King Abdullah University Scholarship 2025-2026 (Fully Funded)

If you’re planning to pursue higher education in Saudi Arabia, the KAUST Scholarship is an excellent opportunity. In this article, we explain the scholarship benefits, eligibility criteria, and the complete step-by-step application process.

The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded award for international students pursuing master’s or PhD degrees. It covers full tuition fees, provides an annual living allowance of up to $30,000, on-campus housing, medical and dental coverage, and relocation support.

Founded in 2009, KAUST is a world-class graduate research university committed to solving critical global and regional challenges in food, health, water, energy, environment, and digital innovation. Admission is merit-based, and the university welcomes students from over 60 countries, with applications received from graduates of more than 220 universities worldwide.

All admitted students automatically receive the KAUST Fellowship, allowing them to study tuition-free, live on the shores of the Red Sea, and conduct cutting-edge research in advanced facilities. Scholars work on pressing global issues such as environmental sustainability, water scarcity, and food security alongside internationally renowned faculty.

Scholarship Summary

Level of Study: Master’s / PhD
Host Institution: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Location: Saudi Arabia
Available Programs: View all degree programs
Application Deadlines: January 11 / October 1

Scholarship Coverage

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarship provides the recipient with:

Full Free Tuition Support
Monthly Living Allowance (From $20,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on qualifications and degree progress)
On-Campus Housing
Medical and dental coverage
Relocation Support

Eligibility Criteria for KAUST Scholarship

To qualify for KAUST Scholarship, candidate must fulfill all of the following requirements below:

Required Languages: English (score of 79 for TOEFL IBT or 6.5 for IELTS).
Eligible Countries: All world countries.
Applicants must meet all the entry requirements for the Master’s or Ph.D. degree program.
GRE is not mandatory, however, it will be a plus if you have it.

How to Apply for KAUST Scholarship?

Please follow the following steps to avail this scholarship:

(1) Click here to start online application through the application tool of the KAUST.

(2) Upload the following documents via the KAUST online application tool:

Official university transcripts: You must submit an official complete university Transcript/ Mark sheets/ Graduation Certificate/ Academic Record from every institution previously attended. A scan of the official transcript provided by the university in the native language must be uploaded into the online application along with the certified English translation. Your transcript must include the university grading scale for all documents submitted. If offered admission, an official final transcript must be sent to the Office of Admissions prior to arrival (during the onboarding process) in a sealed envelope.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A summary of your job experience, research experience, and any other relevant information should also be submitted with your application. If you have publications, please include abstracts of these in your resume.
Statement of purpose: 750 words (approximately) concerning your past work, preparation for the intended field of study, relevant background and interests, academic plans, and career objectives. Please describe your reasons for applying to the particular KAUST program for which you are seeking admission.
Three letters of recommendation: You must have three letters of recommendation submitted on your behalf. Letters of recommendation are important and should be written by professors or advisors under whom you have pursued research or taken courses in your major field of study. Recommendation letters should be submitted through the application directly from the recommender. Recommenders should provide details about how he/she knows your work, as well as comparative statements (e.g., top 1% of class, best in past five years, etc.), and insight into your research ability.
English language test score:
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5 with at least 5.5 in all individual sections.
- TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test): 79 overall, with at least 17 in all individual sections, the KAUST Admissions code is 4107.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic: 62 overall, with at least 59 in all individual sections.
- Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): 176 overall, with at least 169 in all individual sections.
- An English score is not required if the applicant received a degree from an accredited institution in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
GRE (Graduate Record Examination): KAUST does not require the GRE exam for admission, however, you are welcome to submit your scores if you have taken the exam. Official test results can be sent directly to KAUST Admissions using the GRE Code 4139.