Checkout the Bachelor in Automotive Engineering in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 07, 2025 11:12:54
Known for its engineering and technical programs.
Offers Mechanical Engineering with specialization options that may include automotive topics.
Highly ranked in the Middle East.
One of the largest universities in the country.
Offers Mechanical Engineering and related research in automotive systems.
Often accepts international students through scholarship programs.
Offers mechanical and industrial engineering degrees.
Strong ties with industrial sectors in the western region of Saudi Arabia.
Hosts international students and offers scholarships.
A private university that offers English-medium instruction.
Offers engineering degrees with modern labs and facilities.
May be more accessible to international students compared to public universities.
Duration: 4-5 years
Language of Instruction: Mostly Arabic in public universities, but top universities like KFUPM and PSU offer many courses in English.
Curriculum: Core mechanical engineering with electives or projects in:
Vehicle dynamics
Internal combustion engines
Automotive electronics
Renewable energy in transportation
High school diploma equivalent to Saudi standards.
Good grades in math and sciences.
English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS may be required).
Some universities conduct admission tests or interviews.
Public universities often offer fully funded scholarships for international students covering:
Tuition
Accommodation
Monthly stipends
Medical care
These are competitive and often require strong academic performance.
Safe and modern infrastructure.
Gender-segregated education in some institutions.
Strong emphasis on discipline and academic performance.
Cost of living varies by city, but many international students live comfortably with scholarships.
Program: Bachelor in Automotive Engineering Technology (or similar title)
Focus: Applied engineering, vehicle systems, diagnostics, maintenance, and manufacturing.
Language: English-medium programs.
Note: JIC is one of the few institutions with a direct automotive technology focus.
Program: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Specializations: Vehicle dynamics, internal combustion engines, thermofluids, etc.
Note: Offers automotive-related research and projects under mechanical engineering.
Program: Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering
Automotive Focus: Students can choose automotive-related final year projects and electives.
Research: Some labs and research groups focus on automotive and transport systems.
Program: Mechanical Engineering with possible automotive applications.
Note: Offers courses in engine systems, mechanical design, and manufacturing that apply to automotive fields.
Offers diploma and applied bachelor programs in automotive technology, vehicle maintenance, and diagnostics.
More practical and hands-on than academic.
Suitable for students looking for careers in automotive service or manufacturing.
High School Certificate (or equivalent)
Must be completed with good grades, especially in Math, Physics, and Chemistry.
Some universities require a minimum GPA or percentage (usually above 75% or equivalent).
Certificate Equivalency
If your high school diploma is from outside Saudi Arabia, it must be certified and equalized by the Saudi Ministry of Education.
English Proficiency (especially for programs taught in English, like at KFUPM or JIC):
TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required.
TOEFL: Minimum 500 (PBT) / 61 (iBT)
IELTS: Minimum 5.5 – 6.0
Arabic Language:
Not required for most technical programs (which are usually in English), but useful for life outside campus.
Some programs in public universities may be in Arabic — check the medium of instruction.
High school certificate and transcripts
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
Passport-sized photos
Medical certificate (proving good health)
Police clearance certificate (sometimes requested)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Recommendation letters (some universities may ask for this)
Personal statement or statement of purpose (SOP)
Some universities may conduct:
Aptitude or placement tests
Personal interviews (in person or online)
Math/Physics entrance exams
Must have excellent academic records
Be between 17 to 25 years old
Meet health and conduct standards
Not currently receiving another scholarship from Saudi institutions
Once accepted, the university will issue a letter to apply for a student visa.
Must go through the Saudi Embassy or Cultural Mission in your country for processing.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Some programs may extend to 5 years if they include a foundation year, internship, or cooperative (co-op) training.
General/Foundation Year (if applicable)
Math, Physics, Chemistry, English, Computer Skills
Some universities require this for all engineering students.
Core Engineering Courses
Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Dynamics, Materials Science, etc.
Specialized Automotive Courses (in later years)
Vehicle Dynamics
Internal Combustion Engines
Automotive Electronics
Manufacturing Processes
Control Systems
Design Projects related to vehicles
Final Year Project / Capstone Design Project
Often automotive-focused if you're in a related track.
Internship / Co-Op Training (Optional or required at some universities)
Usually takes place in the 3rd or 4th year
Duration: 8–28 weeks, depending on the university
Automotive Engineering is highly practical, involving lab work, vehicle diagnostics, design simulations, and in-person assessments.
