Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students 2026

Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students 2026

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is offering fully funded scholarships in 2026 to international students who wish to study in its 27 public universities. These scholarships are part of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to education, research, and global cooperation, aligning with Vision 2030.

If you are an international student aiming to pursue your Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD studies in Saudi Arabia, here is a complete guide on how to apply.

Why Study in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi universities are gaining global recognition for their academic quality and research output. Here are some reasons to consider:

• Several Saudi universities are ranked among the top institutions worldwide.

• Modern research centers with strong scientific facilities.

• Students from over 200 countries already enrolled, creating a multicultural environment.

• Full sponsorship benefits for scholarship holders: tuition, housing, stipend, medical care, and travel.

Types of Saudi Scholarships

International students can apply for two main categories of scholarships:

1. Internal Scholarships – For non-Saudi students already living in the Kingdom with valid residency.

2. External Scholarships – For students applying from abroad.

Scholarships can be:

• Full Scholarships – cover tuition, housing, stipend, medical care, and airfare.

• Partial Scholarships – limited benefits (e.g., seat + housing).

• Paid Grants – where certain costs are shared.

Degree Level

• Undergraduate
• Masters
• PhD

Available Subjects

You can apply for a variety of subjects. 

Benefits

Students selected for external scholarships enjoy:

• Free tuition fees.

• Monthly stipend (varies by degree level).

• University housing.

• Healthcare coverage.

• Annual round-trip airfare.

• Financial reward upon arrival.

• Equal student privileges as Saudi nationals in universities.

Eligible Nationalities

Students from all those nationalities having embassies of Saudia Arabia in their countries can apply.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be 17–25 years old for undergraduate and Arabic diploma programs.

• Be under 30 years for Master’s degree applicants.

• Be under 35 years for PhD applicants.

• Have certificates attested by relevant authorities.

• Provide a clean criminal record certificate.

• Pass a medical exam approved by the university.

• Not hold another Saudi scholarship.

• Female students must have a mahram (guardian) residing in the Kingdom.

Application Procedure

There are three official application routes:

1. Apply directly through the university’s website

   • Visit the admission portal of the university you are interested in.

   • Submit your application online during the admission window.

   • Most fields are available, except for medical and health specialties.

2. Apply through the Saudi Cultural Attaché

   • If your country has a Saudi cultural office, you can apply there.

3. Apply through the Saudi Embassy

   • If there is no Saudi cultural attaché, apply directly via the Saudi Embassy in your country.

Required Documents

Prepare the following before applying:

• Attested academic certificates and transcripts.

• Passport copy valid for at least one year.

• Recommendation letters (if required).

• Good conduct certificate (no criminal record).

• Medical fitness certificate.

• Statement of purpose (for Master’s/PhD).

Study Visa & Residence Permit

• Once admitted, the university issues a scholarship letter.

• This letter must be presented at the Saudi Embassy to obtain a study visa.

• After arrival, students receive a free residence permit (Iqama) valid throughout their studies.

Application Timeline for 2026

• Each Saudi university sets its own application opening and closing dates.

• Most scholarship calls open between January–April and September–November.

• Applicants must regularly check the websites of their chosen universities for 2026 scholarship announcements.