Scholarship in Saudi Arabia: Fully Funded Opportunities for International Students 2025

Explore top fully funded scholarships in Saudi Arabia for international students. Learn eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs at leading Saudi universities.

Introduction: Study in the Heart of the Middle East

Saudi Arabia has rapidly become one of the most sought-after destinations for higher education in recent years. Known for its world-class universities, modern research facilities, and generous scholarship programs, the Kingdom is opening its doors to students from around the world.

A scholarship in Saudi Arabia offers more than just free education — it’s a gateway to cultural exchange, academic excellence, and global opportunity. Whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D., you can find fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, housing, living expenses, airfare, and even health insurance.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best scholarships in Saudi Arabia for 2025, eligibility requirements, and how to apply successfully.

Why Choose Saudi Arabia for Higher Education?

Saudi Arabia’s education system has undergone major reforms over the past two decades. The government is investing heavily in education as part of Vision 2030, aiming to build a knowledge-based economy powered by science and innovation.

Here are key reasons to study in Saudi Arabia:

• World-class universities such as KAUST, King Saud University, and King Abdulaziz University.

• Fully funded scholarships for international students in all fields.

• Global research partnerships with universities like MIT, Oxford, and Stanford.

• Cultural diversity and safety in a welcoming Islamic environment.

• Career opportunities in engineering, medicine, energy, and technology.

Saudi Arabia’s universities are among the best in the Middle East, and their scholarships are among the most generous in the world.

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Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Saudi Arabia 2025

Let’s take a look at the most prestigious scholarships in Saudi Arabia available for international students.

1. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Fellowship

The KAUST Fellowship is one of the most famous fully funded scholarships in the region. It supports international students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. degrees in science, engineering, and technology.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly living allowance (up to $3,000)

• Furnished accommodation

• Medical and dental insurance

• Relocation and travel support

Eligibility:

• Strong academic background

• English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)

• Research experience is a plus

Tip: Focus your application essay on how your research aligns with global sustainability or innovation goals.

2. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Scholarships

King Abdulaziz University offers fully funded scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. programs across various disciplines including science, engineering, humanities, and business.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Free accommodation and meals

• Health insurance

• Airfare to and from the home country

Eligibility:

• International students from all countries

• Must have good academic standing and meet program requirements3.Islamic University of Madinah Scholarships

Located in the holy city of Madinah, this university offers fully funded undergraduate scholarships mainly in Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, and Sharia Law, but also in science and engineering fields.

Coverage:

• Full tuition

• Free housing and meals

• Monthly allowance

• Health care and transportation

Eligibility:

• Open to male Muslim students

• Must have a high school certificate or equivalent

Note: Applicants should demonstrate commitment to community development and Islamic values.

4. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) Scholarships

KFUPM is one of the most prestigious universities in the Middle East, specializing in engineering, energy, computer science, and business.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees

• Monthly stipend

• Free furnished housing

• Medical care

• Travel tickets and free textbooks

Eligibility:

• Outstanding academic performance

• Strong background in STEM fields

• Research proposal (for graduate programs)

Bonus: KFUPM frequently collaborates with global industries, providing real-world research opportunities.

5. Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Scholarships (for Women)

Princess Nourah University in Riyadh is the largest women’s university in the world and offers fully funded scholarships for international female students.

Coverage:

• Full tuition

• Monthly stipend

• On-campus housing

• Airfare and health insurance

Eligibility:

• Female international students

• High academic merit and language proficiency

Focus Areas: Education, health sciences, humanities, and computer science.

This scholarship is a great opportunity for women seeking higher education in a supportive, empowering environment.

6. King Saud University (KSU) Scholarships

King Saud University, the oldest university in Saudi Arabia, offers a wide range of fully funded scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Coverage:

• Full tuition and accommodation

• Monthly allowance

• Airfare

• Free health care

Fields of Study: Engineering, science, medicine, humanities, computer science, and business.

7. Ministry of Education Scholarship (Saudi Government Scholarship)

The Saudi Ministry of Education offers annual fully funded scholarships to international students for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

Coverage:

• Tuition and registration fees

• Health insurance

• Monthly stipend

• Airfare tickets

Eligibility:

• Open to citizens of selected countries under bilateral agreements

• Must meet university admission requirements

Focus Areas: Science, engineering, Arabic studies, business, and Islamic law.

This is one of the most comprehensive government scholarships available to international students in Saudi Arabia.

8. Alfaisal University Scholarships

Located in Riyadh, Alfaisal University offers merit-based and fully funded scholarships for international students across multiple disciplines.

Coverage:

• Full or partial tuition

• Monthly allowance (for fully funded students)

• Research funding

Eligibility:

• High academic performance

• Strong extracurricular involvement

Fields: Medicine, business, engineering, and sciences.

  Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships in Saudi Arabia

Although each program has its own requirements, most scholarships in Saudi Arabia share the following criteria:

• Excellent academic performance (minimum GPA equivalent of 3.5/4.0).

• English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).

• Recommendation letters from professors or employers.

• Valid passport and health certificate.

• Research proposal or study plan (for postgraduate studies).

Tip: Always double-check the official university website for the most recent eligibility details before applying.

How to Apply for a Scholarship in Saudi Arabia

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply successfully:

1. Research Your University: Choose a program that fits your academic and career goals.

2. Check Scholarship Availability: Most universities publish their scholarship opportunities between October and March each year.

3. Prepare Documents: Transcripts, recommendation letters, passport copy, motivation letter, and English test results.

4. Submit an Online Application: Fill out the application form through the university’s admission portal.

5. Await Results: Selected applicants will receive email notifications and interview invitations.

6. Apply for a Visa: Once accepted, request a student visa with your official offer letter.

   Tips for a Successful Application

• Apply early: Scholarship deadlines are often months before program start dates.

• Write a strong personal statement: Explain your goals, achievements, and reasons for choosing Saudi Arabia.

• Show leadership: Universities value students with community involvement or innovation projects.

• Proofread: Ensure your application is clear and free of errors.

• Follow up: Keep track of application status and respond promptly to any requests.

  Benefits of Studying in Saudi Arabia on a Fully Funded Scholarship

Winning a scholarship in Saudi Arabia brings life-changing advantages:

• No financial burden: Full coverage of tuition, housing, and daily expenses.

• High-quality education: Access to globally recognized research and labs.

• International exposure: Study alongside students from diverse countries.

• Career opportunities: Saudi Arabia’s growing industries in energy, technology, and healthcare.

• Cultural experience: Learn Arabic, explore rich traditions, and experience the Middle East firsthand.

These scholarships open pathways to both academic success and professional excellence.

Conclusion: Your Pathway to Success Begins in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is not just a destination — it’s a launchpad for global talent. With generous funding, cutting-edge research institutions, and world-class universities, it offers incredible opportunities for international students in 2025 and beyond.

If you’re looking for an affordable yet prestigious way to study abroad, a fully funded scholarship in Saudi Arabia could be your key to success. Start your application early, prepare your documents carefully, and take the first step toward a brighter future.

Your dream of studying in one of the world’s most dynamic regions is within reach — apply today and let Saudi Arabia invest in your future.