Study in Saudi Arabia for International Students (2025 Guide)

Saudi Arabia has become one of the fastest-growing education hubs in the Middle East, offering high-quality universities, affordable tuition fees, and generous fully funded scholarships. With programs available in both English and Arabic, the country attracts thousands of international students each year.

This guide explains everything you need to know about studying in Saudi Arabia—requirements, costs, scholarships, top universities, and the full application process.

Why Study in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia offers a unique blend of academic excellence, rich culture, and modern infrastructure. Students benefit from:

• World-class universities with modern labs and strong global rankings

• Affordable tuition fees compared to Western countries

• Fully funded government and university scholarships

• Safe learning environment with strict security standards

• Programs in both English and Arabic

• Opportunities for research, internships, and industry connections

Admission Requirements to Study in Saudi Arabia

Undergraduate Requirements

To apply for a bachelor’s degree, international students typically need:

• High school certificate (equivalent to Grade 12)

• English language proof (IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL 500+)

• Copy of passport

• Medical fitness certificate

• Age limit: 17–25 years

• All documents translated into English or Arabic

• Some universities require an interview or entrance test

Masters & PhD Requirements

For postgraduate programs:

• Relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree

• IELTS/TOEFL scores (if program is in English)

• Academic transcripts

• Passport copy

• Letters of recommendation (sometimes required)

• Age limit: ≤30 for Master’s / ≤35 for PhD

• Possible interview or research proposal submission

Study in Saudi Arabia with a Scholarship

Saudi Arabia offers many fully funded scholarships for international students. Benefits may include:

• Full tuition fee waiver

• Monthly stipend

• Free accommodation

• Health insurance

• Annual air tickets

• Access to libraries and labs

Top Scholarships in Saudi Arabia

1. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Scholarship

• Full tuition

• Annual stipend up to $30,000

• Housing + health insurance

• Travel support

• For Master’s & PhD students

2. Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship

• For UG, Master’s, PhD

• Covers tuition, stipend, books, medical care, flights

3. King Abdulaziz University Scholarship

• Tuition waiver

• Monthly stipend

• Accommodation

• Health insurance

• Annual flight ticket

Application timelines: June–October (varies by university).

Study in Saudi Arabia Costs for International Students

Compared with many other nations, Saudi Arabia provides affordable education. Public university tuition fees can be low, especially for scholarship awardees. Full-time programs can range between $2,500 and $8,000 per year for an international student. The tuition fees in private universities might be higher.

 Cost of Living Comparatively Cheap. The student's average monthly cost of living amounts to SAR 3,000-5,000 ($800-1,330) excluding education cost. This budget covers housing, food, transport, and necessities.

Top Universities in Saudi Arabia for International Students

Saudi Arabia hosts many top-ranked universities for international students. These universities offer degrees in science, engineering, business, and medicine. Below are some leading options:

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Research universities and your program of interest

2. Check specific admission requirements

3. Prepare translated and certified documents

4. Apply online through the university’s international portal

5. Upload IELTS/TOEFL if required

6. Track application status

7. Accept the offer and confirm enrollment

Saudi Arabia Student Visa Process

To study in Saudi Arabia, you must obtain a student (education) visa. Requirements include:

• Official university offer letter

• Valid passport

• Medical test report

• Proof of financial support

• Health insurance

• Visa application through the Saudi Embassy in your home country