Checkout the Bachelor in Computer Science in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 07, 2025 10:42:32
Location: Dhahran
Language: English
Tuition: Often waived for high-achieving students (they offer scholarships!)
Why it’s great: Highly ranked in STEM and offers generous scholarships for international students.
Location: Riyadh
Language: English (especially in science and tech courses)
Tuition: Affordable, with some scholarship opportunities
Why it’s great: One of the oldest and most respected universities in the country.
Location: Jeddah
Language: English (in many departments, including CS)
Tuition: Scholarships available for international students
Why it’s great: Ranked among top universities in the Arab world.
Location: Al Khobar
Language: English (all programs)
Tuition: Around SAR 55,000–70,000 per year (~USD 14,500–18,500)
Why it’s great: Private university with a modern curriculum and strong industry ties.
High school diploma (science stream preferred)
English proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS (some may waive it if schooling was in English)
Standardized tests (like SAT) may be optional or recommended
Personal statement or motivation letter
Some universities require entrance exams or interviews
Public universities: Often offer free or low-cost education to international students (especially with scholarships)
Private universities: More expensive but may have merit-based scholarships
KAU & KFUPM offer fully-funded scholarships (including housing, monthly stipend, travel tickets)
Cost of Living: ~SAR 2,000–4,000/month (~USD 530–1,000) depending on the city
Accommodation: Many universities provide dorms
Cultural Considerations: Conservative society, but international campuses are quite diverse
Quality education and modern campuses
Strategic location in the Middle East
Growing tech and innovation sector
Generous government scholarships
Dhahran
Program: BSc in Computer Science, Software Engineering
Language: English
Scholarships: Fully-funded scholarships available for international students
Highlights: One of the best universities in the Arab world, known for research and innovation.
Riyadh
Program: BSc in Computer Science, Information Technology
Language: English (for most technical courses)
Scholarships: Limited spots for international students under government scholarship
Highlights: Oldest university in Saudi Arabia; strong academic reputation.
Jeddah
Program: BSc in Computer Science, Information Systems
Language: English
Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships available for international students (KAU Scholarship)
Highlights: Highly ranked university with international student-friendly policies.
Riyadh
Program: BSc in Computer Science, Software Engineering
Language: English
Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships
Highlights: Private university with strong English-based curriculum and modern tech facilities.
Al Khobar
Program: BSc in Computer Science
Language: English
Scholarships: Available for high-achieving students
Highlights: Private institution focused on practical, project-based learning.
Dammam
Program: BSc in Computer Science, IT
Language: English
Scholarships: Available through government programs
Highlights: Offers modern programs and has a growing international presence.
Riyadh
Program: BSc in Software Engineering & Computer Science
Language: English
Scholarships: Academic scholarships available
Highlights: Private, research-focused university with international partnerships.
Jeddah
Program: BSc in Computer Science, Cybersecurity
Language: English
Scholarships: Available for top students
Highlights: Women’s university with international standards and partnerships with U.S. institutions.
High School Certificate (equivalent to Saudi secondary education)
Must be in the Science stream (with math and preferably physics or computer science)
Usually a minimum GPA of 80–90% (or equivalent, e.g., 3.0+ out of 4)
Official Transcripts – certified and translated into English or Arabic
Test |
Typical Minimum Score |
|---|---|
|
IELTS |
5.5 – 6.0 |
|
TOEFL iBT |
65 – 80 |
Passport copy
Personal statement / Motivation letter
Recommendation letters (optional at some universities)
Medical report (for visa and residency processing)
Recent passport-size photos
CV/Resume (not always required for undergrad, but a plus)
KFUPM and some other top schools may have their own admission tests.
Some may consider standardized tests like the SAT or ACT, but not all require it.
For Saudi applicants, there's the Qudrat (aptitude test), but this is not required for most international students.
Usually, students should be under 25 years old at the time of applying for a Bachelor’s degree (especially for scholarship eligibility).
If you are applying as a self-funded student, you may need to show proof of financial support (bank statement).
If applying for a scholarship, you’ll need:
Scholarship application form
Sometimes a separate essay or documentation for eligibility
Once accepted:
Apply for a student visa via the Saudi embassy
Need university acceptance letter, medical checkup report, and police clearance certificate
General/Foundation Courses
Mathematics (Calculus, Discrete Math, Linear Algebra)
Physics, Communication Skills, Islamic/Arabic Culture (required for all students in Saudi Arabia)
Core Computer Science Courses
Programming (C++, Java, Python)
Data Structures & Algorithms
Operating Systems
Database Systems
Software Engineering
Computer Architecture
Networks & Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning (in advanced semesters)
Elective Courses / Specializations
Cloud Computing, IoT, Game Development, Robotics, etc.
Final Year Project / Capstone
Often includes a team-based software or research project.
