King Abdulaziz University International Student Scholarship (2026)
Scholarship Description
The King Abdulaziz University (KAU) International Student Scholarship is a prestigious funding program designed to attract talented international students to study in Saudi Arabia. The scholarship offers full or partial tuition coverage for eligible international students pursuing undergraduate, master's, or doctoral degrees at one of the Kingdom's most distinguished universities.
King Abdulaziz University, located in Jeddah, is consistently ranked among the top universities in the Arab world and globally. Established in 1967, KAU has grown into a comprehensive research university with a diverse international student body. The university is known for its excellence in sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, and business, as well as its state-of-the-art facilities and vibrant campus life.
The International Student Scholarship aims to promote cross-cultural understanding, academic excellence, and global cooperation. Successful scholars join a diverse community of students from over 80 countries and benefit from world-class education in a dynamic, multicultural environment.
Scholarship Location
The scholarship is tenable at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The university's main campus is located in the Al-Rabwah district of Jeddah, with additional facilities and colleges across the city.
Scholarship Deadline
Application deadlines for the KAU International Student Scholarship vary by program and academic level. International applicants are strongly advised to check the official university website for the most current deadlines.
Application Period: Typically opens annually. Exact dates for the 2026 intake should be confirmed on the official KAU scholarship page.
Recommendation: Applications are often accepted several months before the start of the academic year. Apply as early as possible to allow time for document preparation, application review, and visa processing.
Note: Deadlines are subject to change. Always refer to the official KAU website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Host Institution
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – a leading public research university in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Founded in 1967, KAU is named after King Abdulaziz Al Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. The university is consistently ranked among the top 200 universities globally and is recognized for its research output, international collaborations, and commitment to academic excellence.
Level and Fields of Study
Levels: Undergraduate (Bachelor's degree), Postgraduate (Master's degree), and Doctoral (PhD) programs.
Fields: Most disciplines offered by King Abdulaziz University are eligible. Key colleges include:
- College of Engineering
- College of Medicine
- College of Sciences (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- College of Computer Science and Information Technology
- College of Business (Rabigh)
- College of Economics and Management
- College of Arts and Humanities
- College of Law
- College of Pharmacy
- College of Dentistry
- College of Nursing
- College of Marine Sciences
Applicants should check the official KAU website for specific program availability and eligibility for international students.
Target Group
International students from all countries (non-Saudi citizens) who wish to pursue full-time degree programs at King Abdulaziz University. The scholarship welcomes applicants from diverse academic backgrounds and nationalities who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to contributing to their communities.
Scholarship Duration & Amount
Amount: Full or partial tuition coverage, depending on the scholarship type and the student's academic level and qualifications.
Duration: Varies by degree level – typically 4 years for undergraduate programs, 2 years for master's programs, and 3–5 years for doctoral programs, subject to satisfactory academic progress.
Additional benefits (may vary): Some scholarship packages may include a monthly living stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and airfare tickets. Details should be confirmed on the official KAU scholarship page.
📊 Note on Coverage: The exact coverage (full vs. partial tuition) and any additional benefits are determined at the time of admission and may vary based on the program, the applicant's qualifications, and the availability of funds. Visit the official KAU website for precise details.
Scholarship Eligibility
Citizenship: Non-Saudi citizens (international students).
Academic requirements: Strong academic record in previous studies. Specific GPA requirements vary by program and level (undergraduate, master's, PhD).
Language proficiency: For programs taught in English: TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or equivalent. For programs taught in Arabic: proof of Arabic proficiency may be required. Specific score requirements depend on the program.
Age limits: Typically, applicants should not exceed certain age limits (e.g., 25 for undergraduate, 30 for master's, 35 for PhD), but these may vary. Confirm on the official website.
Health requirements: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health and may need to undergo a medical examination.
Criminal record: Applicants must have no criminal record.
✅ Eligible Candidates
- Non-Saudi citizens (international students).
- Hold a high school diploma (undergraduate applicants) or a bachelor's/master's degree (graduate applicants).
- Meet the minimum GPA and language proficiency requirements for the chosen program.
- Meet any age requirements specified by the university or scholarship.
- In good health with no criminal record.
