King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 offer an outstanding opportunity for highly motivated researchers from Saudi Arabia and across the globe to pursue doctoral studies at one of the region’s leading universities in Riyadh. This prestigious initiative is designed to attract academically excellent and research-driven students who are ready to contribute to innovation, advanced research, and global knowledge development.
Approved by the university’s Board of Directors, the King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 align with Saudi Vision 2030, which focuses on strengthening higher education and scientific research to support sustainable national growth. With the rising global demand for advanced research expertise, this program aims to bring together exceptional minds and create a dynamic academic environment that encourages discovery, collaboration, and long-term impact.
Benefits
All eligible full-time students will be granted the following benefits under the Initiative, which provides support throughout their PhD studies (for 3 years). These benefits include:
- Full tuition support
- Monthly living allowance [a total of 54,000 ($ 14,400) annually]
- On-campus Housing
- Comprehensive health coverage at the university hospitals
- Relocation support for students from outside Riyadh
- Part-time work opportunities might be available
- Eligibility to work in KSA for up to one year after graduation
Eligibility Criteria
- Master’s degree from an accredited institution
- English proficiency: Only official TOEFL, IELTS, and STEP scores will be accepted. KSU requires a minimum TOEFL score of 61 on the IBT (Internet Based Test) or 6 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or 85 on STEP. The KSU admissions code for IELTS (147080) and for TOEFL (7498). A waiver from this requirement is possible if the applicant received a Master’s degree from an accredited institution in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
- Two letters of recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), with an evidence of a recent publication or a patent if available.
- A statement of purpose.
- The GRE general test is preferable, but not required, unless specified by the selected program.
- A personal interview may be required (virtual or in-person).
Required Documents
To apply, candidates must submit:
- A Master’s degree certificate from an accredited institution.
- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP scores.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) with evidence of a recent publication or patent
- A statement of purpose.
- GRE general test score (if required by the program).
- Any additional requirements specified by the department/program.
Available Fields
The following fields are eligible for King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026:
- Computer Sciences
- Engineering
- Basic and Applied Sciences
- Health and Medical Sciences
How to Apply?
- Visit the official King Saud University Initiative portal and create an online account to start your application.
- Choose your preferred PhD program from the list of selected programs offered under the initiative.
- Prepare all required documents, including a Master’s degree certificate, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP), two recommendation letters, CV, and a statement of purpose.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details, then upload all supporting documents in the specified format.
- If your program requires it, submit GRE scores and be prepared for a personal interview, which may be conducted online or in person.
- Submit your application before the official deadline and regularly check your account for notifications, updates, or additional document requests.
- Wait for the selection results, which will be communicated through the application portal. Successful applicants will receive instructions to complete visa, relocation, and enrollment procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 offer full funding for selected PhD programs. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements, submit all documents, and compete for selection. Scholarships cover tuition, living costs, housing, health, and relocation support.
What are King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026?
King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 are designed to attract highly talented students to pursue full-time PhD programs in selected fields. The initiative provides full tuition support, living allowance, housing, health coverage, and research opportunities for three years.
Who is eligible for these scholarships?
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree from an accredited institution, demonstrate English proficiency via TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP, submit two recommendation letters, a CV with publications if any, and a statement of purpose. GRE may be required depending on the program.
Which PhD programs are available?
The King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 are offered for selected PhD programs in Computer Sciences, Engineering, Basic and Applied Sciences, and Health and Medical Sciences. Programs include coursework, dissertation research, qualifying exams, and a dissertation defense.
How do I apply for the King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026?
Applications must be submitted through the official initiative portal. Complete the online registration, fill in all academic and personal information, upload required documents, and submit before the official deadline to be considered for review.
Are interviews required for applicants?
After the initial evaluation of applications, candidates may be asked to attend an interview either online or in-person. This step helps assess research potential, academic competence, and fit for the selected PhD program.
Can international students apply for the King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026?
Yes, international students can apply. Those outside Saudi Arabia will need to apply for an educational visa once accepted, and the university provides guidance to complete all visa and relocation processes.
Are English language tests mandatory?
Yes, TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP are required. Minimum scores are TOEFL iBT 61, IELTS 6, or STEP 85. A waiver may be granted if the applicant completed a Master’s degree from accredited institutions in specific English-speaking countries.
Does holding a job affect eligibility?
The King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026 are only for full-time students. Applicants currently employed in full or part-time positions are not eligible to receive the scholarship under this initiative.
Is the GRE required?
GRE is preferred but not mandatory unless specified by the selected PhD program. Some programs may require it as part of their admission assessment to evaluate the candidate’s readiness for advanced research.
Does meeting requirements guarantee King Saud University PhD Scholarships 2026?
No, scholarships are awarded competitively. Meeting minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection. The initiative’s steering committee evaluates all applications, and only the top candidates are offered scholarships based on merit and program fit.
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