The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Fellowship is an exclusive, fully funded graduate research opportunity for all admitted Masters and PhD students. Dedicated to solving global scientific and technological challenges, the fellowship provides comprehensive financial support including full tuition coverage, on-campus housing, medical insurance, relocation support, and a significant living allowance of up to $30,000 annually. Admission requires a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant science or engineering field, a minimum English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79), and submission of transcripts, a CV, statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation by the deadline of January 17, 2026.
King Abdullah University (KAUST) Fellowship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Study Abroad | Study in Asia (Red Sea Coast) |
| Category | Postgraduate Fellowships | Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Global Eligibility) |
| Reward | Full Tuition + Housing + $30,000 Annual Stipend + Relocation |
| Key Criteria | Science/Engineering Degree, IELTS 6.5/TOEFL 79, Strong Research Potential |
| Application Deadline | January 17, 2026 |
The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia is an international, graduate-level research university committed to addressing some of the world’s most pressing scientific and technological challenges. Located on the shores of the Red Sea, KAUST brings together world-class faculty and the best minds from over 120 nationalities to advance research in areas ranging from environmental conservation to global water and food supply.
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The KAUST Fellowship is the official designation for the university’s full funding program. It represents a total commitment to its students, providing every admitted Master’s, Doctoral, and Postgraduate Diploma student with comprehensive financial support. This approach ensures that highly talented individuals, regardless of nationality or financial background, can dedicate themselves completely to groundbreaking research without the burden of tuition or living costs.
By enrolling at KAUST, students immediately become part of a global innovation catalyst. The research conducted here leads to novel patents, enterprising startups, and key collaborations with global industries. The fellowship not only offers financial security but also provides the professional environment necessary to solve the problems of the future, today.
Scholarship Details
The KAUST Fellowship is automatically awarded to all admitted students across its graduate research programs, which include the Master of Science (M.S.), the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and the Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip). The fellowship is a non-competitive grant tied directly to admission, simplifying the application process for students from All Countries. The focus is on recruiting top talent in science, engineering, and related quantitative disciplines.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the KAUST Admission
The KAUST Fellowship package is one of the most generous fully funded awards globally, providing holistic support for academic and personal life.
Tier 1: Financial Reward (Full Funding) (Up to $30,000 Annual Stipend)
This tier covers all essential financial obligations related to study and living.
- Recipients are granted Full Free Tuition Support, eliminating all institutional costs of graduate education.
- A substantial Monthly Living Allowance is provided, ranging from $20,000 to $30,000 annually. The specific amount depends on the student’s qualifications, prior degree, and academic progression within the university.
Tier 2: Comprehensive Life Support
This mid-level benefit secures the recipient’s living arrangements and health.
- On-Campus Housing: Students receive housing in university facilities located on the Red Sea campus.
- Medical and Dental Coverage: Full medical and dental coverage is provided for the student while they are enrolled at KAUST.
Tier 3: Logistic and Career Support
This final tier covers logistical costs associated with moving and beginning study.
- Relocation Support: Financial assistance is provided to cover travel and relocation expenses incurred when moving to Saudi Arabia to begin the program.
- Research Environment: Access to state-of-the-art research centers and collaboration opportunities with world-class faculty.
Eligibility Requirements of KAUST Scholarship (King Abdullah University)
Admission to KAUST and automatic qualification for the Fellowship require applicants to meet the following criteria:
- Academic/Discipline: Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for M.S. or PGDip) or an undergraduate/Master’s degree (for Ph.D.) in a relevant science or engineering field, such as Engineering, Mathematics, or the Physical, Chemical, and Biological Sciences.
- Language Proficiency: All applicants must demonstrate a minimum English proficiency with an official score of IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79 (Academic).
- Degree Completion: The Bachelor’s degree must be from a higher education institution recognized by KAUST.
- Testing: Submission of official GRE scores is encouraged as it will enhance the application, though it is not compulsory.
How to Apply for King Abdullah University KAUST Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application for the KAUST Fellowship is integrated with the admission process for the graduate programs.
- Program Application: Click the provided link to visit the official KAUST Scholarship application page and apply for admission to your chosen postgraduate Master’s or Ph.D. degree.
- Document Submission: Complete the online application form and upload all required documents (listed below), ensuring all details are accurate.
- Automatic Evaluation: Candidates who are admitted to an M.S. or Ph.D. program are automatically considered and awarded the KAUST Fellowship.
- Notification of Award: Successful candidates will be officially notified of their admission and the granting of the KAUST Fellowship by email after the application review process.
Application Deadline: January 17, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the KAUST Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the KAUST Fellowship is fully funded. It covers 100% of tuition, housing, medical coverage, relocation costs, and provides a monthly living stipend.
2. How much is the annual living allowance provided by the fellowship?
The monthly living allowance ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 annually, with the specific amount depending on the student’s qualifications and academic progress.
3. Do I have to apply separately for the KAUST Scholarship?
No. Every student who is admitted into a KAUST Master’s or Ph.D. program is automatically awarded the KAUST Fellowship.
4. What is the minimum English language score required for admission?
Applicants must provide an official score of at least IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 79 (Academic).
5. Is the GRE score mandatory to apply to KAUST?
No, the GRE score is not compulsory, but submitting official scores is highly encouraged as it can strengthen the overall application.
6. What degree levels are covered by the KAUST Fellowship?
The fellowship covers students admitted to the Master of Science (M.S.), Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), and Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) programs.
7. What type of background is required for admission?
Applicants need an undergraduate or Master’s degree in a relevant area of science or engineering, such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, or Engineering.
8. What application documents are required for submission?
Required documents include official university transcripts, a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a Statement of Purpose, three letters of recommendation, and official English proficiency test scores.
9. Does the fellowship cover travel costs for international students?
Yes, the KAUST Fellowship includes Relocation Support, which provides financial assistance to cover the cost of moving to the Saudi Arabia campus.
10. When is the final deadline to submit the application?
The deadline for applications to be considered for the KAUST Fellowship and admission for the 2026 intake is January 17, 2026.
