King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh has started a new program linked to Saudi Vision 2030. This program aims to bring top graduate students from Saudi Arabia and other countries to study there. The KSU Board of Directors agreed to this plan. It offers full funding for PhD studies in many subjects. Applications for the King Saud University Initiative Scholarship 2025 are now available. This program gives students a chance to boost higher education and research skills. KSU is the first top university in Saudi Arabia. It started in 1957. The university now invites students to join its academic community. Studies can start in Fall 2025 (August) or Winter 2026 (January). There is no cost to apply.
Key Points:
- Saudi Vision 2030 Connection: Helps grow higher education and research.
- Who Can Apply: Skilled students from Saudi Arabia and worldwide.
- Scholarship Perks: Fully paid PhD programs that cover all costs and no application fee is needed.
- Many Fields: PhD options are available in lots of study areas.
- Program Start: Fall 2025 (August) or Winter 2026 (January).
- University Reputation: King Saud University opened in 1957 and is a leading Saudi university.
King Saud University Initiative Scholarship Summary
| Study In | Saudi Arabia |
| Available For | Internationals |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Degree Level | PhD |
| Last Apply date | May 15, 2025 |
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Scholarship Benefits
Eligible full-time students get full support for three years of their PhD program.
- Academic Funding
- Full tuition fees paid for all study years.
- A monthly living stipend of $54000 (around $14400 USD per year) is provided to help with daily costs.
- Accommodation
- Free on-campus housing for scholars to help them focus on studies.
- Health and Wellness
- Full medical care at university hospitals for student health.
- Relocation and Jobs
- Help with moving to Riyadh for students from other areas.
- Part-time work may be allowed during studies and graduates can work in Saudi Arabia for one year after finishing.
Main Goal of this Initiative
General
- Bring top students from Saudi Arabia and worldwide to join King Saud University.
- Add cultural mix and idea sharing to the learning space.
- Make PhD students at the university stronger in quality.
Specific
- Push new teaching methods and creative progress in academics.
- Get more research done by having local and international students help meet the university’s goals.
- Build a strong research culture that supports teamwork across fields and links with global universities.
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Eligibility Criteria
To keep high academic standards the initiative has general eligibility criteria set by the Deanship of Graduate Studies. Some programs might have extra requirements based on department needs.
- Academic Qualification: Must have a Master’s degree from an approved institution.
- Interview Process: A virtual or in-person interview might be part of the process.
- Standardized Testing: The GRE general test is encouraged but not mandatory unless specified by the selected program.
- English Proficiency: Only official TOEFL IELTS or STEP scores are valid:
- TOEFL (minimum score: 61 on the Internet-Based Test)
- STEP (minimum score: 85)
- IELTS (minimum score: 6)
- A waiver is possible if the applicant earned a Master’s degree from an accredited institution in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand
Available Study Fields at KSU
- Engineering
- Health and Medical Sciences
- Basic and Applied Sciences
- Computer Sciences
Required Documents
- Two recommendation letters
- A CV
- Proof of recent publication or patent if possible
- A personal statement explaining academic and career goals
Application Process for the King Saud University Initiative Scholarship 2025
The application process for the KSU Scholarship is online. To apply use the initiative’s online application platform. Click on the Apply Online option to see full details and start the registration process. Below is the link to the official website.
Apply Now For The King Saud University Initiative Scholarship 2025