The KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 offer international students the opportunity to pursue fully funded Master’s and PhD studies at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. The KAUST Fellowship covers tuition and bench fees, provides a monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and relocation support for eligible admitted students.
The 2027 admission cycle includes Master’s, MS/PhD, and PhD programmes across STEM disciplines. Applications for Spring 2027 PhD admission and Fall 2027 graduate admission have specific deadlines, making early preparation important for international applicants.
In this guide, you will find the latest KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 eligibility requirements, available programmes, funding benefits, English-language requirements, application process, deadlines, required documents, and information for Pakistani and other international students.
Quick Status — KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 |
| University | King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
| Country | Saudi Arabia |
| Location | Thuwal |
| Study Levels | Master’s, MS/PhD, PhD |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Current Status | Upcoming / 2027 Applications |
| 2027 Applications | Open in August 2026 |
| Spring 2027 | PhD only |
| Fall 2027 | MS, MS/PhD and PhD |
| Application Fee | SAR 200 |
| Tuition Support | Full tuition and bench-fee coverage |
| Monthly Stipend | US$20,000/year for MS; US$25,000–30,000/year for PhD |
| Accommodation | Included |
| Health Insurance | Included |
| Relocation Support | Included |
| GRE | Not required |
| Application Method | Online |
The KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 offer international students an opportunity to pursue fully funded graduate study at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia.
KAUST offers Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD programmes across 17 STEM disciplines. The university describes itself as a graduate research university focused on science and technology.
KAUST’s official admissions timeline confirms that applications for 2027 entry open in August 2026. Spring 2027 admission is available only to PhD applicants, while Fall 2027 admission is available for MS, MS/PhD and PhD applicants.
There is no separate application for the KAUST Fellowship. KAUST states that all admitted students automatically receive the fellowship, except students funded through specific partnership or externally sponsored programmes.
KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 Deadline
KAUST has published the admission timeline for the 2027 cycle.
The university notes that these dates are tentative and may change depending on application volume. Applicants should therefore verify the official admissions portal before submitting their applications.
Spring 2027 Admission
Spring 2027 admission is available only for PhD applicants.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | September 27, 2026 |
| Decisions Released | November 8, 2026 |
| Spring Semester Starts | January 17, 2027 |
Fall 2027 Admission
Fall 2027 admission is available for:
- Master’s
- MS/PhD
- PhD
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | September 28, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | January 3, 2027 |
| Decisions Released | February 14, 2027 |
| Fall Semester Starts | August 29, 2027 |
Which Deadline Applies to You?
If you are applying for a Master’s degree, the relevant 2027 intake is Fall 2027.
If you are applying for the MS/PhD pathway, the relevant intake is also Fall 2027.
PhD applicants have the option of applying for either Spring 2027 or Fall 2027, subject to programme availability and the applicable deadline.
What are the KAUST Graduate Scholarships?
The KAUST Graduate Scholarships are provided through the KAUST Fellowship.
Rather than applying separately for a scholarship, applicants apply for admission to a KAUST graduate programme.
KAUST states that all admitted students automatically receive the KAUST Fellowship, except students covered by specific partnership or external sponsorship arrangements.
This makes the application process different from scholarships where applicants first apply for admission and then submit a separate scholarship application.
KAUST Fellowship
The fellowship provides financial support for graduate students, including:
- Full tuition and bench-fee coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation
- Health insurance
- Relocation support
KAUST estimates the total fellowship value at approximately US$70,000–80,000 per year, depending on the student’s circumstances.
No Separate Fellowship Application
Applicants do not need to complete a separate KAUST Fellowship application.
The university states that fellowship details are included in the admission offer for students who are eligible for the fellowship.
What Does the KAUST Graduate Scholarships Cover?
The KAUST Fellowship is designed to cover the major costs associated with graduate study.
Full Tuition and Bench Fees
KAUST provides full tuition and bench-fee coverage.
The university values this component at up to US$35,000 per year.
Monthly Stipend
The fellowship includes a monthly stipend.
KAUST currently lists:
| Student | Annual Stipend |
|---|---|
| Master’s | US$20,000 |
| PhD | US$25,000–30,000 |
The PhD amount depends on qualifications and academic progress.
Accommodation
Base accommodation is included in the fellowship.
KAUST states that single students receive shared accommodation, while married students receive two-bedroom accommodation.
