Checkout the Master Programs in English in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 09, 2025 10:59:36
Language: All graduate programs are taught in English.
Fields: Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Biosciences, Materials Science, etc.
Notes: Highly research-focused, offers full scholarships to international students.
Language: Many graduate programs are taught in English.
Fields: Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Petroleum Engineering, and Environmental Studies.
Notes: Offers graduate assistantships or full scholarships for international students.
Language: Select Master's programs available in English.
Fields: Engineering, Business, Medical Sciences, Pharmacy, Computer Science.
Notes: One of the oldest and largest universities in the country.
Language: Offers many graduate programs in English, especially in science and engineering.
Fields: Engineering, Science, Environmental Design, Economics, and Medical Sciences.
Notes: Often provides scholarships for international students covering tuition and living expenses.
Language: All programs are in English.
Fields: Business, Engineering, Medicine, and Science.
Notes: Private university with strong international collaborations; admissions are competitive.
Language: English is the medium of instruction.
Fields: Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, and Law.
Notes: Private institution; attracts students from across the region.
Language: Some graduate programs taught in English.
Fields: Health Sciences, Engineering, and Business.
Notes: Offers support for international students depending on program.
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) – Thuwal
Language: All programs in English
Fields: Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Biosciences
Notes: Fully funded scholarships for all admitted students
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran
Language: Most graduate programs in English
Fields: Engineering, Sciences, Business, Energy, AI
Notes: Competitive scholarships and assistantships for international students
King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh
Language: Many programs offered in English
Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Medicine, Pharmacy
Notes: One of the top universities in the Arab region
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah
Language: Multiple Master’s programs in English
Fields: Engineering, Science, Business, Medical Sciences
Notes: Offers fully funded scholarships for international students
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) – Dammam
Language: Some programs in English
Fields: Engineering, Health Sciences, Business
Notes: Welcomes international students depending on program availability
Alfaisal University – Riyadh
Language: All instruction in English
Fields: Business, Engineering, Science, Medicine
Notes: Internationally accredited programs, private university
Prince Sultan University – Riyadh
Language: English instruction
Fields: Business, Engineering, Law, Computer Science
Notes: Competitive programs, private sector connections
Effat University – Jeddah (Women’s University)
Language: English
Fields: Engineering, Business, Cinematic Arts, Energy Engineering
Notes: Women-focused, with global partnerships
Bachelor’s Degree
From an accredited institution
Usually in a related field to the intended Master’s program
Minimum GPA: Typically 2.75 out of 4.0 or higher (varies by university)
English Language Proficiency
TOEFL iBT (usually 70–80 minimum) or
IELTS Academic (usually 6.0–6.5 minimum)
Exemption: Some universities waive this if the previous degree was taught in English
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts (in English or with certified translation)
May require attestation by the Ministry of Education or a similar authority
Recommendation Letters
Usually 2 or 3 academic/professional references
Submitted electronically or via official forms
Statement of Purpose (SOP) / Motivation Letter
Explaining your academic background, goals, and why you chose the program
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
Academic and work history, research experience (if applicable)
Passport Copy
Valid for the duration of study
National ID may also be requested if already in the Kingdom
Application Fee
Some universities charge a fee, others (especially public ones) may not
Admission Test / Interview
Some programs require a written test or interview (often online)
GRE/GMAT
Rarely required, but some competitive or business/engineering programs may ask for it
Research Proposal
Needed for research-intensive programs (especially at KAUST or KFUPM)
Strong academic performance
High English test scores
Research interest or experience
Commitment to full-time study
Full-time Programs:
1.5 to 2 years (3 to 4 semesters)
This is the most common duration for coursework-based or mixed (coursework + thesis) Master’s degrees.
Thesis-based Programs:
2 to 2.5 years
Programs with a strong research component may take longer, especially in science or engineering fields.
Part-time or Executive Programs:
2 to 3 years
These are designed for working professionals and often offered in business or management fields.
University |
Notes |
|---|---|
|
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
All graduate programs are in English. Strong research focus. |
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
Offers several Master's programs in English in science, engineering, and business. |
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
Strong engineering and science programs, offered in English. |
|
Alfaisal University |
Private university, many Master's programs (especially business and medicine) in English. |
|
Prince Sultan University |
English-taught Master's in business, engineering, computer science, etc. |
Bachelor's degree (usually in a related field)
English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS, if degree not from an English-medium institution)
Letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
Sometimes GRE/GMAT (depends on program)
Program Areas: Business Administration (MBA), Educational Leadership, Public Health
Language: English
Mode: Fully online and distance learning options
Notes: Popular for flexible online programs; recognized for e-learning initiatives.
