The King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 for Distinguished Graduate Students is a prestigious program designed to attract outstanding Ph.D. candidates from around the world. This initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to enhance scientific research, innovation, and higher education in key fields.
With a strong commitment to academic excellence, KSU offers fully funded scholarships, cutting-edge research opportunities, and access to world-class faculty. Selected candidates will benefit from full financial support, advanced research facilities, and professional development opportunities in one of the leading universities in the Middle East.
In this post, we will provide a detailed breakdown of the scholarship, including eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, and the step-by-step application process.
Contents
- 1 King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 Summary
- 2 King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 Details
- 3 Eligibility Criteria for the King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026
- 4 Benefits
- 5 Required Documents
- 6 How to Apply for the King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 (Step by Step)
- 7 Decision Timeline
- 8 Deadline
- 9 Receive the Latest Scholarship Updates through our Social Media Channels:
King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 Summary
- Host Country: Saudi Arabia
- Study Abroad: Study in Asia
- Host Institution: King Saud University (KSU)
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships| PhD Scholarships
- Duration: 3 Years
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Reward: Fully tuition | Monthly living allowance totaling 54,000 SAR ($14,400)
- Language Requirements: English proficiency required
- Application Deadline: May 15th, 2025
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King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 Details
Scope of the Initiative
The King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 aims to attract highly talented and exceptional students from both Saudi Arabia and around the world to pursue a Ph.D. degree in selected academic programs. This initiative is part of KSU’s transformation into a world-class university, ensuring that top scholars contribute to groundbreaking research and academic excellence.
Objectives of the Initiative
The program is designed to bring in outstanding local and international Ph.D. students to enhance research productivity, academic development, and innovation at KSU. The key objectives include:
- Encouraging local and international students to contribute to research efforts aligned with KSU’s academic priorities.
- Strengthening academic development and innovation by integrating top talent into the university.
- Promoting a dynamic research environment that fosters excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration, both within KSU and through partnerships with leading universities worldwide.
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Eligibility Criteria for the King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026
To apply, candidates must meet the general requirements set by the Deanship of Graduate Studies at King Saud University (KSU). Additional specific requirements may apply based on the selected Ph.D. program.
General Requirements:
- A Master’s degree from an accredited institution.
- English proficiency test scores: Only official TOEFL, IELTS, and STEP scores are accepted.
- Minimum scores required:
- TOEFL iBT: 61
- IELTS: 6.0
- STEP: 85
- Applicants who completed a Master’s degree from accredited institutions in the U.S., Canada, the UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand may receive a waiver.
- KSU admissions codes:
- IELTS: 147080
- TOEFL: 7498
- Minimum scores required:
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with evidence of recent publications or patents (if available).
- Statement of purpose outlining research interests and academic goals.
- GRE General Test is preferable but not mandatory unless required by the selected Ph.D. program.
- A personal interview (virtual or in-person) may be required.
Eligible Course Programs
- Computer Sciences
- Engineering
- Basic and Applied Sciences
- Health and Medical Sciences
Benefits
All eligible full-time students accepted into the Deanship of Graduate Studies Initiative will receive comprehensive financial and academic support for the duration of their Ph.D. studies (up to three years). The benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire Ph.D. program.
- Monthly living allowance totaling 54,000 SAR ($14,400) annually.
- On-campus housing for students.
- Comprehensive health insurance at university hospitals.
- Relocation support for students coming from outside Riyadh.
- Part-time work opportunities may be available.
- Eligibility to work in Saudi Arabia for up to one year after graduation.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed Application Form
- Official Transcripts: From all previously attended institutions.
- English Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP results.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from academic or professional referees.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic achievements, research experience, and publications.
- Statement of Purpose: A concise essay outlining research interests and career goals.
- GRE Scores: If required by the chosen program.
How to Apply for the King Saud University Initiative 2025/2026 (Step by Step)
- Visit the Official Website: Access the initiative’s page
- Review Program Details: Explore the available Ph.D. programs and their specific requirements.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather all required documents as listed above.
- Complete the Online Application: Fill out and submit the application form through the KSU application portal.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary documents as part of the application process.
- Await Communication: After submission, monitor your email for any updates or requests for interviews.
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Decision Timeline
Decisions by the Initiative Steering Committee will be tentatively made starting from late June 2025. Notified students will be able to start as early as the Fall semester (August 2025) or the Winter semester (January 2026).
Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is May 15, 2025.
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