Most Saudi universities emphasize industrial training and co-op programs as part of graduation requirements.
Regulations by the Saudi Ministry of Education currently favor on-campus engineering education for quality assurance and accreditation purposes.
Some universities (like KFUPM and PSU) may offer theory-based courses online, especially in general education or early engineering subjects.
Labs and technical courses still require in-person attendance.
A few institutions or training platforms might offer short online courses or certifications in:
Vehicle Maintenance
Automotive Electrical Systems
Hybrid & EV Technology
But these are not full bachelor's degrees and are usually for professional development.
Begin with online mechanical engineering foundation courses (via international platforms or Open University).
Transfer credits (if accepted) to a Saudi university offering an in-person Bachelor in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering.
Complete your hands-on and lab-based coursework on campus in Saudi Arabia.
Semester |
Starts |
Application Period |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
September |
March – June (main intake for most programs) |
|
Spring Semester |
January/February |
September – November (limited programs/seats) |
Fall Intake: Main intake
Application Period: April to June
International Applications: Through the Royal Commission or coordinated directly with the college.
Fall Intake Only
Application Period: February to May
International students apply via scholarship portal or international student admissions unit.
Fall Intake: Main semester
Application Period: March – May
Application through the Ministry of Education scholarship program for international students.
Offers fully funded scholarships for international students.
Application Deadline: Usually around March 1 – May 30.
Intake begins in September.
Must apply early due to:
Document authentication
Visa processing
Scholarship applications
Start preparing documents at least 6–8 months in advance of your target intake.
High school certificate + transcripts
Passport copy
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Medical fitness certificate
Recommendation letters (if required)
Personal statement or SOP
University |
Program |
Type |
Tuition Fees (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Jubail Industrial College (JIC) |
Automotive Engineering Technology |
Public / Applied |
SAR 25,000 – 35,000(~USD 6,700 – 9,300) |
Offers practical training; medium of instruction is English |
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
Mechanical Engineering |
Public |
Free for scholarship students |
Highly competitive; scholarships cover full tuition & stipend |
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
Mechanical Engineering |
Public |
Free for scholarship students |
Funded by Saudi government for eligible international students |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
Mechanical Engineering |
Public |
Free for scholarship students |
Fully funded programs for international students |
|
Prince Sultan University (PSU) |
Mechanical Engineering |
Private |
SAR 55,000 – 65,000(~USD 14,700 – 17,300) |
English-medium, modern campus, accepts international students |
|
Alfaisal University |
Mechanical Engineering |
Private |
SAR 90,000+ (~USD 24,000+) |
One of the most expensive; internationally accredited programs |
|
TVTC Colleges (Applied Bachelor) |
Automotive Technology |
Public |
SAR 20,000 – 30,000(~USD 5,300 – 8,000) |
More vocational; practical-focused programs |
Expense Category |
Estimated Cost (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
SAR 0 – 90,000 |
Public universities may be free under scholarship; private universities charge full tuition |
|
Accommodation |
SAR 6,000 – 18,000 |
Varies by city, dorms cheaper than private housing |
|
Food & Groceries |
SAR 6,000 – 10,000 |
Moderate lifestyle, mix of dining out and cooking |
|
Transportation |
SAR 1,200 – 2,500 |
Local buses/taxis; student discounts often available |
|
Books & Study Materials |
SAR 1,000 – 2,000 |
Some universities include digital access or library use |
|
Health Insurance |
SAR 1,000 – 2,000 |
Often included in scholarship or required for visa |
|
Personal Expenses |
SAR 2,000 – 4,000 |
Shopping, entertainment, phone bills, etc. |
|
Visa & Residency (Iqama) |
SAR 1,000 – 2,000 |
One-time or yearly renewal, handled by sponsor/university |
Type of University |
With Scholarship |
Without Scholarship (Private) |
|---|---|---|
|
Public University (e.g. KFUPM, KAU, KSU) |
SAR 5,000 – 10,000 |
Tuition-free, includes dorms and stipend |
|
Private University (e.g. PSU, Alfaisal) |
SAR 65,000 – 120,000 |
Includes tuition, housing, and living costs |
100% tuition fee waiver
Free accommodation (on-campus)
Monthly stipend (~SAR 850 – 1,200)
Medical insurance
Free textbooks
