The KAUST Scholarship 2027 is an excellent opportunity for international students who want to pursue a fully funded Master’s or PhD degree in Saudi Arabia.
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a research-focused university located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, on the Red Sea coast. The university offers graduate programs in science, engineering, technology and other STEM-related fields.
For eligible graduate students, the KAUST Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support that can include tuition and bench fee coverage, a monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support.
If you are a student from Pakistan or another country looking for a fully funded scholarship in Saudi Arabia, KAUST is an opportunity worth considering.
KAUST Scholarship 2027 – Quick Facts
University: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
Country: Saudi Arabia
Location: Thuwal
Degree Programs: MS, MS/PhD and PhD
Scholarship: KAUST Fellowship
Study Areas: Science, Engineering, Technology and STEM
Tuition: Fully funded for eligible admitted students
Accommodation: Provided through the fellowship
Health Insurance: Included
MS Stipend: $20,000 per year
PhD Stipend: $25,000–$30,000 per year
Application: Online
Eligible Applicants: International students
What Is the KAUST Scholarship?
The KAUST Scholarship is provided through the university’s KAUST Fellowship for eligible graduate students.
The fellowship is designed to provide financial support throughout graduate study and research. According to KAUST’s current funding information, the fellowship can include full tuition and bench fee coverage, a monthly living allowance, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support.
The university states that tuition and bench fee coverage can be worth up to $35,000 per year, while the overall value of the fellowship can reach approximately $70,000–$80,000 per year, depending on the student’s circumstances.
KAUST Scholarship Stipend
The current KAUST funding information lists the following annual living allowances:
MS students: $20,000 per year
PhD students: $25,000–$30,000 per year
This is approximately:
MS: $1,667 per month
PhD: $2,083–$2,500 per month
The exact amount can vary depending on the student’s degree level, qualifications and academic progress. Applicants should always confirm the latest funding information before applying.
KAUST Scholarship 2027 Deadlines
KAUST has different admission cycles for Spring and Fall entry.
Spring 2027 – PhD
Spring 2027 admission is currently available for PhD applicants.
The published timeline includes:
Round 1 deadline: September 27, 2026
Round 1 admission decisions: November 8, 2026
Spring semester begins: January 17, 2027
Fall 2027 – MS, MS/PhD and PhD
The Fall 2027 admission cycle is available for MS, MS/PhD and PhD applicants.
Round 2 opens: September 28, 2026
Round 2 deadline: January 3, 2027
Admission decisions: February 14, 2027
Fall semester begins: August 29, 2027
Admission dates can change depending on application volume and university decisions. Students should check the official KAUST admissions website before submitting an application.
Who Can Apply for KAUST Scholarship 2027?
KAUST looks for students with strong academic backgrounds and clear interests in science, technology and research.
Eligibility depends on the degree program.
Master’s Degree Requirements
Applicants for a Master’s program generally need a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject from a recognized higher education institution.
Relevant academic backgrounds may include:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Environmental Sciences
- Other related STEM fields
PhD Requirements
Applicants for a PhD generally need a Master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized higher education institution.
Applicants should carefully check the requirements of their selected program because professional Master’s qualifications may not always be considered equivalent to an academic Master’s degree.
KAUST GPA Requirement
The minimum permitted GPA is generally 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
However, meeting the minimum GPA does not guarantee admission.
KAUST reports that 90% of admitted applicants typically have a GPA above 3.3, while 75% have a GPA above 3.5.
This means applicants should aim for a strong academic profile rather than applying based only on the minimum GPA requirement.
KAUST English Language Requirements
International students may need to provide proof of English proficiency.
The current KAUST requirements include:
IELTS: 7.0 overall, with at least 6.5 in each section
TOEFL iBT: 5.0 overall, with at least 4.5 in each section
TOEFL Institution Code: 4107
KAUST also accepts other approved English-language tests, including PTE Academic and Cambridge English qualifications, subject to the university’s current score requirements.
Students 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 may qualify for an English-language test exemption.
KAUST states that an MOI certificate is not accepted as proof of English proficiency.
Applicants should check the current official requirements before submitting their application.
