About the opportunity
KAUST is a world-class graduate research university located on the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia. It provides an innovative, purpose-built environment where students and researchers from over 100 nationalities collaborate on urgent global challenges in science, engineering, and technology. The university offers rigorous Master’s and PhD programs, including a combined MS/PhD pathway, supported by internationally recognized faculty and state-of-the-art research facilities. KAUST is committed to fostering leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship, providing students with access to industry partnerships and a global alumni network. The university’s fellowship program ensures that admitted students can focus entirely on their research and academic goals without financial barriers.
Funding and benefits
- Full tuition and bench fee coverage (up to USD $35,000 per year)
- Monthly stipend (USD $20,000 per year for M.S. students; USD $25,000 to $30,000 for Ph.D. students)
- Base accommodation (shared for single students, 2-bed for married students)
- Health insurance for students and eligible dependents living on campus
- Relocation support (visa, travel, and relocation costs for initial move and return home upon graduation)
Who can apply?
- Applicants for Master's, PhD, or MS/PhD pathway programs
- Spring 2027 admission is restricted to PhD applicants only
- Fall 2027 admission is open to MS, MS/PhD, and PhD applicants
- Some students with external sponsorship or funding may not be eligible for the KAUST Fellowship
Required documents
- Refer to the official admission requirements page for specific documentation details
When to apply
- Applications for 2027 entry open in August 2026
- Spring 2027 (PhD only): Round 1 application deadline is 2026-09-27
- Fall 2027 (MS, MS/PhD, PhD): Round 2 application opens 2026-09-28
- Fall 2027 (MS, MS/PhD, PhD): Round 2 application deadline is 2027-01-03
How to apply
- Explore faculty profiles and research areas to find a suitable program
- Create an application account on the KAUST admissions portal
- Upload all required supporting documentation
- Submit the completed application through the portal
Additional information
- Spring semester starts 2027-01-17
- Fall semester starts 2027-08-29
- Housing upgrades are available for eligible students subject to an additional fee
- KAUST also offers year-round faculty-led research internships and short courses in AI, machine learning, and data science
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Applicants for Master's, PhD, or MS/PhD pathway programs.
- Students who want to integrate into a global research community with state-of-the-art facilities.
- LThose seeking a comprehensive funding package including tuition, stipend, and housing.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program is on-site in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, requiring relocation.
- Spring 2027 admission is restricted to PhD applicants only.
- You should verify if your external sponsorship or funding makes you ineligible for the KAUST Fellowship.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is a perfect fit for those aiming for a Master's or PhD in science, engineering, or technology who want to focus entirely on their research without financial barriers.
Our take
An exceptional choice for students seeking a fully funded, world-class graduate education in science and technology with comprehensive financial support.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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