King Saud University Study in Saudi Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, offers the “Study in Saudi” Scholarships 2026, a fully funded initiative aimed at attracting outstanding international students to pursue PhD programs in various fields. This scholarship aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on enhancing research, innovation, and academic excellence.

Benefits

Recipients of the KSU Study in Saudi Scholarship will receive:

• Full Tuition Coverage: All academic fees are waived.
• Monthly Stipend: Approximately $14,400 annually to cover living expenses.
• On-Campus Housing: Free accommodation within the university premises.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage at university hospitals.
• Relocation Support: Assistance for international students moving to Riyadh.
• Part-Time Work Opportunities: Possibility to engage in part-time employment during studies.
• Post-Graduation Work Permit: Eligibility to work in Saudi Arabia for up to one year after completing the PhD.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:

• Academic Qualification: Hold a Master’s degree from an accredited institution.
• English Proficiency: Provide valid scores from one of the following tests:
  • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 61
  • IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.0
  • STEP: Minimum score of 85
  • Note: Applicants with a Master’s degree from institutions in the USA, UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand may be exempted from this requirement.
• Program-Specific Requirements: Meet any additional criteria set by the chosen PhD program.
• Employment Status: Be available for full-time study; current full-time employees are not eligible.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

• Valid Passport Copy: A clear scan of the passport.
• Master’s Degree Certificate and Transcripts: Certified copies of academic records.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailed academic and professional history.
• Statement of Purpose: An essay outlining academic interests and career goals.
• Two Letters of Recommendation: Preferably from academic or professional references.
• English Proficiency Test Scores: As specified in the eligibility criteria.
• GRE Scores: Optional, unless required by the specific program.
• Proof of Research Experience: If applicable, documentation of previous research work.

How to Apply

1. Visit the Official Application Portal: Access the application system at KSU Initiative Portal.
2. Register an Account: Create a new user profile to begin the application process.
3. Complete the Application Form: Fill in personal, academic, and program-specific information.
4. Upload Required Documents: Ensure all documents are clear and meet the specified requirements.
5. Review and Submit: Double-check all entries and submit the application before the deadline.

Application Timeline

• Application Period: March 24, 2025 – May 15, 2025.
• Selection Process: Decisions will be made between late June and mid-July 2025.
• Program Commencement: Successful applicants may begin studies in Fall 2025 (August) or Winter 2026 (January), subject to completion of all formalities.