Air ticket (arrival + return after graduation)
Item |
Monthly Estimate (SAR) |
|---|---|
|
Rent (shared) |
1,000 – 1,500 |
|
Food |
500 – 800 |
|
Transport |
100 – 250 |
|
Phone/Internet |
100 – 200 |
|
Miscellaneous |
300 – 500 |
|
Total |
2,000 – 3,200 SAR (~USD 530 – 850) |
Step |
Details |
|---|---|
|
1. Choose a University |
Identify universities offering Automotive Engineering or related Mechanical Engineering programs (e.g. JIC, KFUPM, KSU, KAU). |
|
2. Check Eligibility Criteria |
Ensure you meet academic and language requirements: |
|
3. Prepare Required Documents |
Common documents include: |
|
4. Certificate Equivalency |
Get your high school diploma certified and equalized by the Saudi Ministry of Education(usually done after acceptance or upon arrival). |
|
5. Apply Online |
Submit your application through: |
|
6. Entrance Test / Interview (if applicable) |
Some universities may conduct a placement test, personal interview, or require additional screening. |
|
7. Wait for Admission Decision |
If accepted, you’ll receive an Offer Letter or Acceptance Letter. |
|
8. Apply for Student Visa |
Use your acceptance letter to apply for a student visa at the Saudi embassy or cultural mission in your country. The university may help issue an Iqama (residency ID) later. |
|
9. Travel & Enrollment |
Arrive in Saudi Arabia before the semester begins, attend orientation, and complete on-campus registration. |
Full tuition fees
Monthly stipend
Free accommodation (furnished)
Free healthcare
Airfare (entry and return ticket)
Outstanding international students
Applicants must be between 17 and 25 years old
Must hold a high school diploma with excellent grades
Fully funded bachelor’s program
Monthly stipend and student housing
Free healthcare and books
Return ticket every year (in some cases)
Non-Saudi students from outside the Kingdom
High academic performance
Good health and behavior record
Must pass a university interview or placement test if required
KFUPM is more selective, and most of its full scholarships are for master’s and PhD students. However, exceptional students applying through government programs (or who have Saudi sponsorship) might be accepted under scholarship arrangements.
Offers scholarships for science and engineering programs
Covers tuition, monthly stipend, housing, and health care
Must be Muslim, male, and between 17–25 years old
Arabic is the main language, but engineering courses may be offered in English
Available to students from selected countries through diplomatic missions
Covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, medical insurance, and airfare
Offered at various public universities across the Kingdom
Application is often submitted through the Saudi Cultural Mission or Embassy in your home country
Private universities like Prince Sultan University and Alfaisal University offer:
Merit-based tuition discounts
Partial scholarships for top academic performers
Discounts for early applicants or those with high English proficiency scores
Keep your GPA high (above 90% or 3.75/4.0 scale)
Take IELTS or TOEFL to show strong English skills
Write a strong personal statement
Get good recommendation letters
Apply early — preferably 6–9 months before intake
Automotive Engineer
Vehicle Systems Designer
Powertrain/Engine Design Specialist
Quality Control Engineer
R&D (Research & Development) Engineer
Saudi Arabia is building EV factories like Lucid Motors (in King Abdullah Economic City), which will need engineers specialized in:
Battery technology
Electric powertrains
Sustainable vehicle systems
Work with companies involved in:
Automotive part manufacturing
Robotics & automation in assembly lines
Mechanical systems integration
NEOM, The Red Sea Project, and other mega-projects need transport systems engineers and specialists in:
Autonomous vehicles
Smart road infrastructure
Public transportation development
Diagnostic engineers
Vehicle testing specialists
Service & maintenance supervisors
Work with dealerships, service centers, and logistics companies
Many students go on to pursue Master’s degrees in:
Automotive Engineering
Mechanical Design
Mechatronics or Robotics
You could study further in Saudi Arabia, Europe, or the US (especially with a strong GPA and project portfolio)
With further study (like a Master's), you could teach engineering subjects at technical colleges or universities.
Lucid Motors
Petromin
Saudi Aramco (transport division)
Toyota, Ford, and General Motors (regional offices)
Saudi Railways Company (SAR)
National Industrial Clusters Development Program (NICDP)
NEOM & Red Sea Global
Public Sector / Manufacturing: SAR 6,000 – 9,000 per month (~USD 1,600 – 2,400)
Private Sector / Automotive Firms: SAR 5,000 – 8,000 (~USD 1,300 – 2,100)
With experience (3–5 years), salaries can go up significantly, especially in R&D or EV-related industries.
