Education in Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving, with the Kingdom making significant investments in higher education, research, and international collaboration under Vision 2030. For both Saudi nationals and international students, scholarships in Saudi Arabia offer access to world-class education, fully funded degrees, and opportunities to study at prestigious universities.
This complete guide provides a breakdown of the top 10 scholarships in Saudi Arabia, their eligibility criteria, how to apply, required documents, and expert tips to increase your chances of winning.
Why Choose Saudi Arabia for Higher Education?
Saudi Arabia is home to renowned universities, robust academic infrastructure, and generous funding opportunities. Here’s why it’s a top destination for higher education:
- Free education at public universities for Saudi citizens
- Generous fully funded scholarships for international students
- Programs in STEM, Islamic Studies, Medicine, and Engineering
- High-quality institutions like King Saud University, KAUST, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
- Access to cutting-edge research and job opportunities under Vision 2030
Top 10 Scholarships in Saudi Arabia for 2025
1. King Abdulaziz University Scholarships (KAU)
- Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Eligibility: International students
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, medical care, and airfare
- Deadline: Rolling admissions
- Website: https://www.kau.edu.sa
2. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) Scholarships
- Level: Master’s, PhD
- Eligibility: Outstanding international students in engineering, science, and business
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, housing, healthcare, and travel support
- Deadline: February (Fall), September (Spring)
- Website: https://www.kfupm.edu.sa
3. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Fellowship
- Level: MS, PhD
- Eligibility: Domestic and international students
- Coverage: Full tuition, $20,000–$30,000 annual stipend, housing, and relocation support
- Deadline: December–January
- Website: https://www.kaust.edu.sa
4. Islamic University of Madinah Scholarship
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Muslim male students from outside Saudi Arabia
- Coverage: Tuition, airfare, monthly allowance, housing, medical care
- Deadline: May
- Website: https://www.iu.edu.sa
5. Al-Majma’ah University Scholarship
- Level: Bachelor’s
- Eligibility: International students
- Coverage: Full tuition, free housing, and monthly stipend
- Deadline: Varies
- Website: https://www.mu.edu.sa
6. Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud Islamic University Scholarship
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: Non-Saudi Muslim male students
- Coverage: Full scholarship including housing, travel, and allowance
- Website: https://www.imamu.edu.sa
7. Ministry of Education Scholarship (Saudi Government Scholarship)
- Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- Eligibility: International students accepted into Saudi universities
- Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, housing, health insurance
- Deadline: Varies by university
- How to Apply: Directly through host university
8. Prince Sultan University Scholarships
- Level: Bachelor’s and Master’s
- Eligibility: High-achieving students in specific programs
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition waivers
- Website: https://www.psu.edu.sa
9. Taibah University Scholarships
- Level: Bachelor’s
- Eligibility: International students (especially Islamic Studies)
- Coverage: Full tuition, health care, housing, monthly stipend
- Website: https://www.taibahu.edu.sa
10. Saudi Aramco Scholarships (College Degree Program)
- Level: Undergraduate
- Eligibility: High school graduates (Saudi nationals)
- Coverage: Full scholarship, internship opportunities, guaranteed employment
- Website: https://www.aramco.com
Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Scholarships
Eligibility varies by program and university, but common requirements include:
| Criteria | Description |
| Age Limit | Usually under 25 (undergrad), under 30–35 (postgrad) |
| Academic Record | Strong GPA (varies by program) |
| Language | English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) or Arabic (Islamic studies) |
| Nationality | Some programs open only to non-Saudis |
| Religion | Required for some Islamic scholarships |
| Health Certificate | Medical clearance may be required |
Documents Required
Be ready with the following for your scholarship applications:
- Scanned passport copy
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Statement of purpose (SOP)
- Recommendation letters (2–3)
- Medical certificate
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Proof of English/Arabic proficiency
- Police clearance certificate (for some universities)
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Choose a University or Program
Select programs based on your academic interest, eligibility, and funding availability. Visit:
- Study in Saudi
- Individual university websites
Step 2: Check Application Timeline
Most universities open admissions between November and March for Fall intakes. KAUST and KFUPM have specific cycles.
Step 3: Prepare Application Materials
Organize the documents listed above. Translate any non-English/Arabic documents and get them notarized.
Step 4: Submit Online Application
Most Saudi universities have an online portal for both admission and scholarship application. Follow the process carefully:
- Create account
- Upload documents
- Submit application before the deadline
- Track your application status
Step 5: Await Shortlisting and Interview (if applicable)
Some programs may include interviews, especially graduate and research-based ones.
Step 6: Receive Offer & Apply for Visa
Once accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter and sponsorship for a Saudi student visa.
Pro Tips to Win a Saudi Scholarship
Apply early and double-check eligibility
Prioritize fully funded programs at top institutions like KAUST, KAU, KFUPM
Highlight leadership, volunteering, and academic excellence in your SOP
Choose referees who know your strengths personally
Submit certified translations for all non-English documents
Tailor your application to the specific mission and values of each university
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without meeting the eligibility criteria
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Not uploading certified translations
- Ignoring lesser-known universities with great funding opportunities
- Missing the scholarship deadlines due to poor planning
Where to Search for Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
| Platform | Description |
| Study in Saudi | Government scholarship portal |
| KAU Official Website | University-specific scholarships |
| [Edugate Systems (University Portals)] | Application and tracking portals |
| Scholarship Positions | Global scholarship aggregator |
FAQs: Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Q: Are scholarships in Saudi Arabia fully funded?
Yes. Most scholarships for international students are fully funded, covering tuition, living costs, travel, and insurance.
Q: Can women apply for scholarships in Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Many universities offer scholarships for female international students, especially at the graduate level.
Q: Is knowledge of Arabic required?
Not always. Programs in STEM and business are often taught in English. However, Islamic studies usually require Arabic proficiency.
Q: Can I work while studying in Saudi Arabia?
Work opportunities for international students are limited. Scholarships usually cover all financial needs, so part-time work is not typically required.
Conclusion: Start Your Saudi Scholarship Journey Now
Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global hub for higher education and research. With generous funding, cutting-edge facilities, and a focus on Vision 2030, Saudi scholarships in 2025 are more attractive than ever.
Whether you’re aiming for an undergraduate degree in Islamic Studies or a PhD in AI, the Kingdom offers unmatched opportunities for ambitious students from around the world.
Start your applications early
Follow university updates
Stay organized and prepared
Your dream education in Saudi Arabia could be just one scholarship away.
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