Program Areas: Computer Science, Engineering, Business
Language: English (varies by program)
Mode: Some programs offered via blended or online format
Notes: One of the top public universities; expanding digital offerings.
Program Areas: MBA, Software Engineering, Data Science
Language: English
Mode: Online & hybrid options
Notes: Strong in STEM and business; online MBA is well recognized.
Program Areas: MBA, Education, IT
Language: English
Mode: Distance learning model
Notes: Offers British-accredited programs in partnership with UK institutions.
Program Areas: Business, Public Health, Engineering
Language: English
Mode: Some Master's programs offer hybrid/online delivery
Notes: Private university with international partnerships.
Program Areas: Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, Law
Language: English
Mode: Some programs offer flexible online or evening formats
Notes: Focus on modern and high-demand fields; private institution.
Start: September
Application Window: January to April/May
Most Common: Nearly all universities have their main Master’s intake here.
Start: January or February
Application Window: September to November
Note: Not all universities offer this intake; more common in private or flexible universities.
Start: June or July
Application Window: February to April
Note: Very few programs, often online or executive style (like MBA or short-term diplomas).
University |
Intake(s) |
Application Deadline (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
Fall |
March–May |
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
Fall |
January–April |
|
KAUST |
Fall only |
December–January (early), final deadline in March |
|
KFUPM |
Fall & Spring |
Fall: March–April |
|
Prince Sultan University |
Fall & Spring |
Rolling admissions; recommend applying by May (Fall) or November (Spring) |
|
Alfaisal University |
Fall & Spring |
Priority: March (Fall), October (Spring) |
|
Arab Open University |
Fall & Spring |
May (Fall), November (Spring) |
University |
Estimated Tuition (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
Low tuition; may vary by department |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
$2,500 – $5,000 |
Scholarships often available |
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) |
Free for many (with stipend) |
Highly competitive; offers full scholarships |
|
KAUST (King Abdullah University of Science & Technology) |
Free |
Full scholarships + stipend for all admitted students |
University |
Estimated Tuition (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Alfaisal University |
$13,000 – $20,000 |
Business, Engineering, Public Health programs |
|
Prince Sultan University |
$10,000 – $18,000 |
Cybersecurity, Business Analytics, MBA |
|
Arab Open University (AOU) |
$3,000 – $5,000 |
Affordable, UK-affiliated degrees |
|
Effat University (Jeddah) |
$10,000 – $16,000 |
Offers programs in English, often with international collaborations |
KAUST and KFUPM: Fully funded Master's with monthly stipend, housing, and health insurance.
KAU and KSU: Offer scholarships to international students based on merit.
Private universities: Often provide partial scholarships, especially for high-performing or early applicants.
Type of University |
Annual Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Public Universities |
$0 – $5,000 (Many offer scholarships or subsidies) |
|
Private Universities |
$8,000 – $20,000 |
|
Online Programs |
$3,000 – $10,000 |
Item |
Monthly Cost (USD) |
Yearly Estimate |
|---|---|---|
|
Housing (shared or student housing) |
$200 – $600 |
$2,400 – $7,200 |
|
Food & groceries |
$150 – $250 |
$1,800 – $3,000 |
|
Transport |
$50 – $100 |
$600 – $1,200 |
|
Health Insurance |
$200 – $400/year |
Included in some scholarships |
|
Misc. / Personal expenses |
$100 – $200 |
$1,200 – $2,400 |
Item |
Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
|
Student Visa |
$200 – $400 |
|
Airfare (one-way) |
$300 – $800 |
|
Books & Materials |
$200 – $500/year |
|
Registration/Admin Fees |
$100 – $500 (one-time) |
Category |
Public Univ. (with low tuition) |
Private Univ. |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition |
$0 – $5,000 |
$8,000 – $20,000 |
|
Living Expenses |
$6,000 – $10,000 |
$6,000 – $10,000 |
|
Other Costs |
$500 – $1,000 |
$500 – $1,000 |
|
TOTAL (approx.) |
$6,500 – $16,000/year |
$14,500 – $31,000/year |
KAUST: 100% free + stipend + housing — top option for STEM fields
KFUPM: Often fully funded for top applicants in Engineering, Business
Arab Open University: Very affordable + flexible + English-taught programs
Online programs: Lower tuition, flexible study, lower living cost
Identify the field you want to study (e.g. Engineering, Business, IT, Public Health, etc.)
Decide on university type: public (e.g. KSU, KAUST, KFUPM) or private (e.g. Alfaisal, Prince Sultan)
Check if the program is taught in English (most graduate STEM and business programs are)
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Minimum GPA: usually 2.75/4.0 or equivalent
Some programs require specific coursework or experience
IELTS: 6.0 – 6.5
TOEFL iBT: 70 – 90
(Waived if previous degree was in English)
GRE: Required for many STEM and science programs (especially at KAUST)
GMAT: For MBA programs (sometimes optional)
Not all universities require this — varies by program.
