The King Abdullah University Scholarship is a strong opportunity for international students to study in Saudi Arabia. This scholarship provides fully funded programs across a wide range of fields. In this article, we have explained everything you need to know about the King Abdullah University Scholarship 2027, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and a detailed step-by-step application process to help you apply successfully.
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarship 2026-2027 is available for master’s and PhD studies. It provides full free tuition support, an annual living allowance of up to $30,000, on-campus housing, medical and dental coverage, and relocation support.
Established in 2009, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a graduate research university devoted to finding solutions for some of the most pressing scientific and technological challenges in the world, as well as in Saudi Arabia, in the areas of food and health, water, energy, environment, and the digital domain. KAUST is curiosity-driven and interdisciplinary.
Admission to KAUST is merit-based. The university currently hosts students from over 60 countries and has received applications from students attending more than 220 universities around the world.
At KAUST, every admitted student receives the KAUST Fellowship. Enroll in our renowned graduate programs tuition-free. Live on the shores of the Red Sea, conducting groundbreaking research in our state-of-the-art research centers.
Work on some of the most pressing issues facing the world today, from environmental crises to global water and food supply challenges. Explore next-level research with our world-class faculty to solve the problems of the future today.
Related Fully Funded Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s / PhD
- Institution(s): King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
- Study Destination: Saudi Arabia
- Courses Offered: Click here to find all the available degree programs
KAUST Scholarship Deadline
The application deadline for the KAUST Scholarship is October 1, 2026, for spring admission, and May 07, 2027, for fall admission. The applications will open on August 15, 2026.
Scholarship Coverage
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarship provides the recipient with the following:
- 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 the KAUST Scholarship, a candidate must fulfill all of the following requirements:
- Required Languages: English (score of 79 for TOEFL IBT or 6.5 for IELTS).
- Eligible Countries: All countries.
- Applicants must meet all the entry requirements for the master’s or Ph.D. degree program.
- The GRE is not mandatory; however, it will be a plus if you have it.
How to Apply for a KAUST Scholarship?
Please follow the steps below to avail this scholarship:
(1) Click here to start the online application through the KAUST application tool.
(2) Upload the following documents via the KAUST online application tool:
- Official university transcripts: You must submit an official, complete university transcript/mark sheet/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): You should also submit a summary of your job experience, research experience, and any other relevant information 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 the 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.
(3) Submit the application.
Important Note: There is no application fee.
Websites
To know more about the KAUST Scholarship, please visit the official website:
