The KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) is a prestigious fully funded research internship offered by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. Designed for 3rd and 4th-year bachelor’s and master’s students, the program provides hands-on research experience in cutting-edge STEM disciplines under the supervision of world-class faculty. With more than 100 faculty-led research projects available year-round, VSRP is an ideal opportunity for students aiming to pursue graduate studies or research-focused careers.
Degree Level
- Bachelor’s Degree (3rd year or above)
- Master’s Degree
Fields / Subjects of Study
The KAUST VSRP internships are available across a wide range of STEM disciplines, including:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Applied Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Marine Science
- Energy and Sustainability
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Materials Science
All internship projects align with KAUST’s 17 STEM degree programs and emphasize interdisciplinary research.
Nationality
- Open to all nationalities
- KAUST hosts interns from over 100 countries, offering a truly international research environment
Program Duration
- 2 to 6 months
- Flexible start and end dates
- Applications accepted year-round
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the KAUST Visiting Student Research Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a 3rd-year or above undergraduate student or a master’s student
- Minimum GPA of 3.5 out of 4
- Demonstrate English language proficiency (official test scores may be required)
- Must not be a current PhD candidate
- KAUST students and KAUST alumni are not eligible
- Must meet passport validity requirements (minimum 6 months)
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Official academic transcript(s) in English
- Letter of recommendation from a faculty member
- Statement of Purpose
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport
Program Benefits
The KAUST VSRP is a fully funded internship, covering all major expenses, including:
- USD $1,000 monthly stipend
- Free private bedroom and bathroom on campus
- Round-trip airfare to and from KAUST
- Tuition and registration fees
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and core laboratories
- Social, cultural, and community activities
- Living in a fully inclusive international campus
Research Experience at KAUST
VSRP interns work directly with leading KAUST faculty in world-class laboratories. Students gain:
- Hands-on research and technical skills
- Experience contributing to real-world scientific challenges
- Opportunities to present research at conferences
- Potential to co-author academic publications
- Strong preparation for Master’s or PhD programs at KAUST or other top universities
Application Process
- Visit the KAUST VSRP Project Page
- Browse over 100 active research projects
- Select a project aligned with your academic background and interests
- Apply directly to the project via the “Apply” button
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted by faculty supervisors
- Applications are accepted throughout the year, making VSRP one of the most flexible fully funded internship programs globally.
Why Choose KAUST VSRP?
- Ranked among the world’s leading research universities
- Strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research
- Multicultural campus with scholars from over 100 nationalities
- Exceptional preparation for graduate studies and research careers
Official Call: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/study/internships
