KAUST Postgraduate Scholarship Opportunities 2025/2026 (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) postgraduate programs, offering fully-funded opportunities for high-achieving students in 17 STEM disciplines. With deadlines for Spring 2026 (October 1, 2025) and Fall 2026 (up to April 11, 2026), these programs are open to international applicants with a relevant bachelor’s degree for M.S. programs or a master’s degree for Ph.D. programs. The KAUST Fellowship covers full tuition, a monthly stipend, housing, health insurance, and relocation costs, with no application fee required. Check more MS and PhD positions

Key Details

  • Fields of Study: 17 STEM disciplines, including Applied Mathematics, Bioengineering, Computer Science, and more.
  • Programs Offered: M.S., Ph.D., and integrated M.S./Ph.D. pathways.
  • Application Fee: None.
  • Nationality: Open to all

Study Options

  • Master’s Degree (Typically 1.5–2 years).
  • Ph.D. Degree (Typically 3–4 years).
  • Master’s/Ph.D. Pathway

Available Programs

KAUST offers M.S., Ph.D., and integrated M.S./Ph.D. programs in the following disciplines:

  • 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

Also check: Biozentrum PhD Fellowships

Minimum Eligibility

  • M.S. Programs: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant STEM field from a recognized institution.
  • Ph.D. Programs: Master’s degree in a relevant STEM field
  • Age: At least 18 years old at enrollment.
  • GPA: Minimum 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
  • English Proficiency: Required unless degree earned in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand. Accepted tests:
    • IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 per section).
    • TOEFL iBT: 79 overall (minimum 17 per section; KAUST code: 4107).
    • PTE Academic: 62 overall (minimum 59 per section).
    • Cambridge English (CAE): 176 overall (minimum 169 per section).
    • Linguaskill: 176 overall (minimum 169 per section).
    • Scores valid for 2 years from test date.

Check this: The Vice-Chancellor’s PhD Scholarships at University of West London

Application Materials

  • Official Transcripts: From all post-secondary institutions, including grading scale and English translation if needed.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include personal details, education, qualifications, work experience, research/publications, and extracurricular interests.
  • Statement of Purpose: ~750 words detailing past work, preparation, interests, academic plans, and career goals.
  • Three Referees: Contact details of professors/advisors familiar with your work (KAUST will request letters).
  • Passport/National ID: Clear copy of the identification page.
  • English Test Score: If applicable (submit later if awaiting results; contact [email protected]).

Note: Partial transcripts are accepted if final transcripts are unavailable by the deadline, but official transcripts must be submitted before enrollment.

Also check: Charles Darwin University RTP Scholarships For MS and PhD

Application Process

The KAUST admission process ensures a thorough evaluation of candidates’ potential:

  1. Submit Application: Apply via the KAUST portal before deadlines.
  2. Admission Review: Admissions team verifies documents; applicants may be contacted to resolve issues.
  3. Faculty Review: A committee ranks applications and shortlists candidates for interviews.
  4. Academic Interview/Test: Online interview with faculty to discuss background and goals.
  5. Decision: Email notification by the round’s deadline. Accepted students must respond promptly to secure their place.

Study in South Korea: CBNU G-Cruit Scholarship

How to Apply?

Key Admission Dates (2025–2026)

Spring 2026 (M.S./Ph.D. and Ph.D. only)

  • Applications Open: August 15, 2025
  • Applications Close: October 1, 2025
  • Semester Starts: January 25, 2026

Fall 2026 (M.S., M.S./Ph.D., Ph.D.)

ActivityRound 1Round 2Round 3
Applications OpenAugust 15, 2025August 15, 2025August 15, 2025
Applications CloseOctober 1, 2025January 17, 2026April 11, 2026
Semester StartsAugust 30, 2026August 30, 2026August 30, 2026

Tip: Apply by Round 2 for the best chance of admission, as programs may fill after Round 3.

Study in JapanOIST Fully Funded PhD Program 2025/2026

KAUST Fellowship

All admitted students automatically receive the KAUST Fellowship, covering:

  • Tuition and Fees: Up to $35,000/year.
  • Monthly Stipend: $20,000/year (M.S.) or $25,000–$30,000/year (Ph.D.).
  • On-Campus Housing: ~$7,000/year, including utilities.
  • Health Insurance: ~$1,450/year.
  • Relocation Support: Covers visa, travel, and initial move (return travel upon graduation).

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Dr Engr Muhammad Umar

As the founder of Fellowships Guide, my name is Dr. Muhammad Umar. I completed my higher education from GIK Institute. I am an alumnus of the TWAS-TUBITAK, Turkiye and have participated in many international conferences. I have also been part of various international academic and research programs. Since 2017, I have explored and benefited from multiple fully funded opportunities. Based on my journey, I launched Fellowships Guide to help students access scholarships, fellowships, and exchange programs worldwide. I actively mentor those passionate about studying abroad and professional development. Read our Disclaimer Policy. Read About Us.

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