❌ Ineligible Candidates
- Saudi citizens.
- Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic or language requirements.
- Those who exceed the maximum age limits (where applicable).
- Applicants with serious health conditions or a criminal record.
- Students already holding another scholarship in Saudi Arabia (in most cases, students may only receive one scholarship).
Application Procedure
- Check eligibility – Review the official KAU International Student Scholarship page to confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements for your desired program level.
- Prepare required documents – Gather all necessary documents, which typically include:
- Valid passport copy (minimum validity of one year).
- Official academic transcripts and diplomas (notarized and translated into Arabic or English).
- Language proficiency certificate (TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or Arabic proficiency test).
- Statement of purpose or personal statement.
- Recommendation letters (for graduate programs).
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants).
- Medical examination report.
- Police clearance certificate (non-criminal record).
- Apply for admission – Submit an online application for admission to King Abdulaziz University through the official KAU admissions portal. Indicate your interest in the International Student Scholarship.
- Submit scholarship application – If required, complete a separate scholarship application form. Some scholarships are awarded automatically based on the admission application.
- Await review and decision – The university reviews applications and selects candidates based on academic merit, language proficiency, and other criteria. Successful applicants receive an admission offer and scholarship award letter.
- Accept the offer and apply for a visa – After accepting the offer, apply for a Saudi Arabian student visa through the Saudi embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Register and begin studies – Complete registration at KAU before the program start date.
Important note: Application procedures, required documents, and deadlines may change. Always refer to the official KAU International Student Scholarship page for the most current information.
Official Website & Application Link
King Abdulaziz University – International Student Scholarships (Official Page)
Main University Website: https://kau.edu.sa
Contact for inquiries: Use the contact information available on the official KAU website. For scholarship-specific questions, look for the Deanship of Admission and Registration or the International Students Office.
Note: The official website is the authoritative source for all information regarding application deadlines, required documents, eligibility criteria, and scholarship benefits.
💡 Final Thoughts and Key Requirements
The King Abdulaziz University International Student Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for international students seeking a world-class education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. With full or partial tuition coverage, KAU offers access to excellent academic programs, modern facilities, and a diverse international community.
Key strategies for a successful application:
- Visit the official KAU scholarship page early to understand all requirements and deadlines.
- Ensure you meet the minimum GPA and language proficiency requirements for your chosen program.
- Prepare all required documents well in advance, including notarized translations if necessary.
- Write a compelling personal statement explaining why you want to study at KAU and how you will contribute to your community after graduation.
- Apply as early as possible, as scholarships may be awarded on a rolling basis.
- Verify your eligibility for any additional benefits (stipend, accommodation, insurance, airfare) on the official website.
- Be aware that only one scholarship may be held at a time; if you already have another scholarship, you may not be eligible.
Important reminder: Information about deadlines, eligibility, and benefits can change. Always confirm all details on the official King Abdulaziz University website before applying.
King Abdulaziz University International Student Scholarship 2026 – FAQ
What does the KAU International Student Scholarship cover?
The scholarship offers full or partial tuition coverage. Some packages may also include a monthly living stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and airfare tickets. Details vary and should be confirmed on the official KAU website.
What is the application deadline?
Deadlines vary by program and academic level. Check the official KAU International Student Scholarships page for the most current deadlines for the 2026 intake.
Who is eligible to apply?
Non-Saudi citizens (international students) with strong academic records, meeting the language proficiency requirements for their chosen program. Age limits may apply depending on the program level.
What language proficiency is required?
For English-taught programs: TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic. For Arabic-taught programs: proof of Arabic proficiency. Minimum score requirements vary by program.
How do I apply?
Apply online through the King Abdulaziz University admissions portal. Indicate your interest in the International Student Scholarship. Some scholarships are awarded automatically based on the admission application.
Can I work while on scholarship?
International students in Saudi Arabia may have limited work opportunities. Check with the KAU International Students Office and Saudi visa regulations for specific rules.
Where can I find the most accurate information?
Always refer to the official King Abdulaziz University website: https://kau.edu.sa/en/page/international-student-scholarships. This is the authoritative source for all scholarship details.