Study in Saudi Arabia with the KAUST Fellowship 2027
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia offers fully funded graduate study opportunities for outstanding students from around the world through its KAUST Fellowship.
For the 2027 admission cycle, international applicants can apply for eligible Master’s, combined Master’s/PhD and PhD programmes in science, engineering, technology and related research fields.
The KAUST Fellowship provides substantial financial support, including full tuition and bench-fee coverage, a monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance and relocation assistance.
Unlike many external scholarship schemes, eligible admitted students do not need to submit a separate application for the KAUST Fellowship. The fellowship is awarded automatically to admitted students, subject to the University’s funding conditions.
Fall 2027 applications are open. The current Round 2 deadline is 3 January 2027.
KAUST Scholarship 2027: Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| University | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Location | Thuwal |
| Academic year | 2027–28 |
| Study levels | Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD |
| Funding | KAUST Fellowship |
| Tuition | Fully covered |
| Master’s stipend | USD 20,000 per year |
| PhD stipend | USD 25,000–30,000 per year |
| Accommodation | Included |
| Health insurance | Included |
| Relocation | Support provided |
| Nationality | International applicants |
| GRE | Not compulsory |
| English test | Required unless exempt |
| Fall 2027 deadline | 3 January 2027 |
What Does the KAUST Fellowship Cover?
The KAUST Fellowship is designed to allow graduate students to concentrate on their studies and research without having to meet the usual costs of graduate education.
1. Full Tuition and Bench Fees
The fellowship covers 100% of tuition and bench fees, valued at up to USD 35,000 per year.
2. Annual Living Stipend
The published fellowship benefits include:
- Master’s students: USD 20,000 per year.
- PhD students: USD 25,000–30,000 per year, depending on qualifications and academic progress.
The stipend is intended to support students’ living expenses during their studies.
3. Accommodation
Base campus accommodation is included. The standard allocation depends on the student’s circumstances. Housing upgrades may be available for an additional fee.
4. Health Insurance
Health insurance is included for students and eligible dependants living on campus, subject to the University’s conditions.
5. Relocation Support
The fellowship includes relocation assistance, including eligible visa, travel and relocation costs. The University provides the applicable details to successful applicants.
6. Research Environment
Students benefit from access to KAUST’s research facilities, laboratories, faculty expertise and international academic community.
The University estimates the overall value of the fellowship at approximately USD 70,000–80,000 per year, depending on the student’s circumstances.
Available Study Programmes
KAUST offers graduate programmes across scientific and technological disciplines. Applicants should check the current programme directory to identify which degree pathways are available for their intended entry term.
Research areas include:
- Applied Mathematics and Computational Science
- Bioengineering
- Bioscience
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Marine Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Plant Science
- Statistics
- Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
Not every department necessarily offers every degree pathway. Check the official programme pages before applying.
Available Degree Pathways
Master’s (MS)
Applicants with a relevant Bachelor’s degree can apply for an eligible Master’s programme.
Combined Master’s/PhD
The MS/PhD pathway is intended for students who have completed, or are about to complete, a relevant Bachelor’s degree and wish to pursue a research-focused academic pathway.
Students can progress towards the PhD without submitting a separate PhD application, provided they satisfy the required progression conditions.
PhD
Applicants normally need a relevant Master’s degree for direct PhD admission.
Professional Master’s qualifications may not be considered equivalent to the academic Master’s degree required for entry, so applicants should check the University’s guidance carefully.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should review the requirements for their intended degree and academic programme.
The general entry requirements include:
- A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s admission.
- A relevant Master’s degree for PhD admission.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent.
- At least 18 years of age upon entry.
- Evidence of English-language proficiency unless exempt.
- A strong academic record and clear research interests.
KAUST notes that admission is competitive. Its published admissions guidance indicates that most admitted students have GPAs above 3.3, with many above 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Meeting the minimum GPA does not guarantee admission.
English Language Requirements: IELTS, TOEFL and PTE
KAUST requires official English-language proficiency evidence unless an applicant qualifies for an exemption.
The current admissions requirements list:
| Test | Minimum score |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 7.0 overall, with at least 6.5 in each component |
| TOEFL iBT | 5.0 overall, with at least 4.5 in each component |
| PTE Academic | 71 overall, with at least 67 in each component |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced/C2 Proficiency | 185 overall, with at least 176 in each component |
KAUST accepts certain exemptions for applicants who completed an eligible degree through in-person study at an accredited institution in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia or New Zealand. Other specific exemptions are also listed by the University.
Important: KAUST does not accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate as a substitute for its English-language proficiency requirement. Applicants should consult the official policy before deciding whether they need a test.
Is GRE Required for KAUST?
No. GRE is not a compulsory application requirement.
However, KAUST states that applicants may submit GRE or PGAT results, and a strong score may strengthen an application.
