KAUST is ranked as the 8th fastest-rising university in the world and offers a wide range of academic programs in engineering, computer, natural, and physical sciences. KAUST also boasts a vibrant and multicultural community of students, faculty, and staff from over 100 countries.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
The scholarship is open to applicants from all over the world, regardless of their nationality, gender, or background. The only requirements are:
- You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field of study
- You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 out of 4.0 or higher (or equivalent)
- You must have a TOEFL score of 79 or higher or an IELTS score of 6.0 or higher (if English is not your native language)
- You must have a GRE score of 300 or higher (optional, but recommended)
If you meet these criteria, then you can proceed to the online application process, which consists of the following steps:
- Create an account on the KAUST admission portal
- Fill out the online application form with your personal, academic, and professional information
- Upload the required documents, such as transcripts, diplomas, test scores, CV, and statement of purpose
- Provide the contact details of at least two referees who can write letters of recommendation for you
- Submit your application before the deadline, which is open for the 2024 intake
That’s it! You have completed the application process for the King Abdullah University Scholarship. Now, you just have to wait for the admission decision, which will be communicated to you via email.
If you are accepted, you will receive an official offer letter and a visa invitation letter. You will also be assigned a student advisor who will guide you through the enrollment and orientation process.
Benefits of the KAUST Scholarship
The scholarship is one of the most generous and comprehensive scholarship programs in the world, and it offers the following benefits and features:
- Full free tuition support for the duration of your studies
- Monthly living allowance (from $20,000 to $30,000 annually, depending on qualifications and degree progress)
- On-campus housing in fully furnished apartments with utilities and internet
- Medical and dental coverage for you and your dependents
- Relocation support, including airfare, visa fees, and baggage allowance
- Access to KAUST’s world-class research centers, laboratories, libraries, and facilities
- Opportunity to work with renowned faculty and researchers on innovative projects and publications
- Exposure to a diverse and multicultural community of students, faculty, and staff
- Participation in various academic, social, and cultural activities and events
- Career development and placement services upon graduation
The King Abdullah University Scholarship is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that will not only fund your education but also enrich your personal and professional growth. You will be able to pursue your passion and interests in a stimulating and supportive environment and make lasting connections and friendships with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Tips and Tricks to Make Your Application Stand Out
Finally, let me give you some tips and tricks to make your application stand out and increase your chances of getting accepted. The King Abdullah University Scholarship is a highly competitive and selective program, and only the best and brightest candidates are admitted.
Therefore, you need to make sure that your application showcases your academic excellence, research potential, and motivation. Here are some suggestions on how to do that:
- Choose a program and a research area that match your interests, skills, and goals. KAUST offers a diverse range of academic fields, which you can explore on its website. You should also check the profiles of the faculty members and their research projects, and identify the ones that you would like to work with. This will help you write a compelling statement of purpose and demonstrate your fit and alignment with KAUST’s vision and mission.
- Prepare well for the standardized tests, such as TOEFL, IELTS, and GRE. These tests are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended, as they can boost your application and show your proficiency and aptitude. You should aim for high scores that reflect your academic potential and readiness for graduate studies. You can find many online resources and practice tests to help you prepare for these exams.
- Write a strong statement of purpose that highlights your academic achievements, research interests, career goals, and reasons for applying to KAUST. Your statement of purpose is your chance to tell your story and convince the admission committee that you are a suitable and deserving candidate for the scholarship. You should write clearly, concisely, and persuasively, and avoid any grammatical or spelling errors. You should also tailor your statement to the specific program and research area that you are applying to, and mention the faculty members that you would like to work with.
- Ask for letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can vouch for your academic performance, research skills, and personal qualities. Your letters of recommendation should provide specific examples and evidence of your achievements, contributions, and potential. They should also highlight your strengths, abilities, and personality traits that make you a good fit for KAUST and the scholarship program. You should ask your referees to write the letters well in advance and provide them with your CV, transcripts, and statement of purpose so that they can write relevant and detailed letters.
- Proofread and review your application before submitting it. You should make sure that your application is complete, accurate, and consistent, and that it meets the requirements and standards of KAUST. You should also check for any errors, typos, or inconsistencies that might affect your application.
