KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)

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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

Third- and fourth-year bachelor's students and master's students in STEM fields, or recent graduates finishing within one year of the start date. Minimum GPA 3.5 out of 4 (or equivalent) and proof of English. PhD candidates and current KAUST students or alumni cannot apply.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) offers over 150 fully funded 3-to-6-month research internships every year across Biological & Environmental Science (BESE), Computer, Electrical & Mathematical Science (CEMSE), and Physical Science & Engineering (PSE). Interns gain access to KAUST’s multi-billion-dollar core laboratories (nanofabrication cleanrooms, supercomputing, membranes/polymers, solar energy, marine science) on the Red Sea coast while receiving a style="padding-top:40px",000 monthly tax-free stipend and all-inclusive housing and travel.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Third- and fourth-year bachelor's students and master's students in STEM fields, or recent graduates finishing within one year of the start date. Minimum GPA 3.5 out of 4 (or equivalent) and proof of English. PhD candidates and current KAUST students or alumni cannot apply.
2. Note the deadline. Rolling – apply any time of year; start and end dates are flexible (no application fee, one application at a time) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Statement of Purpose: Detailed research statement tailored to the specific VSRP project and KAUST faculty mentor selected from the online project catalog.; Official Academic Transcripts: University transcripts in English showing a cumulative GPA of 3.5/4.0 or higher.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting laboratory skills (e.g., spin-coating, spectroscopy, polymer synthesis, catalysis, or deep learning) and any publications.; Letter of Recommendation: 1 strong reference letter from a faculty member at your home institution, plus valid passport copy..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Eligibility & GPA Verification by KAUST Admissions → Direct Scientific Review & Zoom Interview with the Hosting KAUST Professor → Official VSRP Offer & Saudi Visa Sponsorship.

Profile of past winners

3rd/4th-year Bachelor’s and Master’s students with a 3.5+ GPA who browse the live VSRP project board, email the KAUST professor with a concise pitch linking their lab/coding skills to the posted project, and submit a complete online dossier.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
5. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
6. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.

Quick answers

Who can apply for KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)?

Third- and fourth-year bachelor's students and master's students in STEM fields, or recent graduates finishing within one year of the start date. Minimum GPA 3.5 out of 4 (or equivalent) and proof of English. PhD candidates and current KAUST students or alumni cannot apply.

What does KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) cover?

Fully funded: USD 1,000 a month stipend, a private bedroom and bathroom on campus, round-trip airfare and tuition covered, for a 2 to 6 month research internship

When is the deadline for KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)?

Rolling – apply any time of year; start and end dates are flexible (no application fee, one application at a time) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)?

Host countries: Saudi Arabia.

What documents do I need for KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)?

Statement of Purpose: Detailed research statement tailored to the specific VSRP project and KAUST faculty mentor selected from the online project catalog.; Official Academic Transcripts: University transcripts in English showing a cumulative GPA of 3.5/4.0 or higher.; Curriculum Vitae: Highlighting laboratory skills (e.g., spin-coating, spectroscopy, polymer synthesis, catalysis, or deep learning) and any publications.; Letter of Recommendation: 1 strong reference letter from a faculty member at your home institution, plus valid passport copy..

How are applicants selected for KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP)?

Eligibility & GPA Verification by KAUST Admissions → Direct Scientific Review & Zoom Interview with the Hosting KAUST Professor → Official VSRP Offer & Saudi Visa Sponsorship.

How much work is the KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) application?

High: Online KAUST VSRP Application + Selection of Specific VSRP Faculty Project + Statement of Purpose + CV + Official Transcripts + 1 Reference Letter