The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026 offers international students a golden opportunity to pursue higher education in Saudi Arabia at the prestigious King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). This fully funded scholarship supports talented individuals seeking master’s and PhD degrees, primarily in science, engineering, and technology fields. Below is an in-depth, SEO-optimized guide covering everything you need to know about the King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026, designed to help you make a successful application.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship program aimed at supporting postgraduate students globally. All International Students from all over the world are eligible to apply for KAUST Scholarship for Master and PhD Students. KAUST is Accepting Applications for the Spring and Fall 2025. The application deadline for the 2026 academic year is 11 April 2026 for the spring semester intake. This scholarship is open to applicants from all countries, emphasizing academic merit, research potential, and leadership capabilities.
About King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
KAUST, located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, is a cutting-edge, research-intensive university renowned internationally for its scientific education and innovation. It offers advanced degree programs with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, interdisciplinary research opportunities, and globally recognized faculty. KAUST fosters an inclusive, multicultural environment welcoming talented students from around the world.
Study Areas and Available Programs
KAUST offers a range of master’s and doctoral programs structured under three academic divisions:
- Division of Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE)
- Division of Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE)
- Division of Physical Science and Engineering (PSE)
Popular specific programs include:
- Applied Maths and Computational Science
- Specialization
- Applied Mathematics
- Computational Science and Engineering
- Specialization
- Applied Physics
- Specialization
- Biosensors and Bioelectronics
- Bioinformatics and Machine Learning
- Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering
- Synthetic Biology
- Specialization
- Cell and Molecular Biology
- Biomolecular Engineering
- Biophysics and Bioimaging
- Specialization
- Chemical Science
- Specialization
- Advanced Chemical Engineering
- Advanced Biological Engineering
- Chemical Science
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- Specialization
- Advanced Chemical Engineering
- Advanced Biological Engineering
- Computer Science
- Specialization
- Computer Science
- Specialization
- Solid Earth Systems
- Fluid Earth Systems
- Specialization
- Electrophysics
- Systems
- Specialization
- Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
- Specialization
- Water Quality, Chemistry, and Treatment
- Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology
- Environmental Hydrology and Fluid Mechanics
- Materials for Environmental Science and Engineering
- Specialization
- Marine Science and Engineering
- Environmental Hydrology and Fluid Mechanics
- Materials for Environmental Science and Engineering
- Specialization
- Marine Science and Engineering
- Marine Science and Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Specialization
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Specialization
- Mechanical Engineering
- Specialization
- Plant Science
- Specialization
- Plant Science
- Statistics
These programs focus on contemporary global challenges, emphasizing innovation in science and engineering.
King Abdullah University Scholarship Benefits
The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026 comes with comprehensive benefits:
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of the program
- Monthly living allowance ranging from $20,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on the academic level and progress
- Free on-campus housing accommodation
- Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
- Relocation support including travel expenses for the student and one round-trip airfare annually
- Access to cutting-edge research facilities, mentorship, and career development resources
- Participation in university job fairs and international networking events
What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
While the scholarship covers almost all essential costs, some benefits may not be included or may require additional personal funding:
- Personal expenses beyond the stipend (e.g., leisure, personal travel unrelated to research)
- Optional extracurricular activities or non-academic travel
- Certain visa and passport processing fees (varies by nationality)
- Dependents’ living costs (if applicable)
Eligibility Criteria for King Abdullah University Scholarship
To qualify for the King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following:
- Be an international student from any country
- Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree are eligible to apply for Master’s Degree programs.
- Aspirants with a Master’s degree are eligible to apply for Doctoral Degree programs
- Demonstrate strong academic records and research potential
- English proficiency demonstrated by a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL IBT score of 79
- PhD applicants require completion of an undergraduate or master’s degree in a relevant science or engineering discipline
Required Documents for Application
Candidates must submit the following documents through the KAUST online application platform:
- Official university transcripts with grading scale (original and certified English translation)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic, research, and job experience
- Statement of Purpose (approximately 750 words) explaining motivation, academic background, research interests, and career aspirations
- Three letters of recommendation from academic or research supervisors
- Official English language test scores (IELTS or TOEFL)
- GRE scores are encouraged but not mandatory and can enhance the application
King Abdullah University Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Create an online account on the KAUST application portal.
- Choose your program of interest and ensure you meet eligibility.
- Prepare and upload all required documents in the prescribed formats.
- Submit your application before the deadline (October 1, 2025).
- Await preliminary review and potential interview invitation from KAUST.
- Receive acceptance letter and scholarship offer if selected.
- Complete visa, travel, and onboarding formalities as guided by the university.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start your application early to gather all documents carefully.
- Write a compelling Statement of Purpose demonstrating passion and clarity of academic goals.
- Choose recommenders who know your work well and can provide detailed, supportive letters.
- Highlight any research experience, publications, or projects relevant to your field.
- Ensure all scores, especially English proficiency tests, meet KAUST minimum criteria.
- Double-check application details and submit before the deadline.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in USD
The scholarship provides a generous stipend, but it’s helpful to be aware of typical monthly living costs in Saudi Arabia:
- Accommodation (on-campus housing covered by scholarship)
- Food: $150–$300
- Transportation: $50–$100
- Utilities and internet (if applicable): $50–$70
- Miscellaneous/personal expenses: $50–$100
Estimated monthly living costs without housing: approximately $250–$500 USD.
Why Choose the King Abdullah University Scholarship?
- Fully funded scholarship covering tuition, housing, medical insurance, and a generous stipend.
- Access to world-class faculty and research facilities to support innovative projects.
- Global and multicultural campus community, enriching your personal and professional growth.
- Exceptional career development opportunities through networking, mentorship, and job fairs.
- Strategic location in Saudi Arabia, a hub for science, technology, and innovation in the Middle East.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can apply for the KAUST scholarship 2026?
A: International students worldwide pursuing master’s or PhD programs in science, engineering, or related fields.
Q: What is the deadline for scholarship application?
A: October 1, 2025.
Q: Does the scholarship cover family dependents?
A: No, dependents’ expenses are usually not covered.
Q: Is GRE required?
A: GRE is encouraged but not mandatory.
Q: How do I prove English proficiency?
A: Minimum IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL IBT 79 scores are required.
Official Link:
The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious and fully supported pathway to study at one of the most innovative scientific universities globally. If you meet the criteria and are passionate about advancing your research career in science and technology, this scholarship could be your launchpad for success.
Apply early and prepare your documents carefully to seize this once-in-a-lifetime academic opportunity in Saudi Arabia.