Internship / Co-op (in some universities)
Usually in the 3rd or 4th year
Required in schools like KFUPM, PMU, and PSU to give industry experience
Most universities still prioritize in-person programs, especially for practical and lab-based courses like Computer Science.
However, some institutions now offer blended learning (mix of online and on-campus) or full online degrees, especially post-COVID-19.
Headquartered in Riyadh (with branches in other cities)
Program: Bachelor in Information Technology (close to CS)
Mode: Blended Learning (60% online, 40% in-person)
Language: English
Duration: 4 years
Tuition: Moderate, SAR 265 per credit hour (~USD $70)
International Students: Mainly open to residents in Saudi Arabia or GCC
Program: Bachelor in Information Technology and Computing
Specializations: Software Development, Computing, Web Development
Mode: Blended (online + some in-person classes)
Accredited by: Ministry of Education (Saudi Arabia) & UK Open University
Language: English
Duration: 4 years
Available to international students living in KSA
High school diploma (science stream preferred)
English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required)
Computer/laptop with good internet connection
Residency in Saudi Arabia (for SEU and AOU)
Starts: September
Applications Open: Usually January to May
Deadlines: Between April and June
Starts: January or February
Applications Open: September – October (in the previous year)
Deadlines: October – November
University |
Fall 2025 Intake Deadline (Estimated) |
Spring Intake Available? |
|---|---|---|
|
KAU (King Abdulaziz) |
May 2025 |
No (Fall only) |
|
KFUPM |
April–May 2025 |
No |
|
KSU (King Saud) |
May–June 2025 |
No |
|
Saudi Electronic University (SEU) |
July 2025 |
Yes (Jan/Feb) |
|
Prince Sultan University (PSU) |
June–July 2025 |
Yes |
|
Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) |
Rolling admissions (until seats filled) |
Yes |
University |
Tuition Fee (International Students) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
Free (with scholarship) |
Fully funded scholarships include tuition, accommodation, stipend |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
Free (with scholarship) |
Full scholarships available for top international students |
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
Low or free (with scholarship) |
Priority for students from specific countries |
|
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) |
Low (approx. SAR 1,000–3,000/semester) |
May offer fee waivers or subsidies |
University |
Approx. Annual Tuition (SAR) |
USD Equivalent (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University (PMU) |
SAR 55,000 – 70,000/year |
$14,500 – $18,500 |
|
Prince Sultan University (PSU) |
SAR 50,000 – 65,000/year |
$13,000 – $17,000 |
|
Alfaisal University |
SAR 80,000 – 95,000/year |
$21,000 – $25,000 |
|
Effat University (for women) |
SAR 55,000 – 70,000/year |
$14,500 – $18,500 |
|
Arab Open University (Blended Program) |
SAR 8,000 – 12,000/year |
$2,000 – $3,200 |
|
Saudi Electronic University (SEU) |
SAR 265 per credit hour |
$9,500 total for degree |
Full tuition fees
Accommodation
Flight tickets (annual round trip)
Monthly stipend (SAR 850–1,000/month)
Books allowance
KAU International Scholarship
KFUPM Undergraduate Scholarship
Saudi Government Scholarship Program (SGSP)
Type of University |
Annual Tuition (SAR) |
USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
|
Public (with scholarship) |
Free |
$0 |
|
Public (self-funded) |
SAR 3,000–10,000 |
$800–$2,700 |
|
Private universities |
SAR 50,000–95,000 |
$13,000–$25,000 |
|
Online/Blended (SEU, AOU) |
SAR 8,000–12,000 |
$2,100–$3,200 |
Expense Category |
Estimated Cost (SAR/month) |
USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation (shared or dorm) |
800–2,000 |
$210–$530 |
|
Food |
500–900 |
$130–$240 |
|
Transport (bus, metro, ride-hailing) |
150–300 |
$40–$80 |
|
Internet & Mobile |
100–200 |
$27–$53 |
|
Personal Expenses |
200–500 |
$53–$130 |
Monthly Total: SAR 1,750–3,900
Yearly Total: SAR 21,000–46,800 (~$5,600–$12,500)
Item |
Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
|
Visa & Residence Permit (Iqama) |
SAR 2,000 – 3,000 ($530–800) |
|
Health Insurance (mandatory) |
SAR 1,000 – 2,000/year ($270–530) |
|
Flight Ticket (annual) |
SAR 2,500 – 4,000 ($660–1,070) |
|
Books & Supplies |
SAR 500 – 1,000/semester |
Category |
Public (No Scholarship) |
Private University |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition |
SAR 3,000 – 10,000 |
SAR 50,000 – 95,000 |
|
Living |
SAR 21,000 – 46,800 |
SAR 21,000 – 46,800 |
|
Total |
SAR 24,000 – 56,800 |
SAR 71,000 – 141,800 |
|
USD Equivalent |
$6,400 – $15,000 |
$19,000 – $37,800 |
Software Engineering
Information Technology
Computer Engineering
High school certificate (science stream is preferred)
Transcripts (translated into English or Arabic)
Certificate equivalency (if required, depending on your home country's system)
Passport copy (valid at least 6 months)
Recent passport-size photos
National ID (if applicable)
Birth certificate (some universities require this)
English Proficiency Test (TOEFL or IELTS)
Personal statement or motivation letter
Recommendation letters (optional but helpful)
Medical report (for visa and residency)
Proof of financial support (if not applying for scholarship)
Fall intake: Applications usually open Jan–March and close by May–June
Spring intake (if available): Apply between September–November
Fill in personal and academic details
Upload required documents
Choose your desired major (e.g., Computer Science)
Not all universities charge an application fee, but some private institutions do (around SAR 300–500 or $80–$130).
