KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD)

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a relevant Master’s degree for PhD programmes, in KAUST’s STEM fields

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

KAUST funds every admitted full-time graduate student through the KAUST Fellowship. You apply once for admission and are automatically considered for the fellowship. Spring entry is for PhD applicants only, and its 2027 round has already closed. MS/PhD and PhD applicants can name the faculty members they would like to work with.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a relevant Master’s degree for PhD programmes, in KAUST’s STEM fields
2. Note the deadline. Jan 3 (annual; Fall 2027 intake for MS, MS/PhD and PhD: applications opened on 28 Sep 2026 and close on 3 Jan 2027; a PhD-only Spring round closes in late Sep) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose; Recommendation letters; English proficiency score if required.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Name specific KAUST faculty whose research matches yours
2. Check the programme page for its own requirements before you apply
3. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
4. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
5. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
6. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
7. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
8. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD)?

International applicants are welcome. A relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programmes and a relevant Master’s degree for PhD programmes, in KAUST’s STEM fields

What does KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD) cover?

Fellowship for admitted full-time students: tuition and fees covered, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support. No separate fellowship application

When is the deadline for KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD)?

Jan 3 (annual; Fall 2027 intake for MS, MS/PhD and PhD: applications opened on 28 Sep 2026 and close on 3 Jan 2027; a PhD-only Spring round closes in late Sep) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD)?

Host countries: Saudi Arabia.

What documents do I need for KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD)?

Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose; Recommendation letters; English proficiency score if required.

How much work is the KAUST Fellowship (Master's & PhD) application?

High: Online KAUST admissions application + transcripts + CV + statement + recommendation letters + English proficiency