class faculty, research facilities, and resources.

• Personal Growth: Learn independence, problem-solving, and adaptability.

Now, let’s explore the academic giants of New York and Dubai.

2. Top Degree Colleges in New York

New York isn’t just the “City That Never Sleeps”—it’s also a city that never stops learning. Home to hundreds of colleges and universities, it offers a wide range of disciplines, state-of-the-art campuses, and access to global job markets.

(A) New York University (NYU)

Located in Manhattan, NYU is one of the top-ranked private universities in the U.S.

Popular Programs:

• Business (Stern School of Business)

• Film and Performing Arts (Tisch School)

• Social Sciences and Law

Why NYU?

• Strong international student body

• Satellite campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai

• Powerful alumni network and career support

(B) Columbia University

An Ivy League university in the heart of NYC, Columbia is known for its rigorous academics and cutting-edge research.

Popular Programs:

• Journalism

• Engineering

• Medical Sciences

• Economics and International Relations

Why Columbia?

• Home to Pulitzer Prize and Nobel laureates

• Access to top research labs and think tanks

• Incredible internship opportunities in NYC

(C) Fordham University

This Jesuit university offers a strong liberal arts and business curriculum.

Popular Programs:

• Law

• Business Administration

• Psychology

• Political Science

Why Fordham?

• Intimate classroom sizes

• Strong social justice and leadership focus

• Beautiful campuses in the Bronx and Manhattan

3. Top Degree Colleges in Dubai

Dubai has transformed into a major academic hub offering international-standard education with a blend of East and West. Its tax-free economy, safe environment, and future-forward infrastructure make it ideal for students.

(A) American University in Dubai (AUD)

One of Dubai’s top private universities offering U.S.-accredited degrees.

Popular Programs:

• Architecture

• Business Administration

• Engineering

• Digital Media

Why AUD?

• American curriculum

• Located in Dubai Media City (great for networking)

• Highly diverse student body

(B) University of Dubai

A not-for-profit institution affiliated with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce.

Popular Programs:

• IT and Computer Science

• Business Management

• Law

Why University of Dubai?

• Affordable tuition

• Practical, career-focused education

• Strategic partnerships with UAE industries

(C) Middlesex University Dubai

A branch of the UK-based Middlesex University.

Popular Programs:

• Psychology

• Business and HR

• Data Science and IT

Why Middlesex Dubai?

• British-style education

• Recognized by KHDA and international bodies

• High employability among graduates

4. Campus Life: NYC vs Dubai

5. Tuition Fees and Living Costs

New York (Estimated Annual):

• Tuition: $30,000 – $70,000

• Living Expenses: $15,000 – $25,000

• Scholarships: Competitive; limited for international students

Dubai (Estimated Annual):

• Tuition: $10,000 – $25,000

• Living Expenses: $8,000 – $15,000

• Scholarships: More accessible; based on merit or nationality

6. Admission Process

Common Requirements (Both Cities):

• Academic transcripts (with translations if needed)

• English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

• Resume (for postgrad)

• Portfolio (for design/media courses)

Bonus Tip: Start early—apply 9–12 months before your intake session.

7. Work Opportunities During and After Studies

In New York:

• Part-time jobs on campus (20 hrs/week)

• CPT/OPT programs for international students

• Huge job market: tech, finance, fashion, media

In Dubai:

• Part-time work allowed with permit

• High demand in sectors like finance, real estate, IT

• Expo City, Dubai Internet City offer great career starts

8. Scholarships and Financial Aid

For New York:

• Fulbright, Humphrey Fellowship (for grad students)

• University-specific scholarships (NYU Global Scholars, etc.)

• Need-aware for international students

For Dubai:

• Merit scholarships (AUD, Heriot-Watt, etc.)

• Nationality-based tuition discounts

• Corporate sponsorships and grants

9. Choosing the Right City for YOU

Choose New York If:

• You want a competitive global environment

• You seek top-tier research and alumni networks

• You’re interested in arts, media, business, or science

Choose Dubai If:

• You want a cost-effective international degree

• You’re targeting Gulf and Asia job markets

• You prefer a diverse but more relaxed study pace

10. Final Thoughts: Your Future Begins Here

Both New York and Dubai offer world-class educational experiences, but the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and personal preferences. Whether you find yourself walking through Times Square or gazing up at the Burj Khalifa, your journey will be defined not just by where you go—but by how you grow.