Students can request a housing upgrade, although an additional fee may apply.
KAUST also states that admitted students are guaranteed university-managed on-campus housing.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is included for students.
KAUST also provides health insurance for eligible dependents living on campus under KAUST sponsorship.
Relocation Support
The fellowship includes relocation support covering visa, relocation and travel costs under the university’s applicable arrangements.
KAUST states that relocation assistance covers the student’s initial move to KAUST and return home upon graduation.
Overall Fellowship Value
KAUST estimates the total value of the fellowship at approximately US$70,000–80,000 per year, depending on the student’s circumstances.
KAUST Graduate Programs 2027
KAUST offers graduate education through Master’s and PhD-level programmes.
The university currently offers programmes across 17 STEM disciplines.
Master’s Degree
KAUST’s Master’s degree is designed for students who want advanced academic and research training.
Master’s programmes are offered for Fall entry.
MS/PhD Pathway
KAUST offers an integrated MS/PhD pathway.
The pathway allows students with an undergraduate degree to pursue an integrated route toward Master’s and PhD study.
The specific availability of the MS/PhD pathway depends on the academic programme.
PhD Degree
KAUST offers research-intensive PhD programmes.
PhD applications are available for both Spring and Fall 2027, subject to programme availability.
The university states that admitted PhD students receive the fully funded KAUST Fellowship covering tuition, housing, health insurance, relocation support and other benefits.
KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 Fields of Study
KAUST offers graduate programmes across 17 STEM disciplines.
The current programme listings include fields such as:
- Applied Mathematics and Computational Science
- Applied Physics
- Bioengineering
- Bioscience
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Earth Science and Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Marine Science
- Material Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Plant Science
- Statistics
- Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Computer Science
KAUST offers a graduate programme in Computer Science.
The current programme listing shows Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD pathways for Computer Science in the Fall 2027 cycle.
Applicants interested in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, computer systems and related fields should review the current programme and faculty research information.
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering is another available graduate discipline.
The current programme listing includes MS, MS/PhD and PhD options for Fall 2027.
Statistics
Statistics is included among KAUST’s graduate disciplines.
Applicants interested in statistics, data analysis and related research should review the programme details and current faculty research areas.
Engineering and Physical Sciences
KAUST also offers programmes in several engineering and physical-science areas, including:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Applied Physics
- Chemistry
- Material Science and Engineering
- Energy Resources and Petroleum Engineering
KAUST Graduate Scholarship 2027 Eligibility
KAUST evaluates applicants based on academic qualifications and the overall strength of their applications.
Master’s Eligibility
Applicants for Master’s programmes generally need:
- A relevant Bachelor’s degree
- A degree from a recognized higher-education institution
- A competitive academic record
- Required English-language evidence or an applicable exemption
- Required application documents
PhD Eligibility
Applicants for direct PhD admission generally need:
- A relevant Master’s degree
- A degree from a recognized higher-education institution
- A competitive academic record
- Required English-language evidence or an applicable exemption
- Required application documents
Applicants interested in the integrated MS/PhD pathway can apply after an undergraduate degree, subject to the programme requirements.
GPA Requirement
KAUST’s current entry requirements state a minimum permitted GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent.
However, this minimum should not be interpreted as a typical admitted-student GPA.
KAUST reports that:
- 90% of admitted applicants typically have a GPA above 3.3
- 75% of admitted applicants typically have a GPA above 3.5
Therefore, applicants with a 3.0 GPA may satisfy the minimum requirement but should understand that admission remains highly competitive.
Age Requirement
Applicants must meet KAUST’s age requirements at the applicable stage.
Applicants should verify the requirements in the current application portal before submitting their 2027 application.
KAUST English Language Requirements
English is the language of instruction at KAUST.
Applicants generally need to provide an accepted English-language test score unless they qualify for an official exemption.
Accepted English Tests
KAUST currently accepts English-language tests including:
| Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall |
| TOEFL iBT | 81 |
| PTE Academic | 62 |
| Cambridge CAE | 176 |
| Cambridge Linguaskill | 176 |
KAUST’s detailed requirements also specify minimum component scores for several of these tests. Applicants should check the official requirements page for the complete test-specific conditions.
IELTS Exemption
Applicants may qualify for an English-test exemption if they earned a degree through in-person study at an accredited institution in certain English-speaking countries.
