King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarships | Fully Funded
Discover fully funded KAUST scholarships for Master’s and PhD 2026 in Saudi Arabia. Eligibility, deadlines, funding, and application guide for MENA students seeking study-abroad excellence.
Pursuing advanced degrees in science and technology can transform your career, especially with fully funded opportunities like the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarships for Master’s and PhD 2026. Located in Saudi Arabia, KAUST offers world-class research facilities and a diverse community for MENA students aiming to excel globally. This scholarship covers all costs, making it ideal for ambitious young professionals.
Eligibility & Deadlines
To qualify for the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarships for Master’s and PhD 2026 | Fully Funded, applicants must meet specific academic and language requirements. These scholarships target high-achieving students from the MENA region and beyond, focusing on fields like engineering, biological sciences, and computer science.
Key eligibility criteria include:
- A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field for Master’s applicants, or a Master’s for PhD candidates, from an accredited institution.
- A competitive GPA, typically above 3.3 on a 4.0 scale; 75% of admitted students have a GPA over 3.5.
- Proof of English proficiency: Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 79 or IELTS 6.5. No scores are needed if your prior degree was from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, or New Zealand.
- GRE scores are optional but recommended for quantitative strength.
- Scholarships are open to all nationalities, with no age limit, but ideal for 17-30-year-olds in MENA seeking study-abroad tips and visa guidance.
Deadlines for 2026 intake are structured in rounds for flexibility:
- Round 1: Open now for Spring 2026 (MS/PhD and PhD only) and Fall 2026; closes around October 2025.
- Round 2: Typically January 17, 2026, for Fall 2026 admissions.
- Rolling admissions after Round 2 until spots fill, but apply early for best chances.
MENA applicants should note Saudi visa processes: Secure admission first, then KAUST assists with student visas, requiring health checks and police clearance. For study-abroad tips, start gathering documents early to avoid delays.
“KAUST equipped me with cutting-edge skills to lead AI research in the Middle East,” shares Amani Alonazi, a Saudi alumna (PhD ’19), highlighting the program’s impact on MENA careers.
Funding Breakdown
The KAUST scholarships 2026 are fully funded, ensuring no financial barriers for recipients. This makes them standout among fully funded scholarships in Saudi Arabia, covering tuition, living expenses, and more for Master’s and PhD students.
Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Full tuition coverage (valued at approximately $35,000 annually).
- Monthly living stipend: $20,000 per year for Master’s students; $25,000-$30,000 for PhD, depending on progress.
- Free on-campus housing and utilities.
- Comprehensive health insurance (up to $15,000 value).
- Relocation support, including visa fees and airfare.
- Additional perks: Access to research funding and conference travel.
For comparison, here’s a table outlining funding for Master’s vs. PhD programs:
| Component | Master’s (Annual) | PhD (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Fully Covered | Fully Covered | No out-of-pocket costs |
| Stipend | $20,000 | $25,000-$30,000 | Tax-free, adjusted for qualifications |
| Housing | Free | Free | Modern campus accommodations |
| Health Insurance | Full Coverage | Full Coverage | Includes dental and vision |
| Relocation | Up to $5,000 | Up to $5,000 | Covers flights and initial setup |
| Total Estimated Value | $75,000+ | $80,000+ | Comparable to top US/European scholarships |
This funding rivals programs like Fulbright but is tailored for STEM fields. External sponsorships may adjust benefits, so declare them early. For MENA students, this eliminates debt worries, allowing focus on research.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
Applying for Master’s scholarships at KAUST or PhD funding at KAUST is straightforward but competitive. Follow this guide to boost your chances:
- Research Programs: Explore KAUST’s 150+ Master’s and PhD offerings in areas like environmental science or AI. No need for a faculty advisor upfront; list interests in your application.
- Prepare Documents: Gather transcripts, CV, statement of purpose (750 words on your goals), and three recommendation letters. Include English test scores or GRE if available.
- Create Account: Log into the KAUST admissions portal (no fee). Upload scans of official transcripts in native language with English translations.
- Submit Application: Complete before deadlines. If transcripts are pending, submit partial ones; finalize later.
- Interviews and Review: Shortlisted candidates get faculty interviews focusing on background and goals. Decisions roll out per round.
- Accept and Relocate: Upon admission, KAUST handles visa guidance—apply for Saudi student visa via Enjaz portal with university support.
