King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, invites outstanding graduate students from Saudi Arabia and around the world to apply for its fully funded PhD scholarship. This initiative, approved by the KSU Board of Directors, aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, promoting advanced education, scientific research, and sustainable development.

KSU seeks highly qualified candidates with strong academic and research backgrounds to pursue a PhD in engineering, science, computer science, pharmacy, and related fields. This program aims to enhance research productivity, foster innovation, and support global academic collaboration, contributing to KSU’s transformation into a world-class institution.

Key Details

• Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
• Result Announcement: Late June 2025
• Start Date: Fall Semester (August 2025) or Winter Semester (January 2026)
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Host Institution: King Saud University (KSU)
• Study Level: PhD
• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities
• Duration: Three years
• Language of Instruction: English
• Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Fields of Study

College of Computer and Information Sciences

• PhD in Computer Science
• PhD in Computer Engineering
• PhD in Software Engineering

College of Engineering

• PhD in Civil Engineering (various specializations)

• PhD in Chemical Engineering (various specializations)

• PhD in Electrical Engineering (various specializations)

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering (various specializations)

College of Science

• PhD in Zoology
• PhD in Biochemistry
• PhD in Physics
• PhD in Chemistry

College of Food and Agriculture Sciences

• PhD in Food Sciences

College of Pharmacy

• PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology

• PhD in Pharmaceutics

• PhD in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

• PhD in Health Rehabilitation Sciences

Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Annual stipend of SAR 54,000 (~$14,400)
• On-campus housing
• Comprehensive health insurance
•  Relocation support for international students
•  Access to part-time work opportunities
• Eligibility to work in Saudi Arabia for up to one year post-graduation

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:
✔ Hold a Master’s degree from an accredited institution
✔ Meet English proficiency requirements (one of the following):

• TOEFL iBT: 61

• IELTS: 6.0

• STEP: 85

• Exemption: Candidates with a Master’s degree from the U.S., Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand
  ✔ Submit two recommendation letters
  ✔ Provide a CV highlighting academic and research achievements
  ✔ Submit a statement of purpose outlining research goals
  ✔ GRE scores are preferred but not mandatory (except for programs that require them)
  ✔ Be available for a virtual or in-person interview, if required

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload the following:
📌 Completed online application form
📌 Official Master’s degree certificate & transcripts
📌 Valid TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP scores
📌 Two recommendation letters
📌 Updated CV (with research publications, if any)
📌 Statement of purpose
📌 GRE scores (if required by the program)
📌 Passport or national ID copy
📌 Any additional documents requested by the selected department

Application Process

1. Visit the KSU online application portal (link available on the official website).
2. Register and complete the online application form.
3. Upload all required documents before the May 15, 2025 deadline.
4. Wait for notification from the Initiative Steering Committee.If shortlisted, attend an interview (if required).
5. Receive admission confirmation and prepare for enrollment in the Fall (August 2025) or Winter (January 2026) semester.

Apply Now

Further details and information regarding this scholarship are available on the official KSU website.