KAUST’s current requirements identify:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Australia
- New Zealand
as qualifying countries for this exemption under its conditions.
Distance-learning degrees and certain branch or satellite arrangements do not qualify for the exemption.
Medium of Instruction Certificate
Applicants should not assume that a Medium of Instruction certificate can replace IELTS or another accepted English test.
KAUST’s official requirements specify the accepted forms of English-language evidence and should be followed for the 2027 application.
Applying Without IELTS
Applicants may be able to submit an application before receiving an English test score.
However, applicants should review KAUST’s current requirements carefully and provide the required official score within the applicable admission process.
Is GRE Required for KAUST?
The General GRE is not compulsory for KAUST graduate admission.
Applicants may submit a GRE score if they believe it strengthens their application.
A strong application should therefore not depend solely on standardized test results.
Academic performance, relevant preparation, research experience, statement of purpose and recommendations are important parts of the admissions process.
Documents Required for KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027
Applicants should prepare their documents before the application deadline.
Official University Transcripts
Applicants must provide their academic transcripts.
Academic documents submitted to KAUST must meet the university’s formatting and language requirements.
Curriculum Vitae
Applicants should prepare an up-to-date CV covering their:
- Education
- Research experience
- Publications
- Projects
- Technical skills
- Relevant professional experience
- Academic achievements
Statement of Purpose
The Statement of Purpose is an important part of the KAUST application.
Applicants should explain their:
- Academic background
- Research interests
- Preparation for the selected field
- Academic goals
- Career objectives
- Reasons for applying to KAUST
KAUST’s current application guidance provides specific instructions for the Statement of Purpose. Applicants should follow the instructions displayed in the application system.
Recommendation Letters
Applicants must provide the contact information of three referees.
The referees are contacted directly as part of the application process.
Applicants should select referees who can provide meaningful information about their academic or research abilities.
Passport or National ID
Applicants must provide a clear copy of an accepted identification document.
International applicants should prepare a clear passport identification page.
KAUST Graduate Scholarship 2027 Application Fee
KAUST currently lists an application fee of SAR 200.
This is an important correction from older KAUST information that described applications as free.
Applicants should therefore budget for the current application fee when applying to the 2027 cycle.
How to Apply for KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027
The KAUST Fellowship does not require a separate scholarship application.
Applicants apply for admission to a KAUST graduate programme.
Step 1 — Choose Your Program
Review the available graduate programmes and select one that matches your academic background and research interests.
KAUST allows applicants to apply to one academic programme per year.
Step 2 — Check Eligibility
Review:
- Degree requirements
- GPA requirements
- English-language requirements
- Programme availability
- Supporting-document requirements
Step 3 — Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your:
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Passport or national ID
- English test score, where required
- Three referee contacts
Step 4 — Create an Application
Create your KAUST admissions account and begin the online application when the relevant 2027 application window is available.
Step 5 — Complete the Application
Enter your information accurately and upload the required documents.
Provide the contact information for your three referees.
Step 6 — Pay the Application Fee
The current KAUST application requirements list an application fee of SAR 200.
Step 7 — Submit Before the Deadline
Submit the completed application before the deadline for your selected intake.
For 2027, the published deadlines are:
- September 27, 2026 for Spring 2027 PhD admission
- January 3, 2027 for Fall 2027 MS, MS/PhD and PhD admission
Step 8 — Admissions Review
KAUST reviews the submitted application and supporting documents.
Qualified applications can proceed to faculty review.
Step 9 — Faculty Review and Interview
Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for an online interview.
The interview can cover academic background, research interests and career objectives.
Step 10 — Admission Decision
Successful applicants receive an admission offer.
For students eligible for the KAUST Fellowship, the fellowship details are provided with the offer.
Does KAUST Require a Faculty Advisor Before Applying?
No.
Applicants do not need to secure a faculty advisor before submitting their application.
KAUST states that applicants can identify faculty members whose research interests align with their goals.
Qualified applicants may subsequently be contacted by faculty members during the admissions process.
Applicants should still research faculty members and research groups before applying because doing so can help them identify programmes and research areas that match their interests.
Can You Apply to More Than One KAUST Graduate Scholarships?
KAUST states that applicants can apply to one academic programme per year.
Applicants should therefore carefully select the programme that best matches their academic background and research goals.
