King Saud University Initiative Scholarship: Call for Application

King Saud University invites applications from distinguished graduate students from Saudi Arabia and around the world to study at King Saud University (KSU), Riyadh, using the University Initiative Scholarship Program for Phd students.

The King Saud University Initiative Scholarship Program is built on the vision of His Excellency the Rector of King Saud University, Prof. Badran Al-Omar. The program seeks to create a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive academic community that fosters excellence, innovation, and creativity. By providing scholarships to outstanding students from around the world, the program aims to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and competencies required to succeed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.

Key Features of King Saud University Initiative Scholarship

The King Saud University Initiative Scholarship Program offers a range of benefits and opportunities to successful applicants. Some of the key features of the program include:

• Full Scholarship: The program offers a full scholarship that covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other benefits.
• Research Opportunities: Scholars have access to cutting-edge research facilities and opportunities to work with renowned faculty members.
• Cultural Exchange: The program provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and networking with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Leadership Development: Scholars participate in leadership development programs and activities that enhance their skills and competencies.
• Career Opportunities: The program provides access to career opportunities and job placements in leading organizations.

Scholarship Coverage

The scholarship in its first phase is only for pursuing a PhD degree. The scholarship program aims to attract highly talented and distinguished students, locally and globally, who have exceptional academic and research achievements, to pursue a Ph.D. degree in selected programs offered by KSU.

Scholarship Benefits

All eligible full-time students will be granted the following benefits under the Initiative, which provides support throughout their PhD studies (for 3 years). These benefits include:

• Full tuition support
• Monthly living allowance [a total of 54,000 ($ 14,400) annually]
• On-campus Housing
• Comprehensive health coverage at the university hospitals
• Relocation support for students from outside Riyadh
• Part-time work opportunities might be available
• Eligibility to work in KSA for up to one year after graduation

Eligibility Criteria

Interested applicants must meet the general requirements set by the Deanship of Graduate Studies for the Scholarship, applicants must ensure high academic standards. Further specific requirements are required based on the selected programs, as set by the department for the program.

General Requirements

1. Master\’s degree from an accredited institution
2. English proficiency: Only official TOEFL, IELTS, and STEP scores will be accepted. KSU requires a minimum TOEFL score of 61 on the IBT (Internet Based Test) or 6 on the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or 85 on STEP. The KSU admissions code for IELTS (147080) and for TOEFL (7498). A waiver from this requirement is possible if the applicant received a Master’s degree from an accredited institution in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
3. Two letters of recommendation
4. Curriculum Vitae (CV), with an evidence of a recent publication or a patent if available.
5. A statement of purpose.
6. The GRE general test is preferable, but not required, unless specified by the selected program.
7. A personal interview may be required (virtual or in-person).

Application Deadline

The scholarship portal of King Saud University opens 24th March 2025

How to Apply

Applications for the King Saud University Initiative Scholarship can be sent via the application portal for the initiative at https://dgsinitiative.ksu.edu.sa . Just register and apply online.