Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
Oct 1, 2025
Applications close
Jan 15, 2026
Results announced
Apr 1, 2026
Period begins
Aug 25, 2026
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
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Any nationality (including Pakistani)
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Bachelor's degree (for Master's) or Master's degree (for PhD) in STEM field
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Strong academic record and research potential
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English proficiency (TOEFL 79+ or IELTS 6.0+)
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GRE recommended but not mandatory
Who this is NOT for
- Short-term residency seekers: Candidates looking for conference or travel support rather than active degree enrollment.
- Remote learners: Students planning to attend online degree modules from Pakistan.
- U.S. Dual Citizens: Dual nationals holding U.S. citizenship (for U.S. study grants).
- Late planners: Those unable to commit 9–12 months of early preparation for visa and document assembly.
03 — Documents
Required credentials
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KAUST online application
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Academic transcripts
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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3 recommendation letters
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Statement of purpose
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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CV/Resume
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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English proficiency score
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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GRE scores (recommended)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
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Research publications (if any)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
04 — The pipeline
Narrative steps, four acts
Most candidates underestimate how much prep work is done before the online form opens. Follow this structured chronological timeline to plan deliberately.
Visit kaust.edu.sa and browse programmes
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Complete the online application...
Complete the online application through KAUST admissions portal
Submit academic transcripts, test...
Submit academic transcripts, test scores, and recommendations
Shortlisted candidates may be...
Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed (virtual or in-person)
Admission = full fellowship...
Admission = full fellowship (no separate scholarship application)
Obtain Saudi visa and...
Obtain Saudi visa and relocate to KAUST
Get the free application checklist (PDF)
A comprehensive, printable spreadsheet checklist mapping milestones, required essays, references, and deadline checks.
05 — Answered
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply for the fellowship separately?
No, every admitted student automatically receives the full fellowship.
Is the campus safe for international students?
Yes, KAUST is a gated, international community with its own governance and liberal campus environment.
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