Submitting applications to multiple programmes can conflict with the university’s application rules.
Who Should Apply for KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027?
KAUST is particularly relevant to students seeking advanced education and research opportunities in STEM.
Computer Science and AI Students
KAUST offers a Computer Science graduate programme and research opportunities in computing-related fields.
Applicants interested in:
- Artificial intelligence
- Machine learning
- Computer science
- Data science
- Computational research
- Computer systems
should investigate the relevant KAUST programmes and faculty research groups.
Engineering Students
KAUST offers graduate programmes in several engineering disciplines.
Applicants with backgrounds in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering and related areas can explore the available programmes.
Research-Oriented Applicants
KAUST is a research-intensive university.
Applicants with research projects, publications, laboratory experience or strong technical backgrounds may be well positioned to demonstrate their preparation.
International Students
KAUST has a highly international student population.
The university reports students from more than 120 nationalities on campus.
KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 for Pakistani Students
Pakistani students can apply to KAUST graduate programmes if they meet the university’s requirements.
The application process is the same international admissions process used by other eligible applicants.
What Pakistani Applicants Should Prepare
Pakistani applicants should prepare:
- Bachelor’s degree documents for Master’s admission
- Master’s degree documents for direct PhD admission
- Official transcripts
- CV
- Statement of Purpose
- English-language test where required
- Three referees
- Passport
- Application fee
English Requirement for Pakistani Applicants
Applicants educated in Pakistan should carefully review KAUST’s English-language requirements.
A Pakistani university’s Medium of Instruction certificate should not be assumed to replace an accepted English test.
Applicants should follow the current official KAUST requirements.
KAUST Graduate Scholarships Results 2027
KAUST provides admission decisions through its admissions process.
For the 2027 cycle, the official timeline currently lists:
| Intake | Decision Date |
|---|---|
| Spring 2027 | November 8, 2026 |
| Fall 2027 | February 14, 2027 |
These dates are listed by KAUST as tentative and may change depending on application volume.
How to Check Your KAUST Application Status
Applicants should:
- Sign in to the KAUST admissions portal.
- Open their application.
- Check the current application status.
- Review messages from the Admissions Office.
- Respond promptly if additional information is requested.
Important Facts About KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027
Before applying, remember these key points:
- KAUST offers Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD programmes.
- The 2027 cycle has Spring and Fall admission options.
- Spring 2027 is for PhD applicants only.
- Fall 2027 is for MS, MS/PhD and PhD applicants.
- The KAUST Fellowship is automatically considered with admission.
- Full tuition and bench fees are covered.
- A monthly stipend is provided.
- Base accommodation is included.
- Health insurance is included.
- Relocation support is included.
- The minimum permitted GPA is 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
- KAUST reports substantially higher typical GPAs among admitted applicants.
- GRE is not compulsory.
- English-language requirements apply unless an exemption is available.
- Three referees are required.
- The current application fee is SAR 200.
- Applicants can apply to one academic programme per year.
- The 2027 dates are subject to change.
KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 Frequently Asked Questions
Is the KAUST Graduate Scholarship 2027 fully funded?
Yes.
The KAUST Fellowship provides full tuition and bench-fee coverage, a monthly stipend, base accommodation, health insurance and relocation support.
KAUST estimates the total value of the fellowship at approximately US$70,000–80,000 per year depending on the student’s circumstances.
When will KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 open?
KAUST’s official admissions timeline states that applications for 2027 entry will open in August 2026.
What is the KAUST Graduate Scholarship 2027 deadline?
For Spring 2027 PhD admission, the application deadline is September 27, 2026.
For Fall 2027 MS, MS/PhD and PhD admission, the application deadline is January 3, 2027.
Is the KAUST Fellowship a separate scholarship application?
No.
KAUST states that there is no separate application for the fellowship.
All admitted students automatically receive the KAUST Fellowship except those funded through specified partnership or external sponsorship programmes.
How much is the KAUST Master’s stipend?
KAUST currently lists a Master’s stipend worth US$20,000 per year.
How much is the KAUST PhD stipend?
KAUST currently lists a PhD stipend of US$25,000–30,000 per year, depending on qualifications and academic progress.
Does KAUST cover tuition?
Yes.
The KAUST Fellowship provides full tuition and bench-fee coverage, valued at up to US$35,000 per year.
