The prestigious King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia has officially opened applications for its fully funded graduate programs for the 2027 academic year. Known as the KAUST Fellowship, this world-class scholarship is available to international applicants, offering a life-changing opportunity to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees without any financial burden.
The KAUST Fellowship is distinctively generous. By removing tuition fees and living expenses, it empowers students across 17 STEM disciplines—ranging from Artificial Intelligence and Bioscience to Marine Science and Mechanical Engineering—to dedicate their absolute focus to pioneering research by the Red Sea.
⚡ KAUST Fellowship Coverage & Financial Benefits
| Benefit Category | Coverage Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | 100% Full Tuition Support (Valued at up to $35,000/year) |
| Annual Living Stipend | MS: $20,000/year | PhD: $25,000 to $30,000/year |
| Accommodation | Free Housing (Shared for singles, 2-bedroom for married couples) |
| Health & Wellness | Comprehensive Medical/Dental Insurance (Includes eligible dependents) |
| Travel & Relocation | Initial visa, airfare to Saudi Arabia, and return travel after graduation |
Available Degree Paths & Duration
KAUST does not offer undergraduate degrees. The university operates strictly at the graduate and postdoctoral levels. The scholarship applies to the following tracks:
- Master of Science (MS): Typically completed in 1.5 years (coursework only) or 2 years (with thesis).
- PhD Program: Usually completed in 4 years. Requires a relevant master's degree.
- Combined MS/PhD: Designed for exceptional bachelor's graduates, allowing them to progress directly to a PhD. Takes around 5.5 to 6 years.
Eligibility and Admission Criteria
KAUST is highly competitive. While the minimum CGPA requirement is 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent), the admissions committee notes that the vast majority of successfully admitted scholars hold significantly higher academic averages.
Standardized Testing:
- English Proficiency: Valid IELTS (6.5 overall, 6.0 minimum in all bands) or TOEFL scores are required. Exemptions apply for students who completed degrees in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
- GRE: Taking the GRE is officially optional, but strong quantitative scores will significantly enhance an application.
Important Note: You do not need to secure a faculty advisor before applying, but MS/PhD and PhD applicants are strongly encouraged to identify faculty members whose research aligns with their interests within the application form.
Application Deadlines & Intake Cycles
KAUST admits students in two major cycles for 2027. Note the strict cut-off dates:
- January 2027 Intake (PhD Only): The application deadline is rapidly approaching on September 27, 2026.
- August 2027 Intake (MS & PhD): The application portal for the Fall intake opens on September 28, 2026, and will officially close on January 3, 2027.
How to Apply (Roadmap)
Applying for the KAUST Fellowship is a streamlined, single-step process. There is no separate application for the scholarship—all admitted students who meet the criteria are automatically awarded the KAUST Fellowship.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather official university transcripts, a professional CV, a 750-word Statement of Purpose, and a scanned copy of your passport.
- Select References: Prepare the contact information for three academic or professional referees who can attest to your research capabilities.
- Submit Online: Navigate to the KAUST Admissions Portal, select your target program, upload all required documents, and submit before the relevant deadline.
News coverage synthesized from official university disclosures and ProPakistani Education reporting.
Source: ProPakistani