The KAUST Fully Funded Graduate Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications from outstanding students worldwide seeking advanced study in science, engineering, and technology. Offered by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia, this prestigious fellowship provides comprehensive financial support for both Master’s and PhD programmes.
KAUST is internationally recognised for its cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary innovation, and state-of-the-art facilities. Through the KAUST Fellowship, admitted students receive full financial backing, allowing them to focus entirely on research, academic excellence, and technological advancement without financial constraints.
Fellowship Details
The KAUST Fellowship is automatically awarded to all admitted graduate students. The university offers research-intensive Master’s and Doctoral programmes across a broad range of disciplines, including:
Applied Mathematics and Computational Science
Bioscience and Bioengineering
Computer Science
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Environmental Science and Engineering
Materials Science and Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Statistics and Data Science
Chemical Engineering
Programmes are designed to promote interdisciplinary research and collaboration with leading global institutions. Students work closely with internationally renowned faculty and gain access to world-class laboratories and research centres within a modern residential campus environment.
Funding Benefits
The KAUST Fellowship provides full financial support for the entire duration of study. The funding package includes:
Full tuition fee coverage for the complete graduate programme
Annual living allowance ranging between USD 20,000 and USD 30,000, depending on academic performance and qualifications
On-campus housing accommodation
Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
Relocation allowance and travel support to Saudi Arabia
Access to advanced research laboratories, innovation hubs, and high-performance computing facilities
This generous funding structure ensures that students can concentrate on research, academic growth, and innovation without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria
KAUST welcomes applications from highly motivated and academically accomplished students from all countries. To be eligible for the 2026 intake, applicants must:
Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree for admission into a Master’s programme
Hold a relevant master’s degree for admission into a PhD programme
Submit official academic transcripts and graduation certificates from all institutions attended
Provide three letters of recommendation from academic referees or research supervisors
Submit an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Demonstrate English language proficiency
English language requirements include:
Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 81
Minimum IELTS score of 6.5
Applicants who have earned a degree from institutions in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand may qualify for an English test exemption.
The GRE is not mandatory but is strongly recommended to strengthen the overall academic profile of applicants, particularly for competitive programmes.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
Completed online application form through the KAUST admissions portal
Official academic transcripts and degree certificates
Three confidential recommendation letters
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
English language test results (if required)
Statement of purpose outlining research interests and academic goals
All documents must be submitted according to KAUST’s official admissions guidelines.
Application Deadline
Applications for the KAUST Fellowship 2026 are currently open as part of the official graduate admissions cycle. While specific programme deadlines may vary, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their complete applications as early as possible within the 2026 admissions window to maximise consideration for admission and fellowship funding.
Prospective students should consult the official KAUST admissions portal for programme-specific deadlines and requirements.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply directly through the official KAUST online application system. Applicants should:
Apply: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/study/applying-to-kaust
Select their desired Master’s or PhD programme
Upload all required academic and supporting documents
Ensure recommendation letters are submitted by referees before the deadline
Complete and submit the application within the official admissions timeline
Early preparation is advised to allow sufficient time for document collection, test scores, and referee submissions. Successful applicants will receive full fellowship support upon admission.