Does KAUST provide accommodation?
Yes.
Base accommodation is included in the KAUST Fellowship.
Does KAUST provide health insurance?
Yes.
Health insurance is included for students under the fellowship arrangements.
Does KAUST provide relocation support?
Yes.
The fellowship includes relocation support, including applicable visa, relocation and travel costs.
Is IELTS required for KAUST?
English-language proficiency is generally required.
KAUST accepts several approved English-language tests and provides specific exemptions for eligible applicants.
Can I apply without IELTS?
Applicants may submit an application without an English test score, but they must satisfy KAUST’s English-language requirement during the admissions process if they do not qualify for an exemption.
Applicants should check the current requirements before submitting their application.
Does KAUST accept a Medium of Instruction certificate?
Applicants should follow KAUST’s official English-language requirements rather than assuming an MOI certificate is sufficient.
Is GRE required for KAUST?
No.
The General GRE is not compulsory.
What is the minimum GPA for KAUST?
The minimum permitted GPA is 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
However, KAUST reports that 90% of admitted applicants typically have GPAs above 3.3 and 75% above 3.5.
Can I apply with a 3.0 GPA?
A 3.0 GPA meets the stated minimum threshold.
However, it does not mean that admission is likely. KAUST is competitive, and most admitted applicants have higher GPAs.
Do I need a Master’s degree for KAUST?
You generally need a relevant Bachelor’s degree for Master’s admission.
Direct PhD admission normally requires a relevant Master’s degree.
The integrated MS/PhD pathway can be entered after an undergraduate degree, subject to programme requirements.
Do I need a supervisor before applying?
No.
KAUST does not require applicants to secure a faculty advisor before submitting an application.
How many referees are required?
Three referees are required.
Applicants provide their contact information as part of the application.
Is there an application fee?
Yes.
The current KAUST application requirements list a fee of SAR 200.
Can international students apply?
Yes.
KAUST accepts international applicants to its graduate programmes.
Can Pakistani students apply?
Yes.
Pakistani applicants can apply as international students if they meet the relevant academic and application requirements.
Can I apply to multiple KAUST programmes?
No.
KAUST states that applicants can apply to one academic programme per year.
When will Fall 2027 classes begin?
The official KAUST timeline lists August 29, 2027 as the Fall 2027 semester start date.
When will Spring 2027 classes begin?
The official timeline lists January 17, 2027 as the Spring 2027 semester start date.
Final Takeaway
The KAUST Graduate Scholarships 2027 are among the most substantial fully funded graduate opportunities available to international STEM students.
KAUST offers Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD programmes across 17 STEM disciplines, including Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Statistics, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Chemistry and several other research fields.
The KAUST Fellowship provides full tuition and bench-fee coverage, a monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support. KAUST estimates the overall value of the fellowship at approximately US$70,000–80,000 per year, depending on the student’s circumstances.
The 2027 admission cycle has two main entry periods.
Spring 2027 is available only to PhD applicants, with a current deadline of September 27, 2026.
Fall 2027 is available for Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD applicants, with a current deadline of January 3, 2027. KAUST lists these dates as tentative and advises applicants to monitor the official admissions timeline.
Applicants should not confuse the minimum GPA of 3.0 with a competitive admission profile. KAUST reports that the majority of admitted applicants have higher GPAs, making academic strength and the overall application important.
There is no separate KAUST Fellowship application. Applicants apply for admission to a graduate programme, and eligible admitted students automatically receive the fellowship.
Prospective applicants should begin preparing their transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, English-language test, passport and referee information before the relevant deadline.
Official Sources
KAUST Admissions
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa
The official admissions website provides the application portal, programme information and admissions guidance.
KAUST Admission Timeline
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/admission-timelines
Use this page to verify the latest 2027 opening dates, deadlines, decision dates and semester start dates.
KAUST Fees and Funding
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/fees-funding
This is the official source for tuition coverage, stipends, accommodation, health insurance and relocation support.
KAUST Entry Requirements
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply/entry-requirements
This page provides the current academic, document and English-language requirements.
KAUST Graduate Programs
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/study
The official programme directory lists the available Master’s, MS/PhD and PhD disciplines.
KAUST Application Process
https://admissions.kaust.edu.sa/how-to-apply
The official application page explains how admission and the KAUST Fellowship are connected.
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