The King Fahd University Scholarships 2025 in Saudi Arabia are fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue master’s and PhD programs at one of the region’s most prestigious institutions. The application deadline for King Fahd University Scholarships varies by program (31 July 2025) but typically falls around December of the previous year or early in the year for certain cycles. For the 2025 intake, check the official university portal for the most current deadlines as they may differ for each field.
University/Institution Details
- Institution Name: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)
- Location: Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
- Global Ranking: Ranked 163rd in the QS World University Rankings 2022, with top-tier engineering and science programs
- Reputation: Renowned for academic excellence, innovative research, and strong industry connections
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
- Engineering: Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Software Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering
- Sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Geophysics, Environmental Sciences, Life Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Medical Physics, Applied Statistics
- Business & Management: Business Administration (MBA), Accountancy
- Urban Planning: City & Regional Planning
- Information Technology: Computer Engineering, Computer Networks, Computer Science, Information Assurance & Security
- Graduate Programs
King Fahd University Scholarships Benefits
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Furnished on-campus housing (bachelor and, for PhD, married housing subject to availability)
- Comprehensive medical coverage
- Free textbooks and educational materials
- Subsidized meals in university cafeterias
- Round-trip airfare to/from Dammam
- Relocation support
- Opportunities for funded research projects
- Developmental programs in teaching, research, and skills enhancement
Benefits Not Included
- Application fee (some cycles may require a small non-refundable fee, but many are free)
- Personal expenses beyond the stipend (e.g., travel for personal reasons, extra insurance)
- Family benefits beyond married PhD housing (limited availability, not guaranteed for all)
- Additional living costs beyond the provided stipend and accommodations
Eligibility Criteria for King Fahd University Scholarships
1. Master of Science (Thesis-Based) / Engineering Programs
- Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering from a recognized institution.
- GPA:
- 3.00/4.00 or equivalent (for scholarship applicants)
- 2.50/4.00 or equivalent (for non-scholarship applicants)
- English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 520 (PBT), 190 (CBT), 70 (IBT)
- IELTS: 6.0 | Duolingo: 105
- Waived for KFUPM and English-speaking country graduates
- Two recommendation letters (submitted online)
- Must meet any extra departmental/university requirements
2. MS in Business Administration
- Bachelor’s degree in business, science, or engineering from an accredited institution
- GPA: 2.5/4.0 or equivalent
- GMAT/GRE: Optional but recommended
- English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 520 (PBT), 190 (CBT), 69 (IBT)
- IELTS: 6.0
- Three recommendation letters
- Completed college-level calculus and statistics
- Computer knowledge (at least one related course)
- One-page statement of purpose
- Minimum 3 years of work experience
3. Master of Science (Project-Based)
- Recognized bachelor’s degree
- GPA: 2.5/4.0 or equivalent
- English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 70+
- IELTS: 6.0+
- Duolingo: 105+
- Waived for KFUPM and English-speaking country graduates
- Two recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose (one page)
- SAR 100 + VAT non-refundable processing fee
4. PhD Programs
- Master’s degree in science or engineering with a suitable background
- GPA: 3.00/4.00 or equivalent in both B.S. and M.S. degrees
- English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), 80 (IBT)
- IELTS: 6.5 | Duolingo: 120
- Waived for KFUPM and English-speaking country graduates
- Two academic recommendation letters
- Must meet any extra departmental/university requirements
5. PhD – Direct Entry (After Bachelor’s)
- 4-year bachelor’s degree with GPA of 3.00/4.00 or equivalent
- English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), 80 (IBT)
- IELTS: 6.5 | Duolingo: 120
- Waived for KFUPM and English-speaking country graduates
- TOEFL score must be sent directly (KFUPM code: 0868)
Required Documents for the Application
- Complete official transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Statement of purpose (one-page essay on career and research goals)
- Identification: Passport for international applicants, National ID for Saudi citizens, Iqama for residents
- Two recommendation letters
- Color photograph with white background
- CV/Resume
- English language proficiency certificate (TOEFL/IELTS)
- GRE scores (for engineering/science programs)
- GMAT scores (for business administration programs)
- Additional departmental requirements may apply
King Fahd University Scholarships Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Review Eligibility: Ensure you meet all criteria for your chosen program.
- Choose Program: Select the master’s or PhD program that aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents in the specified format.
- Online Application: Create an account on the KFUPM application portal and fill in your details.
- Upload Documents: Attach all required documents to your application.
- Submit Application: Complete and submit your application before the deadline.
- Monitor Status: Check your email and the online portal for updates on your application status.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to gather all documents and meet the deadline.
- Double-check eligibility and required scores for your chosen program.
- Write a compelling statement of purpose that highlights your goals and fit for KFUPM.
- Secure strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees.
- Proofread your application for accuracy and clarity.
- Follow instructions carefully regarding document formats and uploads.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
- Accommodation: Free (provided on-campus)
- Food: $100–$200 (subsidized meals available)
- Transportation: $20–$50 (university shuttle or local transport)
- Personal Expenses: $100–$200
- Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $220–$450 (excluding stipend, as most essentials are covered by the scholarship)
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Why Choose the King Fahd University Scholarship? (5 Reasons)
- Fully Funded Opportunity: All tuition, living expenses, and travel are covered, making it accessible for international students.
- World-Class Education: KFUPM is globally ranked and recognized for its engineering and science programs.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Includes housing, medical insurance, research funding, and developmental programs.
- Strong Industry Connections: KFUPM has robust ties to major industries, offering excellent career prospects.
- Vibrant International Community: Join a diverse and dynamic academic environment with students from around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible for the King Fahd University Scholarships?
A: International students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree and the required GPA and English proficiency.
Q: What is the application deadline for 2025?
A: Deadlines vary by program; check the official KFUPM website for the latest information.
Q: What are the benefits of the scholarship?
A: Full tuition, monthly stipend, housing, medical insurance, travel support, and more.
Q: Is there an application fee?
A: Some cycles may require a small fee, but many are free.
Q: Can family members join me?
A: Married PhD students may be eligible for family housing, subject to availability.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Complete the online application, upload the required documents, and submit before the deadline.
Official Link