Study in Saudi Arabia Scholarships (for non-Saudis)

Overview

The "Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarship program, officially known as the Saudi Government Scholarships for Non-Saudis, is a prestigious initiative offered by the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia. This program aims to attract talented international students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Saudi universities. The scholarships are part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the country's educational system and promote cultural exchange. These scholarships provide international students with the opportunity to experience high-quality education in a country rich in culture, history, and modern development.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age:
    • For undergraduate programs: Applicants must be under 25 years of age
    • For master's programs: Applicants must be under 30 years of age
    • For doctoral programs: Applicants must be under 35 years of age
  • Academic Background:
    • For undergraduate programs: Completed secondary education with a minimum grade of 90% or equivalent
    • For master's programs: Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
    • For doctoral programs: Master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent
  • Nationality: Open to citizens of all countries except Saudi Arabia.
  • Language Proficiency:
    • For programs taught in Arabic: Proficiency in Arabic language
    • For programs taught in English: IELTS score of at least 5.5 or TOEFL iBT score of at least 61
    • Preparatory language courses are available for those who do not meet the language requirements
  • Health: Applicants must be in good health, verified by a medical certificate.
  • Other Requirements:
    • Must not have previously received a scholarship from the Saudi government
    • Must adhere to the laws and cultural norms of Saudi Arabia
    • Must have a clean criminal record

Types of Scholarships

1. Full Scholarships

Comprehensive scholarships covering tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, medical insurance, and round-trip airfare.

2. Partial Scholarships

Cover tuition fees and may include some additional benefits, but not all components of the full scholarship.

3. Research Scholarships

Specifically for doctoral students and researchers to conduct research at Saudi universities.

4. Islamic Studies Scholarships

Focused on Islamic studies, Arabic language, and related fields, often with additional benefits for students pursuing these disciplines.

5. Special Scholarships

Offered to students from specific countries based on bilateral agreements between Saudi Arabia and other nations.

Application Process

The application process for "Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships involves the following steps:

  1. Visit the official scholarship website at https://studyinsaudi.moe.gov.sa.
  2. Create an account on the online application portal.
  3. Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic information.
  4. Select your preferred Saudi universities and educational programs (you can choose up to three universities).
  5. Upload the required documents:
    • Scanned copy of passport (valid for at least six months)
    • Recent passport-sized photographs
    • Academic transcripts and certificates (with certified Arabic or English translations)
    • Language proficiency certificates (Arabic or English)
    • Curriculum vitae/resume
    • Motivation letter
    • Two letters of recommendation
    • Medical certificate
    • Research proposal (for doctoral applicants)
    • Certificate of good conduct/police clearance
  6. Submit the application before the deadline.
  7. Applications are reviewed by the Ministry of Education and selected universities.
  8. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview (in-person or virtual).
  9. Wait for the final selection results.
  10. If selected, complete the visa application process and prepare for travel to Saudi Arabia.

Deadlines

The application period for "Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships typically follows this schedule:

  • First Semester (Fall):
    • Application Opening: January-February
    • Application Deadline: March-April
    • Selection Process: May-June
    • Results Announcement: July
    • Academic Year Start: August-September
  • Second Semester (Spring):
    • Application Opening: August-September
    • Application Deadline: October-November
    • Selection Process: November-December
    • Results Announcement: December
    • Academic Year Start: January-February

Note: Exact dates may vary each year. Please check the official website for the most current information.

Benefits

The "Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships provide comprehensive support to international students, including:

  • Tuition Fees: Full coverage of university tuition fees.
  • Monthly Stipend: Monthly allowance to cover living expenses (approximately 850-900 SAR for undergraduate students and 900-1,000 SAR for postgraduate students).
  • Accommodation: Free accommodation in university dormitories or housing allowance.
  • Medical Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
  • Air Tickets: Annual round-trip air tickets to and from the student's home country.
  • Language Preparation: Free Arabic language courses for non-Arabic speakers.
  • Academic Resources: Access to libraries, laboratories, and other academic facilities.
  • Cultural Activities: Opportunities to participate in cultural events and excursions.
  • Graduation Reward: One-time reward upon successful completion of the program.

Note: Benefits may vary depending on the type of scholarship and the host university.

Top Saudi Universities

"Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships are accepted at numerous prestigious Saudi universities, including:

  • King Saud University (KSU)
  • King Abdulaziz University (KAU)
  • King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)
  • King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
  • Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU)
  • Islamic University of Madinah
  • Umm Al-Qura University
  • King Khalid University
  • Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University
  • Taibah University
  • Qassim University
  • King Faisal University

Popular Fields of Study

"Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships cover a wide range of academic disciplines, including:

  • Engineering (Petroleum, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)
  • Computer Science and Information Technology
  • Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Business Administration and Economics
  • Islamic Studies and Arabic Language
  • Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc.)
  • Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Education
  • Architecture and Design
  • Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
  • Law

Life in Saudi Arabia

Studying in Saudi Arabia offers a unique cultural experience:

  • Culture and Traditions: Saudi Arabia has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in Islamic traditions. International students have the opportunity to experience this unique culture firsthand.
  • Modern Infrastructure: Saudi universities are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and modern infrastructure.
  • Safety: Saudi Arabia is known for its low crime rates and safe environment for international students.
  • Cost of Living: The cost of living in Saudi Arabia is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries.
  • Climate: Saudi Arabia has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
  • Transportation: Major cities have public transportation systems, and taxis are widely available.
  • Cultural Adaptation: International students are expected to respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes and social norms.

Contact Information

For more information about "Study in Saudi Arabia" scholarships, you can contact:

Ministry of Education - Saudi Arabia
International Scholarships Department
P.O. Box 87982
Riyadh 11652, Saudi Arabia
Email: info@moe.gov.sa
Website: https://studyinsaudi.moe.gov.sa

You can also contact the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) or the Saudi embassy/consulate in your country for more information about studying in Saudi Arabia and available scholarships.

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