Overview
The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026, also known as the KAUST Fellowship, is a fully funded graduate scholarship for international students who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in science, engineering, and technology. Offered by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, the scholarship supports advanced research aimed at solving major global challenges.
All admitted graduate students at KAUST automatically receive the fellowship. The funding package includes full tuition coverage, on-campus housing, medical insurance, relocation support, and an annual living stipend of up to USD 30,000. Applications are open to candidates from all countries, making this one of the most competitive and generous scholarships in Asia.
About the University / Organization
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a world-class, graduate-level research university located on the Red Sea coast in Saudi Arabia. The university is internationally recognized for its advanced laboratories, high-impact research output, and strong collaboration with global academic institutions and industry partners.
KAUST hosts a diverse academic community representing more than 120 nationalities, offering an international research environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and leading faculty members.
Scholarship Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | KAUST Fellowship (King Abdullah University Scholarship) |
| Host Institution | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology |
| Study Location | Saudi Arabia |
| Degree Levels | Master’s, PhD |
| Fields | Science, Engineering, Technology |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Applicants | All Nationalities |
| Application Deadline | March 2026 |
Financial Coverage
The KAUST Scholarship 2026 is a comprehensive fully funded package. Every admitted student receives the following benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Annual living stipend ranging from USD 20,000 to USD 30,000, depending on degree level and academic progress
- Free on-campus housing
- Medical and dental insurance coverage
- Relocation and travel support
This funding structure allows students to focus entirely on research and academic development without financial concerns.
Available Fields of Study
KAUST offers a wide range of graduate programs in science and technology–focused disciplines, including:
- Engineering (various specializations)
- Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Mathematics and Applied Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Chemical Sciences
- Biological and Environmental Sciences
All programs emphasize research, innovation, and real-world problem-solving.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the academic and language requirements for their chosen degree program.
Master’s Degree Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as engineering, mathematics, or physical, chemical, or biological sciences
- Degree must be from an institution recognized by KAUST
Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)
- Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering from a recognized institution
PhD Degree Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant science or engineering field
English Language Requirements
All applicants must provide proof of English proficiency:
- IELTS: minimum 6.5, or
- TOEFL iBT: minimum 79
Apply Also
- Canadian Government Scholarships 2026 | Fully Funded Study & Research in Canada
- Fully Funded Volunteering in the Czech Republic 2026 | Monthly Stipend & Free Accommodation
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents through the online application system:
- Official academic transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- Official IELTS or TOEFL score report
- GRE scores (optional but recommended to strengthen the application)
All documents must be accurate and complete for the application to be considered.
How to Apply
The application process for the KAUST Scholarship 2026 is fully online and straightforward:
- Visit the official KAUST admissions portal
- Apply for admission to a Master’s or PhD program
- Upload all required documents
- Submit the application before the deadline
There is no separate scholarship application. All candidates admitted to KAUST graduate programs are automatically considered for the KAUST Fellowship.
Successful applicants will be notified by email after the evaluation process.
Application Deadline
The expected application deadline is March 2026. Specific deadlines may vary by program, so applicants are encouraged to check their chosen department’s timeline and apply early.
Conclusion
The King Abdullah University Scholarship 2026 (KAUST Fellowship) is one of the most prestigious fully funded graduate scholarships available globally. With generous financial support, cutting-edge research facilities, and an international academic community, KAUST offers an exceptional environment for students aiming to contribute to scientific and technological advancement.
Students with strong academic backgrounds and research ambitions are highly encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to study in Saudi Arabia under full funding.
