Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students

Ministry of Education, 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

Non-Saudi students outside the Kingdom aged 17 to 25 for undergraduate study (up to 30 for a master's and 35 for a doctorate), who do not already hold a scholarship from a Saudi institution and have not been dismissed from one. Attested certificates, a police certificate and a medical examination are required, and government approval is needed for students from countries that require it. The page also states that a mahram (male guardian) must accompany the student under the applicable instructions. Health and medical specialties are not open to online application.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Study in Saudi is the Saudi Ministry of Education platform where international students apply for external scholarships at Saudi universities. Each university sets its own programmes, deadlines and benefits.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Non-Saudi students outside the Kingdom aged 17 to 25 for undergraduate study (up to 30 for a master's and 35 for a doctorate), who do not already hold a scholarship from a Saudi institution and have not been dismissed from one. Attested certificates, a police certificate and a medical examination are required, and government approval is needed for students from countries that require it. The page also states that a mahram (male guardian) must accompany the student under the applicable instructions. Health and medical specialties are not open to online application.
2. Note the deadline. Opening dates are set by each public university according to its academic year (no fixed dates on the Ministry page - apply through the university website or the Saudi Cultural Attache in your country) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Academic certificates and transcripts; Passport copy; Language proficiency evidence if requested.
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. Shortlist two or three universities and compare their benefits before applying
2. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
3. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
4. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
5. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
7. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students?

Non-Saudi students outside the Kingdom aged 17 to 25 for undergraduate study (up to 30 for a master's and 35 for a doctorate), who do not already hold a scholarship from a Saudi institution and have not been dismissed from one. Attested certificates, a police certificate and a medical examination are required, and government approval is needed for students from countries that require it. The page also states that a mahram (male guardian) must accompany the student under the applicable instructions. Health and medical specialties are not open to online application.

What does Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students cover?

Scholarship students are sponsored without tuition fees. Scholarships are free (full benefits), partial (for example a seat only, or a seat and housing) or paid grants. External scholarships can include family health care where regulations require, a financial reward on arrival, housing, the same privileges as fellow students and annual travel tickets. The stipend amount is not stated.

When is the deadline for Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students?

Opening dates are set by each public university according to its academic year (no fixed dates on the Ministry page - apply through the university website or the Saudi Cultural Attache in your country) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students?

Host countries: Saudi Arabia.

What documents do I need for Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students?

Academic certificates and transcripts; Passport copy; Language proficiency evidence if requested.

How much work is the Study in Saudi: Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students application?

Medium: Application through the Study in Saudi platform or the university portal + academic documents