Documents Required for KAUST Scholarship
Applicants should prepare their documents before starting the online application.
Commonly required documents include:
- Official university transcripts
- Certified English translations where required
- Curriculum Vitae or CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Contact information for three referees
- English proficiency test score, if required
- Passport identification page
If your academic documents are not in English, you may need to provide certified English translations along with the original documents.
KAUST Statement of Purpose
The Statement of Purpose is an important part of the application.
KAUST asks applicants to explain their academic background, preparation for their selected field, interests, academic plans and career goals.
A strong Statement of Purpose should clearly explain:
- Your academic background
- Your research interests
- Your relevant experience
- Why you selected your field
- Why KAUST is suitable for your goals
- Your future academic and career plans
Avoid submitting a generic statement that could apply to any university.
KAUST Recommendation Letters
Applicants need to provide information for three referees.
Your referees should ideally be professors, academic supervisors or other people who know your academic or research abilities well.
Contact your referees before submitting the application so they are prepared to complete their recommendations on time.
Is GRE Required for KAUST?
No, the GRE is not mandatory for the KAUST application.
However, KAUST states that applicants may submit GRE or PGAT scores and that a strong score can enhance an application.
If you already have a strong GRE score, you may consider submitting it as part of your application.
KAUST Graduate Programs
KAUST offers graduate programs across a wide range of STEM disciplines.
Some of the major study areas include:
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Applied Mathematics
- Applied Physics
- Bioengineering
- Bioscience
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Earth Science and Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Marine Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Plant Science
- Statistics
- Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Not every program offers every degree pathway, so applicants should check the specific program information before applying.
KAUST Master of Science Program
The Master of Science (MS) program is designed for students who want advanced academic and research training in their chosen discipline.
Students combine coursework and research while working in KAUST’s research environment.
The MS program can prepare students for careers in industry, research or further doctoral study.
KAUST MS/PhD Program
The MS/PhD pathway is suitable for students who want to pursue a longer-term research career.
Students can begin at the Master’s level and progress toward a PhD after meeting the relevant academic and program requirements.
The MS/PhD pathway is not available in every discipline, so applicants should check the specific program details.
KAUST PhD Program
The PhD program is designed for students who want to conduct advanced research in their chosen field.
PhD applicants should have clear research interests and should explore KAUST’s faculty members, laboratories and research groups before applying.
Finding a good match between your research interests and KAUST’s research areas can help you prepare a more focused application.
KAUST Scholarship Benefits
The KAUST Fellowship can provide several major benefits to eligible students.
Full Tuition Support
Eligible graduate students receive tuition and bench fee support under the fellowship.
Monthly Living Allowance
Students receive an annual living allowance according to their degree level and applicable fellowship terms.
Campus Accommodation
Base campus accommodation is included in the fellowship for eligible students.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is included as part of the fellowship package.
Relocation Support
Eligible students can receive relocation-related support according to KAUST policies.
These benefits make KAUST particularly attractive for students who are looking for a fully funded Master’s or PhD scholarship.
KAUST Scholarship for Pakistani Students
Pakistani students can apply to KAUST as international applicants if they meet the university’s current requirements.
Students from Pakistan should pay particular attention to their academic transcripts, English-language requirements and application documents.
A strong application should include:
- Good academic performance
- Relevant research or project experience
- A professional CV
- A focused Statement of Purpose
- Strong recommendation letters
- Valid English test results if required
- Relevant academic qualifications
Pakistani students should also verify how their university documents need to be submitted and translated before starting the application.
KAUST Visiting Student Research Program
KAUST also offers research internship opportunities through its Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP).
The program can be an excellent opportunity for undergraduate and Master’s students who want to gain international research experience before applying for a graduate degree.
The published VSRP information lists benefits such as:
- $1,000 monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare
- Campus accommodation
- Health insurance
- Visa support
- Research experience at KAUST
The internship generally lasts around 3–6 months, depending on the research opportunity.
The program information indicates that applications can be submitted throughout the year, subject to available research projects and current eligibility requirements.
Students should check the latest VSRP information on the official KAUST website because internship requirements and available projects can change.
