Saudi Arabia Government Scholarships for International Students 2026 | Fully Funded

If you plan to study in Saudi Arabia with financial support, the Saudi Arabian government scholarships are one of the best opportunities for international students. This scholarship provides fully funded programs at Saudi Arabian universities across a wide range of fields. In this article, we have explained everything you need to know about the Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships, including their benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and a detailed step-by-step application process to help you apply successfully.

The Saudi Arabian government, under the Ministry of Education (MOE), offers fully funded scholarships to international students in 27 public universities. Saudi government scholarships will cover a monthly living allowance, health insurance, accommodation, tuition, and travel

As part of its global leadership role, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is committed to serving Islam and the international community across multiple sectors, including education and human resource development. Through its fully funded scholarship programs, the Saudi government attracts outstanding international students in academic, scientific, and research fields to pursue their studies at public universities across the Kingdom. Currently, there are 27 public universities located in different regions of Saudi Arabia offering diverse academic programs. These scholarship initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to develop qualified global graduates who, after completing their studies, return to their home countries equipped with specialized knowledge, advanced skills, and valuable experience to contribute to sustainable development and international cooperation.

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If you are a high-achieving and ambitious student, there are many compelling reasons to choose the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as your study destination. Saudi universities are recognized for their academic excellence, and several institutions are ranked among the top universities in the world. They offer a strong environment for scientific research, supported by advanced research centers and modern facilities. The educational and cultural atmosphere is highly diverse, as students from more than 200 countries study across Saudi universities, creating a truly international experience. In addition, the Kingdom provides generous, fully funded scholarships for international students, covering tuition fees free of charge, along with many additional benefits and financial support.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
  • Institution(s): Saudi Universities
  • Study Destination: Saudi Arabia
  • Opportunity Focus Areas:  Various fields such as science, engineering, humanities, arts, and social sciences
  • Program Period: This scholarship is available for the normal duration of the course.

Saudi Government Scholarships Application Deadline

The opening date for the scholarship application program is determined according to the requirements of the academic year at universities.

Scholarship Coverage

Saudi government scholarships will cover two types of scholarships:

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1. Internal scholarships for non-Saudi students residing in the Kingdom with legal residency. 

2- External scholarships for non-Saudi students from outside the Kingdom:

  • Health care for him and his family members if they are brought in to reside with him and if the regulations require that.
  • A financial reward upon arrival.
  • Housing.
  • The advantages enjoyed by fellow students of the educational institution.
  • Annual travel tickets, taking into account the regulations that take into account and organize them.​​​

Eligibility Criteria for the Saudi Government Scholarships

To qualify for Saudi government scholarships, candidates must fulfill all of the following requirements:

  • Required Language: Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL) or Arabic, depending on the program/university requirements.
  • Eligible Countries: Non-Saudi International Students
  • The admission requirements applicable to Saudis in institutions of higher education apply to internal and external scholarship students. 
  • Applicants must meet the same admission requirements as Saudi students at the chosen university.
  • Age limits:
    • 17–25 years for undergraduate and Arabic language programs
    • Up to 30 years for Master’s programs
    • Up to 35 years for PhD programs
  • Applicants may need approval from their home country’s government (if required by their country).
  • Applicants must not have previously received another scholarship from a Saudi educational institution.
  • All academic certificates and documents must be officially attested by the relevant authorities.
  • Applicants must provide a police clearance certificate (proof of no criminal record).
  • Applicants must have a record free of dismissal from any educational institution in Saudi Arabia.
  • Female students must have a mahram (legal guardian) according to regulations, who is either sponsored, legally resident, or employed in Saudi Arabia.
  • Applicants must pass a required medical examination.
  • Some universities may require a recommendation letter from an approved organization or individual.
  • For internal scholarship students (already residing in Saudi Arabia):
    • They must obtain approval from their current sponsor.
    • They must have valid legal residency in the Kingdom.
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How to Apply for Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships?

Please follow the application instructions below to apply for Saudi government scholarships:

1- The scholarship application can be easily submitted through public universities for international students, according to the opening dates for registration to study at a Saudi university.

2- Apply to the Saudi Cultural Attaché in your country.

​3- If there is no Saudi cultural attaché in your country, one can apply to the embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. ​

Website

To know more about Saudi government scholarships, please visit the official website:

Official Website