Are you searching for a prestigious, fully funded fellowship to accelerate your research career? The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 in Saudi Arabia stands out as an exceptional opportunity for postdoctoral researchers worldwide. This fellowship provides an unparalleled platform for early-career scientists to pursue impactful research, access state-of-the-art facilities, and benefit from substantial financial and academic support. Here’s everything you need to know—including application details, eligibility, benefits, and pro tips—to craft a winning application.
Basic Information about the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026
- Program: KAUST Global Fellowship 2026
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Host Institution: King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)
- Level: Postdoctoral
- Fellowship Duration: 3 years
- Benefits: Fully funded; includes generous stipend, research funding, housing, health insurance, and more
- Application Deadline: January 1, 2026
University/Institution Overview: King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)
Founded in 2009, King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) is a world-class graduate research university on the Red Sea coast in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. KAUST is internationally recognized for:
- Cutting-edge facilities and labs
- Collaborative, multicultural environment with students and faculty from over 60 countries
- Research that tackles global challenges in energy, environment, digital technologies, health, and more
With a mission to drive scientific and technological advancement for the benefit of humanity, KAUST provides outstanding opportunities and support for top researchers at all levels.
Study Areas: Available Research Divisions and Program Themes
The KAUST Global Fellowship is open to independent research projects in KAUST’s key divisions:
| Research Division | Example Fields |
|---|---|
| Biological & Environmental Science & Engineering (BESE) | Life sciences, ecology, biomedicine |
| Computer, Electrical & Mathematical Science & Engineering (CEMSE) | Computer science, AI, robotics, math |
| Physical Science & Engineering (PSE) | Physics, chemistry, materials science |
Your research proposal must address at least one of the following global themes:
- Health & Wellness
- Sustainable Environment & Essential Needs
- Energy & Industrial Leadership
- Economies of the Future
Scholarship Benefits: What You Receive as a Fellow
KAUST sets a high bar for postdoctoral support, providing:
- Annual Living Stipend: $75,000 (about $6,250/month)
- Research Funding: Up to $40,000/year (field-dependent)
- On-Campus Accommodation: Modern, furnished housing provided
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for you
- Schooling Allowance: Tuition for up to 2 children; daycare subsidy for younger dependents
- Relocation Allowance: $3,000 for moving and visa support
- Annual Travel Allowance: For conferences, home visits, or research travel
- Mentoring & Professional Development: Access to leadership training, career guidance, and collaboration with leading faculty
- Visa Sponsorship: Full support for residency in Saudi Arabia
These benefits ensure you can focus solely on your research, advance your academic profile, and provide for your family while living at KAUST.
Benefits NOT Included
While the package is generous, candidates should note what’s not covered:
- Flight tickets for initial relocation may not be included (relocation allowance is meant for moving expenses only).
- Dependent healthcare coverage for more than two children may incur extra costs.
- Personal expenses (entertainment, private travel, luxury items) are not covered.
- Some laboratory-specific costs (e.g., extremely high-cost equipment use) may require external funding if exceeding your annual budget.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Academic: Hold a PhD awarded after January 2022; must be completed before the start of the fellowship
- Field: Open to all disciplines within BESE, CEMSE, and PSE
- Host: Secure agreement from a KAUST faculty member to serve as your host
- Nationality: Open to candidates of all nationalities
- Relocation: Willing to move to the KAUST campus for the 3-year term
- No age restriction
- Language: Strong command of English
Note: Meeting KAUST’s and Saudi Arabia’s immigration and residency requirements is mandatory.
Required Documents for Application
Prepare and upload these items:
- Resume/CV
- Two Major Research Papers/Publications
- 3-Year Research Plan (using the KAUST template)
- Letter of Support from KAUST Professor (Host PI)
- Two Letters of Recommendation (from academic/professional referees)
- PhD Certificate or Proof of Graduation
- Copy of Passport
- List of Publications and Research Achievements
- Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this roadmap to ensure a complete and competitive submission:
- Visit the Official Portal: Go to the KAUST Global Fellowship website or the application platform (PlutoEdu).
