For many students around the world, studying abroad is not just about earning a degree — it’s about opening doors to new opportunities, cultures, and futures. If you’ve been searching for a scholarship that takes care of tuition, living expenses, and travel, while also offering you the chance to immerse yourself in one of the world’s most dynamic countries, then you’ll want to pay close attention.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced its 2026 fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships are available at 27 public universities across the country and cover undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs in a wide range of subjects.
This initiative is part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 plan, which emphasizes education, research, and international cooperation. For students worldwide, it’s an invitation to join a growing academic community in the heart of the Middle East.
Why Study in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia may be famous for its cultural heritage and economic influence, but in recent years, it has been making serious investments in higher education. The country has built modern campuses, expanded its research centers, and begun competing with global institutions.
Here’s why students are increasingly considering Saudi Arabia as their study destination:
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Quality of Education – Universities like King Saud University, King Abdulaziz University, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals are globally recognized.
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World-Class Research – Saudi universities now house advanced research labs and centers, particularly in the fields of science, engineering, and technology.
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Multicultural Community – With students from over 200 countries already enrolled, you’ll be joining a truly international environment.
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Comprehensive Support – Scholarship holders don’t just get free tuition — they also receive housing, stipends, healthcare, and annual flights.
Choosing Saudi Arabia isn’t only about academics; it’s also about experiencing a culture that blends tradition and modernity, hospitality and innovation.
Scholarship Categories
The scholarships fall into different categories depending on where you live and how much support you receive:
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Internal Scholarships – For students already living in Saudi Arabia with valid residency permits.
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External Scholarships – For students applying from outside the Kingdom.
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Full Scholarships – Cover tuition, housing, stipend, medical care, and airfare.
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Partial Scholarships or Grants – Cover limited costs such as housing or part of the tuition.
Most international students aim for the fully funded package, which ensures that financial concerns won’t hinder their studies.
Degree Levels and Subjects
Scholarships are available for:
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Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s degrees)
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Postgraduate Programs (Master’s and PhDs)
While nearly all academic fields are available, it’s important to note that medical and health-related specialties are usually excluded from the scholarship scheme. Popular choices include engineering, science, technology, Islamic studies, arts, and business.
What Do You Get?
If you’re selected for an external scholarship, you’ll receive:
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Full tuition fee coverage
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Monthly stipend (amount depends on your degree level)
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Free university housing
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Healthcare coverage throughout your studies
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Annual round-trip airfare to your home country
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One-time financial reward upon arrival
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Equal privileges as Saudi students inside universities
It’s a generous package that ensures you can focus on your academic and personal growth without worrying about financial pressures.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility is broad, but you must be from a country with a Saudi Embassy.
Age requirements:
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Undergraduate applicants: 17–25 years old
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Master’s applicants: under 30 years old
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PhD applicants: under 35 years old
Other key conditions include:
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Academic certificates must be officially attested.
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A clean criminal record is required.
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You must pass a medical exam approved by the university.
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You cannot hold another Saudi scholarship simultaneously.
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Female students must have a mahram (male guardian) living in Saudi Arabia.
Application Routes
There are three official ways to apply:
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Direct University Application – Visit the website of the Saudi university you’re interested in and apply through their admission portal.
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Through the Saudi Cultural Attaché – If your country has a Saudi cultural office, you can submit your application there.
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Through the Saudi Embassy – If no cultural attaché exists, apply directly at your local Saudi Embassy.
Every university has its own admission system and timeline, so it’s essential to research the institution you’re interested in.
Required Documents
Before you begin the process, prepare the following:
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Attested academic transcripts and certificates
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A valid passport copy (minimum one-year validity)
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Letters of recommendation (if required)
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A good conduct / no-criminal-record certificate
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A medical fitness certificate
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A statement of purpose (for Master’s and PhD applicants)
Having these documents ready will make your application process much smoother.
Visa and Residence
If accepted, you’ll receive a scholarship letter from your chosen university. This document will assist you in securing a student visa at the Saudi Embassy in your country. Once you arrive, the university will arrange for a free residence permit (Iqama) valid for the duration of your studies.
Application Timeline
Each Saudi university sets its own opening and closing dates for applications. However, the general windows are:
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First Intake: January – April 2026
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Second Intake: September – November 2026
This means you should start preparing your documents well in advance and regularly check the university’s website for official announcements.
The Saudi Government Scholarships 2026 represent more than just financial aid — they are an open door to a world-class education, cultural exchange, and personal growth. With fully funded opportunities available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students, Saudi Arabia is welcoming the next generation of global learners to be part of its academic transformation.
For students seeking to combine a high-quality education with unique cultural experiences, this program could be life-changing. Whether your goal is to advance in research, explore new career pathways, or broaden your horizons, Saudi Arabia may be the right place for you.
Published on: 17 September 2025
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