Key Takeaways
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is accepting applications for MS and PhD programs starting in January 2027.
- Applicants must submit their forms by September 27, 2026, for the January 2027 intake and September 28, 2026, to January 3, 2027, for the August 2027 intake.
- The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly allowance for living expenses.
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia is offering fully-funded scholarship programs for Master of Science (MS) and PhD students starting in January 2027. Applications are now open and will close on September 27, 2026, for the January intake and September 28, 2026, to January 3, 2027, for the August intake.
Applicants for the MS program need a relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution and must apply by September 27, 2026. The MS program offers a 1.5-year course without a thesis and a two-year course with a thesis. Fellowship recipients receive an annual allowance of $20,000, paid in monthly installments.
For PhD applicants, a relevant master’s degree from a recognized institution is required. The usual duration of the PhD program is four years, and fellowship recipients receive an annual allowance of $25,000 to $30,000, paid monthly. The amount depends on the applicant's qualifications and academic progress.
KAUST also offers a combined MS/PhD program, available in selected subjects, which takes around 5.5 to six years. Students who meet the progression requirements can continue to the PhD without submitting a new application.
The scholarship covers full tuition and bench fees, valued at up to $35,000 a year, as well as standard accommodation and health insurance. Standard housing includes shared accommodation for single students and two-bedroom accommodation for married students. Eligible students can request housing upgrades for an additional fee. Health insurance also covers eligible dependents living on campus.
KAUST provides visa, travel, and relocation support for the student’s initial move to the university and return home after graduation. Some students with external sponsorship or funding may not qualify for the fellowship.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old when they enroll and meet the qualifications for their chosen program. The minimum GPA is 3.0 out of 4.0, or its equivalent. Students completing their current degree can apply with their latest academic record and must provide final official transcripts before enrollment. GRE and PGAT scores are optional.
English language requirements include a minimum overall score of 7 in the IELTS test. The application process is now open, and decisions are scheduled for November 8, 2026, for the January 2027 intake and February 14, 2027, for the August 2027 intake.
Classes for the January 2027 intake will begin on January 17, 2027, while the August 2027 intake will start on August 29, 2027.
