Saudi Arabia is becoming a top destination for international students, offering fully funded scholarships for the 2025/26 academic year. These scholarships let you study for free at some of the best universities in the region, covering programs from diplomas to PhD degrees. By choosing to study in Saudi Arabia, you get a high-quality education and a chance to explore a vibrant culture that blends tradition with modern life. This article explains the types of study, benefits, application process, and eligibility requirements for these exciting opportunities.
Why Study in Saudi Arabia?
Studying in Saudi Arabia offers many advantages. The country has world-class universities, with some like King Saud University and KAUST ranking among the top 200 globally. You can learn Arabic, experience Middle Eastern culture, and enjoy a safe, welcoming environment. The scholarships cover all major expenses, so you can focus on your studies and personal growth. Plus, you get access to modern facilities and research opportunities, making it a great choice for your education.
Types of Study Available
The fully funded scholarships support a wide range of programs to suit different interests and career goals. Here are the main types:
- Diploma Programs: These are short courses, often lasting one to two years, focusing on specific skills or languages. For example, you can study Arabic at King Abdulaziz University.
- Bachelor’s Degrees: These are four-year undergraduate programs in fields like engineering, computer science, business, arts, and Islamic studies.
- Master’s Degrees: These one- to two-year graduate programs are for students with a bachelor’s degree, offering advanced study in areas like science, technology, and humanities.
- PhD Programs: These three- to five-year research degrees are for those with a master’s degree, focusing on fields like engineering, Islamic studies, and more.
About 50 public and private universities in Saudi Arabia offer these programs through the Study in Saudi Platform. Notable institutions include King Abdulaziz University, KAUST, Islamic University Madinah, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals.
Benefits of the Scholarships
Fully funded scholarships mean you don’t pay for major expenses, allowing you to focus on your studies. Here’s what they typically cover:
- Tuition Fees: The scholarship pays for all your classes, so education is free.
- Monthly Stipend: You get money each month for living costs like food and transport. For example, KAUST offers up to $30,000 per year, though amounts vary by university.
- Accommodation: You get free housing on campus or a housing allowance.
- Health Insurance: Medical and dental care are covered if you get sick.
- Travel Allowances: Some scholarships provide money for flights to and from Saudi Arabia, subject to rules.
- Other Perks: You may get access to university libraries, sports facilities, and even a cash reward when you arrive.
Benefits can differ by university, so check specific details on the university’s website or the Study in Saudi Platform.
How to Apply
Applying for these scholarships is easy and free through the Study in Saudi Platform. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Website: Go to Study in Saudi.
- Create an Account: Click “Create Account” and enter your details.
- Activate Your Account: Check your email for a link to activate your account.
- Log In: Use your account to access the platform.
- Start Application: Click “Apply to Study Now.”
- Enter Personal Information: Fill in your name, nationality, date of birth, and residence.
- Provide Passport Details: You need a valid passport to apply.
- Choose Your Program: Select bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or diploma, and pick your major.
- Select Universities: Choose the universities you want to apply to.
- Upload Documents: Submit required documents like transcripts, recommendation letters, and language test scores.
- Submit Application: Review and send your application.
Some universities, like King Abdulaziz University, have their own scholarship portals where you can apply directly. There’s no application fee, making it accessible for everyone. Deadlines vary by university and program—some sources mention June 14, 2025, for bachelor’s programs and October 31, 2025, for master’s and PhD programs, but always check the official website for exact dates.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for these scholarships, you must meet certain criteria, which can vary by university and program. Here are the common requirements:
- Age Limits:
- Bachelor’s: Usually under 25 years old.
- Master’s: Under 30 years old.
- PhD: Under 35 years old, though some universities, like King Abdulaziz University, allow up to 40 for PhD applicants.
- Academic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s: High school diploma with good grades, certified by the Saudi Embassy.
- Master’s: Bachelor’s degree with at least a “very good” grade or equivalent (e.g., GPA of 3.0/4.0).
- PhD: Master’s degree or equivalent.
- Language Proficiency:
- For English-taught programs: You may need a TOEFL score (e.g., IBT 61) or IELTS score (e.g., 5.0). For example, King Abdulaziz University requires these for non-Arabic programs.
- For Arabic-taught programs: Proof of Arabic proficiency may be needed, especially for Islamic studies or Arabic literature.
- Required Documents:
- Valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Medical report showing you’re healthy and free of infectious diseases.
- Two recommendation letters from teachers or professors.
- Statement of purpose explaining why you want to study in Saudi Arabia.
- Academic transcripts and certificates, verified with official stamps.
- For some programs, a nomination letter from your home country may be required.
- Other Criteria:
- You must not have been dismissed from a Saudi university before.
- You should have a good conduct record and be medically fit.
- Applicants under 18 need guardian approval.
- You cannot hold another scholarship at the same time.
Check the specific requirements for your chosen university and program on the Study in Saudi Platform or university websites, as some may have additional criteria like work experience or published research.
| Requirement | Bachelor’s | Master’s | PhD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 25 | Under 30 | Under 35 (up to 40 at some universities) |
| Academic | High school diploma | Bachelor’s degree (“very good” grade) | Master’s degree |
| Language | English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Arabic | English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Arabic | English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Arabic |
| Documents | Passport, medical report, recommendations | Passport, medical report, recommendations, statement of purpose | Same as Master’s, plus nomination letter (if required) |
Examples of Scholarship Programs
Here are some notable programs:
- King Abdulaziz University (KAU): Located in Jeddah, KAU offers scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and Arabic language programs. Benefits include tuition, stipends, housing, and health insurance. Apply via the KAU Scholarship Portal or the Study in Saudi Platform.
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST): KAUST focuses on master’s and PhD programs in science and technology, offering up to $30,000 annually, housing, and relocation support. Details are at KAUST Admissions.
- Islamic University Madinah: Specializes in Islamic studies and Arabic, providing full scholarships with tuition, housing, and stipends.
- King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals: Offers scholarships for engineering, sciences, and technology programs.
Conclusion
Fully funded scholarships in Saudi Arabia for 2025/26 are a fantastic opportunity for international students to study at top universities without financial worries. Covering tuition, living costs, housing, and more, these scholarships let you focus on your education and enjoy Saudi Arabia’s rich culture. The application process is simple and free through the Study in Saudi Platform. Don’t miss this chance to advance your academic and career goals in a dynamic country. Visit the platform today to start your application and explore your future in Saudi Arabia!
Key Citations
- Study in Saudi Arabia Platform
- King Abdulaziz University Scholarship Portal
- KAUST Scholarship Admissions
- Opportunities Corners Study in Saudi Scholarships