RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) Review 2026: Is It Your Best Choice?
- Vaishnavi Mestry
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Choosing the right medical institution is a career-defining decision. As we move into 2026, the United Arab Emirates has solidified its position as a global hub for medical education. Among the top-tier institutions, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) stands out as a specialized powerhouse.
This comprehensive RAK Medical & Health Sciences University review explores everything from the 2026 academic requirements and fee structures to the university's recent climb in international rankings.
Why RAK Medical & Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU)?
Established in 2006 under the visionary leadership of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, RAKMHSU was the first comprehensive health sciences university in the UAE. By 2026, it has evolved into a multi-disciplinary medical hub featuring four distinct colleges:
RAK College of Medical Sciences (Offering the MD program)
RAK College of Dental Sciences (Offering the BDS program)
RAK College of Pharmaceutical Sciences
RAK College of Nursing
Latest 2026 Rankings & Recognition
In the latest 2026 Times Higher Education (THE) Arab University Rankings, RAKMHSU made a historic debut, ranking among the Top 13 universities in the UAE and securing a spot in the 151–175 category regionally. This milestone reflects the university’s massive investment in research, AI-driven medical labs, and global clinical partnerships.
2026 Admission Requirements: What You Need to Know
The admission landscape for 2026 has become increasingly competitive. RAKMHSU maintains high academic standards to ensure only the most dedicated students enter the medical field.
Academic Requirements (CBSE/ICSE & International)
For students applying from Indian curriculum backgrounds or equivalent high school streams:
Minimum Average:
A core aggregate of at least 75% in Grade 12.
Science Focus:
Preference is given to students scoring 80% or higher in Chemistry and Biology.
Subject Proficiency:
For the MD (Doctor of Medicine) program, the university specifically looks for strong performance in the "Science Trio" (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Mathematics).
English Language Proficiency
Since the medium of instruction is English, all applicants must meet the following updated 2026 standards:
IELTS Academic:
A minimum score of 5.0 (Note: Some clinical programs may require a 6.0 for direct entry).
TOEFL iBT:
A minimum score of 61.
EmSAT English:
A score of 1100 or higher is typically required for UAE-based applicants.
Detailed Fee Structure for 2026 Academic Year
Medical education is an investment. RAKMHSU provides a transparent fee structure, though it is subject to a maximum 10% annual adjustment based on UAE Ministry of Education guidelines.
Program | Approx. Annual Tuition (AED) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
Doctor of Medicine (MD) | ~130,000 | 6 Years |
Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) | ~100,000+ | 5 Years |
Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) | ~43,000 | 4 Years |
B.Sc. in Nursing (BSN) | ~37,000 | 4 Years |
Note: These figures exclude application fees (AED 500), admission fees (AED 2,500), and health insurance (~AED 2,400).
Scholarships and Financial Aid
RAKMHSU offers a 20% Merit Scholarship for the first year to students who achieve an aggregate of 97% or above in their high school finals. From the second year onwards, maintaining a GPA of 3.8/4.0 can earn you a continued 20% tuition concession.
Clinical Training and Hospital Affiliations
A critical part of any RAK Medical & Health Sciences University review is the quality of clinical exposure. RAKMHSU students benefit from an extensive network of government and private hospitals.
In late 2025, RAKMHSU signed a landmark MoU with Sheikh Khalifa Hospitals (governed by PureHealth), providing students with hands-on experience in one of the UAE’s most advanced healthcare networks. Other key clinical partners include:
Saqr Hospital: 278-bed facility for surgical specialties.
Ibrahim Bin Hamad Obaidallah Hospital: Focus on internal medicine and geriatrics.
Fujairah Hospital: Tertiary care rotations.
RAK Hospital: A premium multi-specialty private partner.
Campus Life and Student Facilities
The university isn't just about textbooks. The Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) lifestyle offers a more focused, "laid-back" environment compared to the hustle of Dubai, which many medical students find conducive to intense study.
Accommodation: Student residences are located just 3 minutes from the campus at the AURAK site, featuring fully furnished studios with separate kitchenettes.
Digital Transformation: The university recently implemented the Ellucian Student System to streamline everything from registration to grades, ensuring a modern "paperless" student experience.
Research Culture: 2026 marks the expansion of the AI in Research certificate course, preparing students for the future of digital health and precision medicine.
The Verdict: Is RAKMHSU Right for You?
Pros:
Specialized Focus: Unlike general universities, the entire ecosystem is dedicated to health sciences.
Global Recognition: Accredited by the CAA (UAE) and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
High Retention: Boasts a 96% student retention rate, indicating high student satisfaction.
Cons:
Rigorous Workload: The 75–80% entry barrier is just the start; the curriculum is demanding.
Location: While serene, students looking for a "city-center" social life might find RAK quiet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the latest RAK Medical & Health Sciences University review regarding its 2026 ranking?
As of 2026, RAKMHSU is ranked among the top 13 universities in the UAE and the top 175 in the Arab region by Times Higher Education. It is highly regarded for its 1:6 faculty-to-student ratio and its clinical training partnerships with PureHealth and EHS.
2. Can I get admission with 75% in CBSE?
Yes, the minimum requirement for Indian curricula (CBSE/ICSE) is 75% aggregate. However, for the MD program, high priority is given to those with 80%+ in Biology and Chemistry.
3. What English tests are accepted at RAKMHSU?
The university accepts Academic IELTS (min 5.0), TOEFL iBT (min 61), and EmSAT English (min 1100).
4. Is the MD degree from RAKMHSU recognized internationally?
Absolutely. The MD program is accredited by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) and the university is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, making graduates eligible for USMLE (USA) and PLAB (UK) exams.
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