Online aptitude tests
Possible math or programming assessments
Interviews (rare, but may happen)
You’ll be notified by email (usually 4–8 weeks after deadline)
If accepted, you’ll receive:
Admission letter
Visa sponsorship or reference number
Instructions for registration
Once accepted:
Visit the Saudi embassy/consulate in your country
Submit your admission letter, passport, medical check, and visa form
Upon approval, you’ll receive a student visa (Iqama)
Arrive before classes start (usually in August or early September)
Attend orientation, register courses, submit original documents
Move into university housing or arrange accommodation
Location: Jeddah
Covers:
Full tuition fees
Monthly stipend (SAR 850)
Free accommodation & meals
Health care
One round-trip air ticket per year
Eligibility:
Must have high school certificate (with good grades)
Age between 17–25
English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Apply: Jan–May (for Fall intake)
Location: Dhahran
Highly competitive – known for engineering & computer science
Covers:
Tuition
Monthly stipend
Free housing
Medical insurance
Eligibility:
Strong math/science background
English proficiency
Competitive academic record
Apply: Opens around Feb–Apr
Location: Madinah
Focuses on science and Shariah programs (Computer Science available)
Covers:
Full tuition
Free accommodation
Monthly stipend
Travel ticket & health care
Eligibility:
Male Muslim students only
High school certificate
Age 17–25
Offered via Ministry of Education or through individual universities
Covers:
Tuition fees
Living expenses
Airfare and visa support
Eligibility:
Students from selected countries
Good academic performance
Apply through Saudi embassies or directly to universities
Location: Riyadh (private university)
Covers:
Partial to full tuition fee waiver based on merit
Eligibility:
High academic GPA
Strong extracurricular or leadership profile
Must maintain high grades to keep scholarship
Location: Jeddah
Covers:
Up to 100% tuition waiver (based on academic merit)
Eligibility:
Female international students
High school diploma (science stream)
English proficiency
Location: Riyadh
Covers:
Up to 50–100% tuition waiver
Eligibility:
Based on academic excellence
Limited seats for international students
Age between 17–25
Strong high school GPA (usually 80–90% or higher)
English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Valid passport
Good health (medical report often required)
Recommendation letters or personal statement (optional, but helpful)
Role |
Average Salary (Monthly, SAR) |
Key Skills |
|---|---|---|
|
Software Developer |
8,000 – 15,000 |
Python, Java, C++, Web Dev |
|
Data Analyst |
7,000 – 13,000 |
SQL, Excel, Python, Power BI |
|
Cybersecurity Analyst |
10,000 – 18,000 |
Network Security, Firewalls |
|
Network Engineer |
9,000 – 14,000 |
Networking, CCNA, Linux |
|
IT Support Specialist |
5,000 – 9,000 |
Hardware, Software, Helpdesk |
|
Web Developer |
6,000 – 11,000 |
HTML, CSS, JavaScript |
|
AI/ML Engineer (with specialization) |
12,000 – 20,000+ |
Python, ML, TensorFlow |
|
Database Administrator |
8,000 – 14,000 |
SQL, Oracle, DBMS |
|
Game Developer |
6,000 – 12,000 |
Unity, Unreal Engine |
|
Mobile App Developer |
7,000 – 13,000 |
Android, iOS, Flutter |
Government Sector (digital transformation initiatives)
Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT)
Digital Government Authority (DGA)
Neom, The Red Sea Project
Tech & Telecom
STC (Saudi Telecom Company)
Mobily
Zain
Finance & Banking
Saudi Central Bank
Al Rajhi Bank
NCB, Riyad Bank (tech departments)
Private Companies / Startups
Noon
Careem
Jahez
STC Pay
Multinationals
Microsoft Arabia
IBM
SAP
Oracle
Amazon Web Services (AWS – regional offices)
