About King Abdulaziz University and Its Scholarship Program
King Abdulaziz University, located in Jeddah in the western region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a highly regarded institution with a global reputation. As part of its mission to spread quality higher education and enhance cultural exchange, the university offers a range of scholarship opportunities designed for international students. These scholarship programs open doors for students from around the world to study at KAU, offering access to a wide variety of disciplines and degrees.
Diverse Programs Available Under the Scholarship Scheme
KAU’s scholarship for international students in Saudi Arabia covers a broad spectrum of academic levels and fields. It includes:
Arabic Language Diploma
For non-Arabic speakers who wish to learn the language and immerse themselves in Arabic culture, KAU offers an Arabic Language Diploma. This programme typically spans four semesters, culminating in approx. 60 academic units and about 960 teaching hours total (around 240 hours per semester). It provides two types of certificates: one for linguistic preparation after the first year and another for the full diploma upon completion.
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs
International students can apply to many of the undergraduate faculties at KAU, which feature a wide variety of specialisations. Some of the faculties include Arts & Humanities, Economics & Administration, Law, Science, Communication & Media, Environmental Design, Marine Sciences, Engineering, Meteorology & Arid Land Agriculture, Earth Sciences, Computing & Information Technology, and multiple branch campuses. The programmes cover fields as varied as Arabic language and literature, urban planning, geology, industrial engineering, computer science and much more.
Graduate (Master’s & PhD) Programs
For those pursuing advanced studies, KAU offers fully-funded programmes at the Master’s and PhD levels across many faculties, including Science, Engineering, Computing, Environmental Design, Marine Sciences and more. Programs such as Thermal Engineering & Desalination Technology, Marine Geology, Computer Science research, Urban and Regional Planning, and other cutting-edge fields are included.
Scholarship Benefits and Coverage
The scholarship offered by KAU to international students is comprehensive. According to the official portal: the university covers tuition fees and also provides housing, health insurance, and academic support for incoming students. Additional external sources confirm benefits such as a monthly stipend, arrival preparation allowance, two-way airfare, subsidised meals, and residential accommodation.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To apply for the KAU scholarship, international students need to meet certain requirements:
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The scholarship is open to all nationalities (international students from around the world) under the external scholarship scheme.
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For undergraduate programmes: applicants must hold a secondary school certificate (or equivalent) and satisfy the age criteria (e.g., many sources mention age between 17-25 years for undergraduates).
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For Master’s and PhD programmes: applicants need to hold a relevant undergraduate degree (for Master’s) or a Master’s degree (for PhD) from a recognised institution, with good academic standing (e.g., “very good” grade). Language proficiency in English (or Arabic for certain programmes) and submission of recommendation letters may also be required.
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Applicants must be of good conduct, medically fit, not been dismissed from any institution, and meet any programme-specific requirements (including age limits for certain levels).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Here is a general application workflow for the KAU international scholarship:
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Visit KAU’s official scholarship portal (or the “External Scholarships for International Students” section) and explore available programmes.
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Choose your level of study (Arabic Language Diploma, Undergraduate, Master’s or PhD) and select a faculty and major that align with your goals.
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Create an account on the online application portal, complete the application form with accurate personal and academic information.
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Upload supporting documents: academic transcripts/certificates, passport copy, statement of purpose (especially for postgraduate programmes), letters of recommendation, language test scores if needed, medical fitness certificate, etc.
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Submit the application before the specified deadline. Deadlines may vary by level and faculty — for example, some sources mention 14 June for Bachelor’s and 31 October for Master’s/PhD.
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Wait for the selection committee’s review. If approved, you will receive an admission and scholarship offer, followed by details about residence, financial support, and visa/entry formalities.
Why Choose King Abdulaziz University?
KAU stands out for several reasons: it offers academic excellence in a diverse array of fields — from nuclear engineering, aeronautical engineering and marine sciences to humanities, social sciences and Arabic language studies. The scholarship programme ensures that financial barriers are removed, enabling talented students from across the globe to access world-class education. With its modern facilities, global recognition, and vibrant international student community, KAU offers a unique learning environment.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a fully funded opportunity to study abroad with strong academic and financial support, the King Abdulaziz University Scholarships provide a remarkable pathway. Whether you aim to learn Arabic, pursue a bachelor’s degree in engineering, or conduct high-level research at PhD level, KAU offers you strong programmes and backing to succeed. Begin your application early, prepare the required documents, and seize this international chance to study in Saudi Arabia.