How to Apply for KAUST Scholarship 2027
Applying for the KAUST Scholarship requires careful preparation.
Step 1: Choose Your Program
First, select the MS, MS/PhD or PhD program that matches your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Review the current degree, GPA and English-language requirements for your selected program.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, passport and referee information.
Step 4: Prepare Your English Test
If you are not eligible for an exemption, take the required English-language test and make sure your score meets the current KAUST requirements.
Step 5: Explore Research Areas
For research-focused programs, explore KAUST faculty members, laboratories and research groups that match your interests.
Step 6: Complete the Online Application
Complete the KAUST application form carefully and upload all required documents.
Step 7: Add Your Referees
Provide the contact information of three appropriate referees.
Step 8: Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application before the relevant deadline.
Do not wait until the final day because missing documents or technical problems could delay your application.
How to Increase Your Chances of KAUST Admission
KAUST admission is competitive, so meeting the minimum requirements should not be your only goal.
Maintain a Strong GPA
A strong academic record can make your application more competitive.
Gain Research Experience
Research projects, publications, laboratory experience, internships and strong final-year projects can help demonstrate your research potential.
Write a Strong SOP
Your Statement of Purpose should be specific to KAUST and your selected program.
Explain what you have studied, what interests you, what research problems you want to explore and how KAUST fits into your future plans.
Select Strong Referees
Choose referees who can provide detailed information about your academic performance, research skills and potential.
Research KAUST Faculty
Before applying, explore professors and research groups working in your area of interest.
This is particularly important for PhD applicants.
Apply Early
Start preparing your application well before the deadline.
This gives you enough time to arrange transcripts, English tests and recommendation letters.
KAUST Scholarship 2027 FAQs
Is the KAUST Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The KAUST Fellowship provides comprehensive financial support to eligible admitted graduate students, including tuition and bench fee coverage, a stipend, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support.
How much is the KAUST Scholarship stipend?
The current published funding information lists $20,000 per year for MS students and $25,000–$30,000 per year for PhD students.
Can Pakistani students apply for KAUST?
Yes. Pakistani students can apply as international applicants if they meet KAUST’s current admission requirements.
What is the minimum GPA for KAUST?
The minimum GPA is generally 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent. However, successful applicants often have higher GPAs.
Is IELTS required for KAUST?
Applicants generally need to provide an approved English-language test unless they qualify for an exemption. The current IELTS requirement is 7.0 overall with at least 6.5 in each section.
Is GRE required for KAUST?
No. GRE is not mandatory, although a strong GRE score may strengthen an application.
Does KAUST provide accommodation?
Yes. Base campus accommodation is included in the KAUST Fellowship for eligible students.
What is the Fall 2027 KAUST application deadline?
For Fall 2027 Round 2, the current deadline is January 3, 2027.
Can undergraduate students apply for KAUST?
The main KAUST Scholarship is for graduate-level study. Undergraduate and Master’s students can also explore research internship opportunities such as VSRP if they meet the current eligibility requirements.
Final Thoughts
The KAUST Scholarship 2027 in Saudi Arabia is a valuable opportunity for students who want to pursue a fully funded Master’s or PhD in a research-focused international university.
The fellowship can cover major study and living expenses, including tuition, accommodation, health insurance and a monthly living allowance.
For Pakistani students interested in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering, Mathematics, Energy, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science and other STEM fields, KAUST is worth considering.
However, admission is competitive. Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee selection. A strong GPA, relevant research experience, well-written Statement of Purpose, strong recommendations and a clear academic direction can help create a more competitive application.
Before applying, always check the latest KAUST admission deadlines, program requirements, English-language requirements and fellowship information on the official KAUST website.
Official KAUST Links
KAUST Official Website:
https://www.kaust.edu.sa
KAUST Admissions:
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa
KAUST Funding and Fellowship:
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/fees-funding
KAUST Admission Requirements:
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/entry-requirements
KAUST Admission Timeline:
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/admission-timelines
Important: Scholarship deadlines, eligibility criteria, available programs and funding benefits can change. Always verify the latest information directly from KAUST before submitting your application.