Bachelor’s degree certificate & transcripts
English proficiency test score
Updated CV / resume
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (2–3)
Copy of passport / ID
Photograph
Some may ask for a research proposal (for thesis-track programs)
Fill out the online application form on the university’s admission portal
Upload scanned documents
Pay the application fee (if any)
Submit before the application deadline
Deadlines:
Fall intake: January – May
Spring intake: September – November (if offered)
Takes anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks
You may be invited for an online interview (especially at research universities like KAUST)
Once accepted, you’ll receive an official offer letter
Start the visa application process through the Saudi embassy or consulate
Some universities help with this if you're an international student
Pay tuition deposit (if required)
Attend orientation (online or on-campus)
Begin classes in September (Fall) or January (Spring)
Fully funded (tuition, housing, healthcare, and stipend)
Monthly stipend: $1,000–$1,800
Open to all nationalities
Fields: Science, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, etc.
Apply by: December–March for Fall intake
Full tuition + monthly stipend + housing + healthcare
Open to Saudi and international students
Fields: Engineering, Business, Science, Computer Science
May require GRE for some programs
Apply by: March–April (Fall), September–October (Spring)
Full scholarship for international students
Includes monthly allowance, free accommodation, healthcare, and airfare
Fields: Science, Engineering, Business, Humanities
For non-Saudis applying to on-campus English-taught programs
Open to students from IsDB member countries
Covers tuition, stipend, health insurance, and travel
Fields: Science, Technology, Education, Agriculture, and Health
Can be used at select Saudi universities that accept the scholarship
Apply through the IsDB portal (usually Jan–Apr)
For international students from selected countries
Full tuition + monthly stipend + airfare + healthcare
Can be used at several public universities in Saudi Arabia
Offered in collaboration with universities like KAU, KSU, Imam University, etc.
University |
Type |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Alfaisal University |
Partial tuition waivers |
Based on GPA, GMAT/GRE scores, or leadership |
|
Prince Sultan University |
Merit-based scholarships |
Available for high-achieving local and international students |
|
Effat University |
Partial funding |
Scholarships available for women, and some programs tied to industry sponsors |
|
Arab Open University (AOU) |
Low tuition + occasional grants |
Especially for financially needy students |
Strong academic background (GPA matters)
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Recommendation letters
Statement of purpose or personal statement
Research proposal (for thesis-based scholarships)
Sometimes GRE/GMAT (mainly for STEM or MBA)
Roles: Project Engineer, Data Analyst, AI Specialist, Cloud Engineer, Industrial Engineer
Employers: Aramco, SABIC, NEOM, STC, Huawei, Schneider Electric
Roles: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, HR Specialist, Strategy Consultant, Financial Analyst
Employers: PIF (Public Investment Fund), KPMG, PwC, Deloitte, banks, and startups
Roles: Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Consultant, Data Scientist
Employers: Ministry of Communications, STC, IBM, Noon, NEOM Tech & Digital Holding
Roles: Lecturer, Researcher, Curriculum Developer, Academic Coordinator
Employers: King Saud University, KAUST, KAU, international schools & education startups
Roles: Health Policy Analyst, Public Health Consultant, Epidemiologist
Employers: Ministry of Health, private hospitals, WHO-affiliated orgs in Riyadh
Roles: Environmental Consultant, Urban Planner, Renewable Energy Analyst
Employers: The Red Sea Project, NEOM, Ministry of Environment, ACWA Power
You'll need a work visa sponsored by an employer.
High-demand fields (like tech, engineering, education, and health) are more open to international talent.
Many multinational companies and projects under Vision 2030 hire foreign graduates, especially with local degrees.
Option |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Employment in Saudi Arabia |
Stay and work with a company that sponsors your visa. Many grads from KAUST, KFUPM, etc. get offers locally. |
|
Work in GCC or abroad |
Degrees from top Saudi universities are recognized internationally — especially if taught in English. |
|
PhD or further research |
Universities like KAUST, KSU, or even abroad (US, UK, Europe) often accept Saudi Master’s grads for PhD. |
|
Start your own business |
With entrepreneurship initiatives and startup accelerators like Misk, you can apply for support to launch your own venture. |
Build a strong LinkedIn profile (English & Arabic if possible)
Attend career fairs at your university
Apply to graduate training programs at Aramco, PIF, SABIC, STC, and banks
Network through professional groups and startup hubs in cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran
