Checkout the Masters in Economics in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 05, 2025 12:49:49
King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh
One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Saudi Arabia.
Offers a Master’s in Economics with research and thesis components.
Known for strong faculty and academic resources.
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah
Offers programs in Economics and related fields like Islamic Economics.
Provides scholarships for international students.
Strong international collaborations.
Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) – Riyadh
Offers graduate programs in Economics and Islamic Finance.
Focuses on integrating Islamic economic principles with modern frameworks.
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran
Though mainly focused on science and engineering, it offers programs in Business & Economics.
Highly ranked in the region with rigorous admission standards.
Bachelor’s Degree in Economics or related field
Minimum GPA requirements (usually 3.0/4.0 or equivalent)
English proficiency – TOEFL or IELTS scores (unless the undergrad degree was in English)
May require GRE for some programs
Letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and CV
King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP)
Covers tuition, health insurance, monthly stipend, travel costs
University-specific scholarships
Many universities offer full funding including accommodation
Choose your university and check the program requirements
Prepare and submit your documents online
Await admission decision (can take a few months)
Apply for a student visa after acceptance
Most Master’s programs in Economics are taught in English, especially at top universities.
Some may include Arabic or Islamic Economics courses taught in Arabic.
Saudi Arabia is rapidly opening up to international students.
Safe environment, especially for students.
Cost of living is reasonable with scholarships.
Male and female students typically study in gender-segregated campuses (but this is gradually changing).
King Saud University (KSU) – Riyadh
Offers a Master of Arts in Economics
Focus on both theoretical and applied economics
One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the region
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) – Jeddah
Offers Master’s programs in Economics and Islamic Economics
Well-known for research and postgraduate studies
Welcomes international students with scholarships
Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU) – Riyadh
Offers postgraduate programs in Economics and Islamic Economic Studies
Strong emphasis on Sharia-compliant financial and economic systems
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) – Dhahran
Offers graduate programs through its College of Industrial Management
Programs focus on applied economics, finance, and energy economics
Highly competitive with strong research emphasis
Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) – Riyadh
Women-only university
Offers programs in economics and business-related fields
Large international student support network
Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) – Makkah
Offers Islamic Economics and conventional Economics master’s programs
Strong integration of economics with Islamic finance and policy
Taibah University – Medina
Offers a Master's in Economics with focus on development and Islamic principles
Supports regional development studies
Qassim University – Buraydah
Offers Master's programs in Economics and Business
Focus on applied economics and research skills
Islamic University of Madinah – Medina
Offers programs in Islamic Economics (for male students)
Strong foundation in Sharia-compliant economic theory
Bachelor’s Degree
Must hold a Bachelor's degree in Economics or a related field (e.g., Finance, Business, Statistics, or Mathematics).
Degree must be from a recognized university.
Minimum GPA
Most universities require a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).
Some top universities may have more competitive GPA requirements.
English Language Proficiency
If the program is in English (which many are), you’ll need to submit:
IELTS (usually minimum 6.0–6.5) or
TOEFL iBT (minimum 70–80)
If you completed your undergraduate studies in English, you may be exempted (case by case).
Entrance Exam (Sometimes Required)
Some programs may require you to take a university entrance exam or even a GRE, though not all do.
More common in highly-ranked or research-intensive programs.
Recommendation Letters
Usually 2 academic or professional references are required.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
A personal statement explaining your goals, why you want to study economics, and why you chose that university.
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
A full resume listing your academic background, research, work experience, etc.
Passport and Identity Documents
Valid passport
Certified transcripts and certificates
Some universities require translated documents if not originally in Arabic or English
Student Visa: You'll need an acceptance letter before applying for a Saudi student visa.
Medical Test: Some universities require a medical fitness certificate.
Interview: Some programs may ask for an online or in-person interview.
2 years (4 semesters)
This is the most common duration across universities in Saudi Arabia for full-time students.
Thesis Track (Research-Based)
Year 1: Coursework
Year 2: Thesis research and defense
Usually required for students aiming for a PhD later on.
Non-Thesis Track (Coursework-Based or Professional Track)
Entire duration is focused on coursework and possibly a capstone project or comprehensive exam.
One of the few universities offering distance learning and e-learning programs.
While the Master's in Economics is primarily on-campus, they do offer online programs in related fields like Public Administration and Business.