- Register & Create an Account: Both you and your referees must create accounts on PlutoEdu.
- Identify a Host Professor: Contact relevant KAUST faculty members; secure their agreement and a letter of support.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Use the official template and provide all required information.
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure each document meets specified format and content guidelines.
- Nominate Referees: Input details so your referees can upload their letters.
- Submit Application: Double-check for completeness. Submit before the January 1, 2026 deadline.
- Wait for Shortlisting: Successful candidates will be contacted for the next steps, possibly including interviews.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Contact Potential Hosts Early: Build rapport and tailor your proposal to their expertise.
- Align Research Proposal with KAUST Priorities: Clearly address at least one of the four key research themes.
- Follow Formatting & Budget Guidelines Precisely: Use the required template and application forms.
- Showcase Your Excellence: Emphasize your publications, leadership, and how your project will advance global challenges.
- Submit High-Quality References: Choose referees who know you well and can provide strong, detailed endorsements.
- Proofread Everything: Attention to detail demonstrates professionalism and commitment.
- Prepare for Interview: Be ready to discuss your project’s impact, feasibility, and fit for KAUST.
- Start Early: Allow time to refine your application, gather documents, and coordinate with your referees.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students at KAUST (in USD)
KAUST covers most major expenses for fellows. Here’s an overview of typical monthly costs:
| Item | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | Included | Modern on-campus apartments |
| Utilities (water, electricity, wifi) | Included | All standard bills covered |
| Health Insurance | Included | Full medical coverage |
| Basic Groceries & Food | $350–$500 | Varies by lifestyle |
| Schooling (2 children) | Included | Tuition fully covered |
| Local Transportation | $50–$100 | On-campus and nearby travel |
| Miscellaneous/Personal | $100–$300 | Depends on activities |
Most fellows find the $6,250/month stipend more than sufficient to maintain a comfortable lifestyle for themselves (and their families) while saving money.
Why Choose the KAUST Global Fellowship? (5+ Unbeatable Reasons)
- Generous Funding—Unrestricted stipend and research budget, plus family and relocation support.
- World-Class Research Environment—Access to cutting-edge labs, advanced facilities, and a diverse global community.
- Complete Financial Security—Major expenses (housing, insurance, tuition for 2 kids) fully covered, so you focus on research.
- Career Advancement—Mentoring, networking, and leadership programs help you grow as a research leader.
- Global Recognition—KAUST’s reputation and support make your profile competitive for top-tier academic and industry jobs.
- Family Friendly Living—Safe, modern campus with school and healthcare benefits for dependents.
- No Application Fee—Apply at no personal financial risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for the KAUST Global Fellowship 2026?
Any postdoctoral researcher (PhD completed after Jan 2022) from anywhere in the world can apply, provided they align with a KAUST host professor and research priorities.
2. Which research areas are supported?
Projects in Biological & Environmental, Computer/Electrical/Mathematical, and Physical Sciences & Engineering divisions; must align with one KAUST priority (Health, Environment, Energy, Economy).
3. Are families supported?
Yes, housing and tuition for up to 2 children, healthcare, and daycare subsidies are included.
4. Is English required?
Yes, and you may need to submit proof unless your degree is from an English-speaking country.
5. Do I need a KAUST faculty host?
Yes, applicants must obtain a signed support letter from a KAUST faculty member who will host your research.
6. Can I apply if I’m still completing my PhD?
Yes, as long as your PhD is awarded before the fellowship begins.
7. Is there an age limit or application fee?
No age limit and no fee to apply.
8. How competitive is the fellowship?
Very; KAUST attracts top global talent—but strong alignment with research priorities, a stellar academic record, and a compelling proposal will significantly strengthen your application.
Take advantage of this extraordinary opportunity to conduct independent, ground-breaking research at KAUST. Start preparing early and make your mark on the global research stage!