Looking to pursue your PhD in one of the most prestigious universities in the Middle East? The King Saud University Initiative 2025/26 is now open for applications! Located in Riyadh, King Saud University (KSU) was founded in 1957 and proudly holds the title of Saudi Arabia’s first university.
This initiative is designed to attract bright minds from both Saudi Arabia and around the world, providing them the opportunity to undertake fully funded PhD studies in various academic fields. There’s no application fee, and all your expenses will be covered under this scholarship. Successful applicants will commence their studies in either the Fall semester (August 2025) or the Winter semester (January 2026).
Below, you’ll find detailed information on the scholarship benefits, eligibility criteria, available fields, and how to apply.
Quick Overview
- Host Country: Saudi Arabia
- University: King Saud University (KSU)
- Location: Riyadh
- Degree Level: PhD
- Scholarship Duration: 3 Years
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 15th May 2025
Scholarship Benefits
The King Saud University Initiative offers a comprehensive package, covering:
- Full Tuition Fees
- Annual Living Allowance: $14,400
- Free On-Campus Housing
- Health Insurance
- Relocation Assistance (for students coming from outside Riyadh)
- Opportunities for Part-Time Work
- Post-Graduation Work Visa: Eligible to work in Saudi Arabia for up to one year after graduation
Available PhD Fields
- Computer Sciences
- Engineering
- Basic & Applied Sciences
- Health & Medical Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries.
- Educational Background:
- Must hold a Master’s degree from an accredited institution.
- English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 61
- IELTS: Minimum score of 6
- STEP: Minimum score of 85
- Note: If your Master’s degree is from accredited universities in the USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand, you may qualify for a language test waiver.
- KSU IELTS Code: 147080
- KSU TOEFL Code: 7498
- Additional Documents Required:
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- Personal Interview (if shortlisted)
How to Apply?
Applications are to be submitted through the official online portal of King Saud University. Simply click the link below to start your application and access more details:
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Don’t miss out! Apply before May 15th, 2025, and take the next step in your academic journey at King Saud University.