They’re expanding their digital learning platform, so hybrid formats may be offered in the future.
Specializes in blended learning (online + in-person).
Currently offers graduate programs in business, finance, and health informatics.
While no specific Master’s in Economics is offered yet, related degrees in business and finance may suit those with an economics background.
Based internationally but serves many Saudi and GCC students.
Offers online programs in Islamic Economics and Finance.
This is not a Saudi university, but it's popular among students seeking Sharia-compliant economic education.
Fully accredited online Master’s in Economics in Saudi Arabia is still rare, especially if you want a traditional economics degree.
Some programs offer evening or weekend classes and hybrid formats (in-person + virtual), but they often require residency or presence in Saudi Arabia.
If you are already residing in Saudi Arabia, options might open up for hybrid or executive-style programs.
Starts: September
Applications Open: Around January to March
Deadline: Typically March to May
Starts: February (rare)
Applications Open: Around September to October
Deadline: October to November
Timeline |
Action |
|---|---|
|
Jan – Mar |
Application portal opens for Fall intake |
|
Apr – May |
Submission deadline |
|
Jun – Jul |
Interviews or entrance exams (if required) |
|
Jul – Aug |
Admission decisions and scholarship announcements |
|
Sep |
Semester begins |
King Saud University (KSU)
Fall intake only
Applications usually open January–March
Results by June or July
King Abdulaziz University (KAU)
Fall intake is standard
Application usually open between December–February for international scholarships
Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU)
Fall intake
Deadlines usually in early spring
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)
Offers Fall and Spring intakes
Fall deadline: Feb–Mar
Spring deadline: Sep–Oct
Online portal for international applicants
University |
Program Type |
Tuition Fee (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
MA in Economics |
Free (with scholarship) |
Funded for international students via scholarships. |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
MA in Economics |
Free (with scholarship) |
Fully funded scholarships available for international students. |
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals |
MSc in Applied Economics |
Free (with scholarship) |
Competitive admission; includes stipend, housing. |
|
Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University |
MA in Islamic Economics |
~SAR 30,000/year (if paid) |
Typically free for scholarship students. |
|
Umm Al-Qura University |
MA in Economics |
~SAR 25,000–30,000/year |
Scholarships available; otherwise moderate fees. |
|
Saudi Electronic University (SEU) |
Master (Related Field) |
SAR 42,000 total (approx.) |
Blended programs; not Economics-specific but in business/finance areas. |
|
Private Universities (e.g., Alfaisal) |
MBA with Econ focus |
SAR 80,000–100,000/year |
Higher cost; limited economics-specific programs. |
1 USD ≈ 3.75 SAR, for currency conversion.
Most public universities offer scholarships that fully cover tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and even a monthly stipend.
If you’re accepted as a scholarship student, tuition is completely waived.
Self-funded options are available but less common for international students.
University Type |
Estimated Tuition (Per Year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Public Universities |
Free to SAR 30,000 |
Often free for scholarship students |
|
Private / Online Programs |
SAR 25,000 – SAR 45,000 |
Depends on university & program type |
Expense |
Estimated Monthly Cost (SAR) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation |
800 – 1,500 |
On-campus housing is cheaper or sometimes free |
|
Food |
500 – 800 |
Eating out is affordable in Saudi Arabia |
|
Transportation |
200 – 400 |
Depends on location and city |
|
Internet/Phone |
100 – 200 |
|
|
Personal Expenses |
300 – 500 |
Clothing, laundry, leisure, etc. |
Full tuition
Monthly stipend (SAR 900 – 1,200)
Free housing or housing allowance
Airfare (entry and return)
Health insurance
Free textbooks (at some universities)
Item |
Estimated Cost (SAR) |
|---|---|
|
Visa processing |
300 – 500 |
|
Medical checkup |
300 – 600 |
|
Flight (to/from country) |
1,500 – 3,000 (one way) |
|
Residency permit (Iqama) |
~500–1,000 (may be covered) |
Identify the universities that offer Master’s in Economics or Islamic Economics.
Decide between thesis and non-thesis tracks.
Check the specific language of instruction (usually English, sometimes Arabic for Islamic Economics).