Applicants should focus on their academic record, research preparation, statement of purpose and programme fit rather than assuming that the absence of a GRE score makes them ineligible.
Required Application Documents
Prepare the following documents:
- Academic transcripts from all previously attended higher education institutions.
- Degree certificates or evidence of current academic progress.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Statement of Purpose, approximately 750 words.
- Contact details for three referees.
- Official English-language test results, if required.
- Passport identification page.
- Certified English translations of academic documents originally issued in another language.
The three referees are normally expected to submit their recommendations directly through the admissions system. Contact them in advance and allow sufficient time for submission.
KAUST Scholarship 2027 Application Deadlines
The latest published admissions timeline lists the following dates:
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Fall 2027 Round 2 opens | 28 September 2026 |
| Fall 2027 Round 2 deadline | 3 January 2027 |
| Round 2 decisions | 14 February 2027 |
| Fall semester begins | 29 August 2027 |
The University describes these dates as tentative and subject to change.
Spring 2027 admission was open only to PhD applicants. Its Round 1 deadline was 27 September 2026, which has passed.
Applicants should check the admissions timeline before submitting.
How to Apply for the KAUST Scholarship 2027
Step 1: Explore the Graduate Programmes
Visit the official KAUST graduate admissions website and identify a programme aligned with your academic background and research interests.
Step 2: Review Entry Requirements
Check the programme’s degree requirements, GPA expectations, English-language requirements and research areas.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, passport information and referee details.
Step 4: Submit the Online Application
Create an account on the official KAUST admissions portal and complete the application before the relevant deadline.
Step 5: Arrange Your References
Enter the details of three suitable referees. They will receive instructions to submit their recommendations directly through the admissions system.
Step 6: Attend an Interview if Invited
Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an online interview with faculty members from their intended subject area.
Step 7: Receive Your Admission Decision
KAUST communicates application decisions by email according to the published admissions timeline.
Step 8: Review Your Fellowship Offer
Successful applicants should carefully review their admission and fellowship conditions.
There is no separate KAUST Fellowship application for eligible admitted students.
How Competitive Is KAUST Admission?
KAUST is a research-intensive graduate university. Applicants should demonstrate more than basic eligibility.
A strong application will normally connect:
- Relevant academic preparation.
- Good academic performance.
- Research experience or potential.
- A clear statement of purpose.
- Appropriate programme selection.
- Strong academic recommendations.
- Specific research interests.
Applicants should explain why their intended research area fits the programme and how their previous academic experience has prepared them for graduate-level work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the KAUST Scholarship fully funded?
Eligible admitted students receive the KAUST Fellowship, which covers tuition and bench fees, provides a stipend and includes accommodation, health insurance and relocation support under the University’s terms.
Can international students apply?
Yes. KAUST welcomes applicants from around the world.
Is IELTS required?
Most applicants need an accepted English-language test unless they qualify for an official exemption.
Does KAUST accept an MOI certificate?
No. The current admissions policy does not accept an MOI certificate as evidence of English-language proficiency.
Is GRE compulsory?
No. GRE is optional, although a strong result may strengthen an application.
Can Bachelor’s graduates apply for a PhD?
Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree may be eligible for the combined MS/PhD pathway where offered. Direct PhD admission normally requires a relevant Master’s degree.
Do I need a separate scholarship application?
No. Eligible admitted students automatically receive the KAUST Fellowship, subject to the University’s funding conditions.
What is the Fall 2027 deadline?
The current Round 2 deadline is 3 January 2027. Always check the official admissions timeline for changes.
Can I apply with a GPA of 3.0?
The minimum permitted GPA is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or equivalent. However, admission is competitive, and meeting the minimum does not guarantee selection.
Final Thoughts
The KAUST Fellowship 2027 provides an opportunity to pursue graduate study in Saudi Arabia with substantial financial support and access to a research-focused academic environment.
Applicants should start by identifying a suitable programme, reviewing its entry requirements and preparing a well-supported application.
With the current Fall 2027 Round 2 deadline set for 3 January 2027, prospective students have time to prepare their documents, contact referees and refine their research goals.
Always confirm the latest programme availability, admissions requirements and deadlines through the official KAUST website.
Official Application Links
- KAUST Graduate Admissions: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/
- Application Portal: https://apply.kaust.edu.sa/apply/
- Admissions Timeline: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/admission-timelines
- Fees and Funding: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/fees-funding
- Entry Requirements: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/entry-requirements
- Study Programmes: https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/study/ms-phd-degree
GYO Global Advisory
Need help preparing your KAUST application? GYO Global Advisory can support applicants with profile assessment, programme selection, CV review, statement-of-purpose feedback, document review and application strategy.
Contact: application.gyoglobaladvisory@gmail.com
GYO Global Advisory does not guarantee admission, scholarships or visa approval.