KAUST Graduate Fellowship 2027

Overview

KAUST is a private graduate-only research university in Saudi Arabia, focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Every admitted student receives full funding: there is no tuition cost, and admission and the scholarship are decided together. Open to applicants of any nationality. KAUST runs Masters, Masters and PhD (combined), and PhD programmes in computer science, engineering, biology, mathematics, chemistry, earth sciences, and physical sciences. The 2027 Fall intake closes 17 January 2027.

Benefits

• Full tuition for the duration of the programme.
• Monthly living stipend (USD 20,000 to USD 30,000 per year depending on Masters or PhD and dependants).
• On-campus housing for the student, plus subsidised family housing if you bring dependants.
• Medical and dental insurance for the student and immediate family.
• Relocation support from your home country to the KAUST campus on the Red Sea.
• Conference and research travel allowance.

Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree for Masters applicants; Bachelor’s or Masters for PhD applicants.
• Strong academic record (top-decile preferred).
• English proficient (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79+, native speakers exempt).
• A clear research interest aligned with at least one KAUST faculty member’s work.
• Open to applicants of any nationality.
• Cannot already hold a degree from KAUST.

How to apply

1. Browse the KAUST admissions site at the source link to identify your target programme and 2 to 3 faculty members whose work matches your interests.
2. Complete the online application: academic transcripts, English test, three references, statement of purpose, research statement, and a list of faculty whose labs you would like to join.
3. Submit GRE if your programme requires it (most science programmes accept GRE as optional; engineering and computer science typically do not require it).
4. Submit before 17 January 2027.
5. KAUST runs an active matching process between applicants and faculty. Interviews happen in February and March 2027. Final decisions and funding offers are released in April or May for September 2027 entry.