Are you looking for fully funded scholarships to study in Saudi Arabia?. Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships offer an incredible chance for international students to study for free in one of the Middle East’s most rapidly developing educational systems. These scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, and more across a wide range of disciplines.
Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships are fully funded academic grants provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to attract talented international students. These scholarships support undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies at top Saudi universities.
Fully funded by the Saudi government
Open to international students from over 160 countries
Available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs
Courses taught in English and Arabic
Include a monthly stipend for living expenses
Cover full tuition and academic fees
Provide free medical care and insurance
Include return airfare once or twice a year
Offer university housing and meals
Priority given to high-performing students
Top Universities Offering Saudi Government Scholarships
Many of the Kingdom’s top-ranked universities participate in the government scholarship program, providing diverse academic opportunities.
King Saud University (KSU)
King Abdulaziz University (KAU)
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)
Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University
King Khalid University
Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (for women)
Islamic University of Madinah
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Umm Al-Qura University
Taibah University
Eligibility Criteria for Saudi Scholarships
To qualify, international applicants must meet academic, age, and language requirements based on the program level they are applying for.
Must hold a high school diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree
Age limits vary by level (usually under 25 for undergrad, under 35 for postgrad)
Good academic standing (minimum GPA required varies)
Strong recommendation letters
Valid passport and clean criminal record
Must be medically fit
Proficiency in English or Arabic depending on course requirements
Not previously enrolled in a Saudi institution under a scholarship
Must commit to full-time study
Acceptance by a Saudi university required
How to Apply for Saudi Government Scholarships
Applying for these scholarships is typically done directly through the universities or via the Ministry of Education portal.
Research eligible universities and programs
Prepare academic transcripts and certificates
Write a compelling statement of purpose
Obtain letters of recommendation
Submit English or Arabic language test scores
Fill out the online application on university websites
Attach valid passport and photograph
Apply before the university’s deadline (varies)
Await review and interview (if required)
Receive the official offer of admission and scholarship
Benefits of Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships
These scholarships go beyond tuition waivers, offering full academic and personal support to international scholars.
No tuition fees or registration charges
Free on-campus accommodation
Monthly stipends for living costs
Return flight tickets each year
Access to modern labs and libraries
Visa support and processing
Cultural and academic events
Full health and dental coverage
Opportunity to learn Arabic and experience Saudi culture
Post-graduate work opportunities in the Kingdom
Popular Fields of Study
Saudi scholarships are available in a wide range of subjects, particularly in science, engineering, medicine, and Islamic studies.
Students must prepare all documents before applying. Submissions in English or Arabic may be needed, depending on the institution.
Certified academic transcripts and certificates
Valid passport copy
Personal photograph (passport size)
Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Recommendation letters (usually two)
CV or academic resume
Proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or Arabic test)
Medical fitness report
Police clearance certificate
Any additional documents requested by the university
Application Timeline and Deadlines
While exact deadlines vary by university, most open their applications between January and March each year.
Stage
Typical Timeline
Application Opens
January – February
Document Submission Ends
March – April
Interview/Assessment Phase
April – May
Scholarship Results
June – July
Visa Processing
July – August
Academic Year Starts
September
Language and Preparatory Programs
Many Saudi universities offer language preparation courses, especially for students not fluent in Arabic. Some courses are also available in English.
Arabic language programs for international students
English-taught graduate and postgraduate programs
Language proficiency is mandatory for specific fields
Islamic studies typically require Arabic knowledge
Support centers available for academic writing and language help
Some universities offer foundation year programs
Language support provided throughout the program
Tutors and language labs are accessible
Workshops and cultural immersion activities
Some scholarships cover preparatory language programs
Life as an International Student in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia offers a unique cultural experience along with world-class academic resources.
Safe and secure campus environments
Gender-segregated education in some institutions
Affordable cost of living due to scholarship coverage
Multicultural student communities
Opportunities for religious tourism (e.g., Umrah)
Modern transport and infrastructure
Student clubs and extracurricular activities
Campus mosques and prayer facilities
Local mentorship and student support offices
Strong alumni networks for career advancement
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without Arabic language skills?
Yes, many programs are taught in English, especially at postgraduate levels. Arabic may be required for specific fields.
Are these scholarships really fully funded?
Absolutely. They cover tuition, accommodation, flights, stipends, and healthcare.
Can women apply for Saudi scholarships?
Yes, many scholarships are open to female applicants. Some universities are exclusively for women.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, typically under 25 for bachelor’s, under 30 for master’s, and under 35 for PhDs.
How competitive are these scholarships?
They are highly competitive, especially at top universities like KAUST or KFUPM.
Can I work while studying in Saudi Arabia?
Work opportunities are limited and usually require special permission. The focus is on full-time study.
Do I need a student visa?
Yes. Once accepted, the university will help facilitate your visa application.
How long does the scholarship last?
It depends on the program level: 4-5 years for undergrad, 2 years for master’s, and 3-4 years for PhD.
Can I bring my family with me?
Generally, scholarships cover the student only. Family accommodation is not always provided.
Are online applications accepted?
Yes, most universities use online portals for international scholarship applications.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabian Government Scholarships provide a rare opportunity for global students to earn top-quality degrees without financial strain. With full funding and world-class institutions, Saudi Arabia is a rising hub for international education.
We help you here
Free students tools, Recommendation letter Writing Service, Motivation Letter Writing Service, Intent Letter Writing Service
