Doha university campuses are equipped with lavish and modern facilities that reflect the country's capabilities in supporting global education. So if you are planning to pursue higher studies there, there is nothing you should be worrying about. Here is an insight into student life in Doha.
Student life in Doha can be extreme or straightforward, depending on your income and status quo. Thus, expenses in top-ranking universities are quite higher than those in average types of schools or colleges. Since the government has the aim of providing better education for each resident, personal bank loans paved the way in covering the financial needs of each student who wishes to pursue higher studies. Banks such as the Commercial Bank of Qatar and Doha Bank offer a unique opportunity to both local and expatriates wishing to study in any of Doha's universities. Expats can obtain a maximum amount of 380,000QR while Qataris can loan 1,800,000QR with a minimum interest of only 4.9% per annum.
Banks indeed offers a simple and systematic way of loan application. Student or their guardians can directly visit any branches and submit necessary documents like passport, school references and proof of university admission documents, salary certificates and Qatar ID. Terms of payment somehow depend on each borrower's convenience.
Student accommodation in Doha
Students in Doha can choose from various accommodation options. However, they are encouraged to stay in dormitories while some locals prefer to live with their parents until they graduate. For those who prefer to stay independently in a dormitory, universities are equipped with first class housing facilities.
Qatar University, for instance, offers undergraduate students shared accommodation for 800 QR per month. The State university is quite pocket-friendly compared to international schools as it is mandated and managed by the government. Graduate students are required to pay 2,000QR per month if they choose to stay in dormitories. Qatar University dormitory can boast high-end facilities such as cafeterias, library, common areas, visitors' chambers, etc., making student life fun and convenient.
International universities such as Georgetown and Northwestern University also provide a posh quarter for their students inside the campus. Prices might be quite higher compared to the State university, but services are satisfying. For students who wish to live in these kinds of accommodation options, they are required to pay 2,000QR as security deposit while room prices vary on the type of housing – whether it is shared or for a single person. For ten months, count between 18,800QR to 22,800QR with a separate summer price of 600-700QR per week. Terms of payments and other payment modes are explained upon application.
Student discounts in Doha
Students can benefit from various discounts at some boutiques and department stores in Doha. For example, Virgin Megastore and Jarir Bookstores offer 20% discount rate for students purchasing their books and electronic gadgets.
Community engagement in Doha
One of the best things about being a student in Doha is that it gives you the opportunity of engaging in a community relating to business and media. Since the education system is focusing on economic studies, technology and media, students are encouraged to take part in conferences and national exhibitions to showcase their skills to the public and to find opportunities with top-ranking companies. Studying in Doha is also encouraged to students who desire to learn other cultures and adjust to a new community.
Special coaching courses are also provided to students coming from private schools. Recently, a social media platform has opened many areas of opportunities for international students in the country. This platform is a real showcase for Doha's vibrant student life, including education supports, national and international student activities and features selected student who imparted unique skills to the community.
The social media page Campus and Student Life in Qatar has helped thousands of students and raised awareness for the country's impressive higher education system.
Useful links:
Georgetown University Qatar - Housing and Resident life
North Western University Qatar - Housing
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