Bachelor’s degree in Economics or related field
Minimum GPA (usually 3.0/4.0 or equivalent)
English proficiency test: IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (70–80 iBT)
Some may require entrance exams or interviews
Document |
Notes |
|---|---|
|
Bachelor’s degree & transcript |
Must be attested if from outside Saudi Arabia |
|
English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL) |
If program is in English |
|
Curriculum Vitae (CV) |
Include academic, research, and work experience |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Why you want to study Economics |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Usually 2 academic/professional letters |
|
Valid passport & passport-size photos |
|
|
Medical certificate |
Some universities require this |
|
Police clearance certificate |
For visa processing (varies by country) |
Most universities have an online application portal.
For international applicants, some use the Study in Saudi Arabia portal (by the Ministry of Education).
Submit all documents before the deadline (usually between January and May for Fall intake).
Many universities allow you to apply for a fully funded scholarship at the same time.
These include tuition, housing, monthly stipend, and airfare.
After application review, you may be invited for an interview (online or in person).
Admission decisions usually come between May and July.
If accepted, you'll get an official admission letter (also used for visa application).
Scholarship award letters are sent separately (if applicable).
Use your admission letter to apply for a Saudi student visa via the nearest Saudi Embassy or consulate.
Some universities assist with visa processing.
Arrive in Saudi Arabia before the semester begins (usually September).
Finalize registration, get your student ID, and move into housing.
Who it's for: International students (non-Saudis)
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend (~SAR 900)
Free housing
Health insurance
Round-trip airfare
Fields: Economics, Islamic Economics, Finance, and more
Application: Through the KAU postgraduate portal
When to apply: December to February (Fall intake)
Who it's for: International graduate students
Covers:
Tuition
Monthly stipend
Free accommodation
Airfare (entry and return)
Health insurance
Fields: Economics, Business, Public Policy
When to apply: Usually January to March
Who it's for: High-performing international students
Covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Free housing
Medical care
Airfare ticket
Fields: Economics (through College of Industrial Management), Finance, Energy Economics
When to apply: Fall intake (Feb–Mar), Spring intake (Sep–Oct)
Who it's for: Male Muslim students only
Covers:
Tuition
Monthly allowance
Furnished housing
Medical care
Airfare
Fields: Islamic Economics, Shariah, and related subjects
When to apply: Usually open year-round
Who it's for: International students applying to graduate programs
Covers:
Tuition
Monthly stipend
Housing
Airfare
Fields: Economics, Islamic Economics, and others
When to apply: Spring
Who it's for: International students applying to various Saudi universities
Benefits vary by university but often include:
Full tuition
Monthly allowance
Accommodation
Visa and travel support
Portal: studyinsaudi.moe.gov.sa
When to apply: Most active during Jan–Apr
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Strong academic record (GPA 3.0/4.0 or higher)
Good English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
Clean medical and legal record
Under a certain age (usually ≤ 30 for master’s applicants)
Ministry of Economy & Planning
Saudi Central Bank (SAMA)
Vision 2030 projects
Commercial Banks (e.g., Al Rajhi, Riyadh Bank)
Investment Firms
Islamic Finance Institutions
Aramco
SABIC
Energy consultancies (economists for pricing, demand forecasting)
Big 4 (PwC, Deloitte, EY, KPMG)
Economic think tanks or international organizations (World Bank offices, UN)
Universities
Research Institutes
Economic Analyst
Policy Analyst
Financial Analyst
Market Researcher
Data Analyst (with an economics background)
Consultant (economic or strategic)
Lecturer or Research Assistant (academic track)
Role |
Entry-Level |
Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) |
Senior-Level |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Economic Analyst |
8,000 – 12,000 |
12,000 – 18,000 |
20,000+ |
|
Policy Analyst |
10,000 – 15,000 |
15,000 – 22,000 |
25,000+ |
|
Financial/Investment Analyst |
9,000 – 14,000 |
14,000 – 20,000 |
25,000+ |
|
Academic (Lecturer) |
9,000 – 13,000 |
13,000 – 18,000 |
20,000+ |
|
Consultant (Big 4) |
11,000 – 15,000 |
15,000 – 22,000 |
25,000 – 30,000+ |
Learn data analysis tools (Excel, Stata, R, Python).
Get certifications like CFA, Data Analytics, or Policy Analysis.
Learn Arabic (if you're an expat) — it's a plus.
Network through platforms like LinkedIn, local economic forums, and career fairs.
