The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) is a fully funded, unique training program offering international undergraduate and postgraduate students the chance to conduct innovative, faculty-mentored research in Saudi Arabia. The VSRP is open all year and offers research projects across the breadth of scientific and engineering fields. This landmark internship is designed for driven students with strong academic performance (GPA 3.5/4 or equivalent) and provides comprehensive financial support, including a generous monthly stipend of $1,000, along with full coverage for travel, accommodation, and health insurance. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute ideas in an international research community.
KAUST VSRP Fully Funded Internship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
| Host Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Program Level | Research Internship / Training (3–6 months) |
| Field of Study | Diverse Scientific and Engineering Disciplines |
| Funding | Full Sponsorship ($1,000 Monthly Stipend + Travel/Accommodation) |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (International Students) |
| Key Criteria | Undergraduate (3rd year+) or Master’s Student, GPA 3.5/4 (ECTS B), Strong English Skills |
| Application Deadline | Open All Year (Continuous Application) |
KAUST VSRP Fully Funded Internship Details
The KAUST VSRP aims to attract talented students globally, allowing them to undertake research ranging across diverse disciplines and programs under the guidance of KAUST faculty mentors. The program’s length ranges anywhere between 3 to 6 months, determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the complexity and scope of the selected research project.
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This hands-on experience provides students with unparalleled access to core laboratories and major research and community facilities within KAUST’s world-class campus. Students are encouraged to pursue their research questions with insatiable curiosity, preparing them for future academic and professional careers in science and engineering.
Benefits and Specific Fellowship Award Tiers
The KAUST VSRP is fully sponsored, covering all essential costs associated with the international research placement and providing a significant stipend.
Tier 1: Monthly Stipend and Accommodation
This tier ensures that the scholar’s living and daily expenses are comfortably covered throughout the internship duration.
- Value: USD 1000 Monthly Stipend.
- Criteria: Provided to all successful VSRP participants for living expenses.
- Value: Private Bedroom/Bathroom accommodation is provided on the KAUST campus.
- Criteria: Accommodation is fully covered by KAUST.
Tier 2: Mobility, Health, and Research Access Support
This category covers the essential logistical and health costs associated with relocating to Saudi Arabia and accessing research resources.
- Coverage of Visa and Airfare Fees for travel to and from the KAUST campus.
- Health Insurance is covered for the duration of the program.
- Access to Core laboratories and major research facilities for project execution.
Tier 3: Community and Professional Development
These benefits enhance the overall experience, providing networking and cultural opportunities.
- Social And Cultural Activities are organized to integrate students into the KAUST community.
- Mentorship under experienced KAUST faculty across diverse scientific and engineering disciplines.
- Opportunity to gain unparalleled international research experience in a world-class environment.
Eligibility Requirements for KAUST VSRP Internship
The internship targets high-achieving undergraduate and Master’s students early in their research careers.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must be Undergraduate students in 3rd year or above or Master’s Students.
- Must have a GPA 3.5/4 or 14/20 (ECTS B) equivalent.
- Must have Strong verbal and written English Skills.
- Study Status: Current PhD candidates, KAUST students, or KAUST alumni are ineligible to apply.
- Visa Status: Must possess a Valid Passport for travel.
- Program Admission: Candidates must apply for a specific VSRP research program advertised on the website.
Required Documents for King Abdullah University Internship
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents:
- Official Transcript(s) in English from current and previous institutions.
- Letter of Recommendation (at least one).
- Valid Passport.
- Statement of purpose (detailing research interests).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
How to Apply for King Abdullah University Internship (Step by Step)
The application process is handled through an online portal and involves an interview stage before final selection.
- Visit Application Webpage: Click the button below to visit the KAUST internship application webpage.
- Select Research Program: Browse and select your desired internship research program from the available listings. Read the details and ensure you meet the specific requirements for that project.
- Submit Online Application: Apply as appropriate and upload all required documents (Transcripts, CV, Passport, Statement of Purpose, Recommendation Letter) via the online portal.
- Await Interview and Acceptance: Once submitted, the application will be reviewed. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted by the faculty mentor for a ZOOM interview to discuss their research background, followed by a potential second interview with the Office of Admissions. Upon approval, an email acceptance letter will be sent, and a travel advisor will assist with relocation.
Application Deadline: Open All Year
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the KAUST VSRP Internship fully funded for international students?
Yes, the KAUST VSRP is fully funded (Full Sponsorship), covering tuition, accommodation, airfare, visa fees, health insurance, and a monthly stipend.
2. What is the value of the monthly stipend provided to interns?
Interns receive a generous USD 1000 Monthly Stipend to cover their living expenses during the program.
3. Who is eligible to apply for the VSRP program?
The program is open to Undergraduate students in their 3rd year or above and Master’s Students from all countries, provided they meet the minimum GPA requirement.
4. What is the minimum required academic performance (GPA) for the internship?
Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 or its equivalent (e.g., 14/20, or ECTS Grade B).
5. What is the duration of the KAUST VSRP internship?
The length of the program ranges between 3- to 6-months, and the specific duration is determined on a case-by-case basis depending on the research project.
6. Are PhD students and KAUST alumni eligible to apply?
No, current PhD candidates, KAUST students, or KAUST alumni are ineligible to apply for the Visiting Student Research Program.
7. Which key documents are mandatory for the application?
Mandatory documents include Official Transcripts, a Letter of Recommendation, a Valid Passport, a Statement of Purpose, and a Curriculum Vitae (CV).
8. Is the application deadline fixed, or is the program continuous?
The VSRP has a rolling admission and the application is Open All Year, allowing candidates to apply whenever they find a suitable research project.
9. What is the application procedure after the documents are submitted?
After submission, the application is reviewed, and selected candidates may undergo a ZOOM interview with the faculty mentor, followed by a potential interview with the Office of Admissions.
10. Does the scholarship cover the cost of travel and visa fees?
Yes, the internship includes coverage for Visa And Airfare Fees (round-trip) to facilitate the intern’s relocation to the KAUST campus in Saudi Arabia.
