Checkout the Masters in Mechanical Engineering in Saudi Arabia....
Apr 04, 2025 12:52:36
Highly ranked in engineering disciplines
Known for research and collaboration with industry (e.g., Aramco, SABIC)
Offers scholarships for international students
Language: English
Internationally focused, graduate-only research university
Full scholarships for all admitted students (including stipend, housing, etc.)
Strong emphasis on cutting-edge research
Language: English
One of the oldest and largest universities in the Kingdom
Offers a strong Mechanical Engineering program
Increasing support for international graduate students
Language: Arabic & some programs in English
Known for offering fully funded scholarships for international students
Offers a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Active research in renewable energy, thermal systems, etc.
Language: English (some courses)
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
Good GPA (usually 3.0+ out of 4.0 or equivalent)
English proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS (especially for KAUST and KFUPM)
GRE: May be required (especially for KAUST)
Letters of recommendation
Statement of purpose
CV/Resume
Full tuition coverage
Monthly stipend
Free accommodation
Healthcare
Travel allowance (sometimes annual)
Notable scholarship programs:
KAUST Fellowship
KAU International Scholarships
KFUPM Graduate Scholarship Program
Most programs have fall admissions (September).
Deadlines are usually around January to March for international students.
Apply early to be considered for funding.
Location: Dhahran
Known for: Strong engineering focus, industry ties (especially with oil and gas), research output
Language of instruction: English
Location: Thuwal (near Jeddah)
Known for: Fully-funded graduate programs, world-class research, international student body
Language of instruction: English
Location: Riyadh
Known for: One of the largest and oldest universities in Saudi Arabia, strong engineering faculty
Language: Mostly Arabic, but some graduate programs are offered in English
Location: Jeddah
Known for: High international ranking, scholarships for international students, active research in energy and thermal systems
Language: Some master’s programs offered in English
Location: Riyadh
Known for: Private university, growing reputation in engineering and technology, modern facilities
Language: English
Location: Dammam
Known for: Offering engineering graduate programs with research opportunities
Language: English (for most postgraduate programs)
Location: Riyadh
Known for: Private, research-focused, collaborative projects with international institutions
Language: English
Must hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field (e.g., Mechatronics, Aerospace, Thermal Engineering).
Degree must be from a recognized university.
Minimum GPA: Usually 3.0 out of 4.0 (or equivalent, e.g., 75%+).
TOEFL: Usually a minimum of 79 iBT
IELTS: Typically 6.5 overall
Exemptions: You might be exempt if your previous degree was taught entirely in English (varies by university).
Not always mandatory, but highly recommended (especially at KAUST and sometimes KFUPM).
Strong GRE scores can strengthen your application.
Usually 2–3 letters from academic or professional references.
Should reflect your technical skills, academic performance, and research potential.
A well-written SOP is essential. It should cover:
Academic background
Research interests
Career goals
Reason for choosing the university
Include academic background, research/work experience, technical skills, publications (if any), and certifications.
Valid passport (for international students)
Official academic transcripts (translated into English or Arabic if required)
Degree certificates (attested copies may be needed)
Highly competitive
Requires strong academic background, research alignment, and sometimes GRE
Offers fully funded scholarships
Requires online application, TOEFL/IELTS, and good academic performance
May ask for GRE (optional but recommended)
May require you to upload translated and attested documents
Some Arabic may be needed for non-technical courses, but core programs often in English
Program Type |
Duration |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Thesis-based (Research Track) |
2 years (Full-time) |
Includes coursework + research + thesis defense |
|
Non-thesis (Coursework Track) |
2 to 2.5 years |
Mostly coursework, may include a project |
|
Part-time (if offered) |
2.5 to 3 years or more |
For working professionals, availability varies |
Duration: ~2 years (full-time only)
Students typically finish in 4 semesters
All programs are research-intensive and thesis-based
Duration: 2 years (full-time)
Offers both thesis and non-thesis options
Duration: 2 years (may vary slightly)
Coursework plus thesis required
Duration: 2–2.5 years
Thesis-based program, often with required seminars or presentations
Total Credit Hours: Around 30–36 credit hours
Coursework: 18–24 credit hours
Thesis or Research Project: 6–12 credit hours
Mechanical Engineering requires labs, simulations, and physical experimentation that are hard to replicate online.
Most Saudi universities emphasize research and thesis work, often requiring physical access to labs and faculty.
Known for e-learning and distance education infrastructure.
While Mechanical Engineering is not fully online, they may offer some theoretical or prerequisite courses online.
Worth contacting them directly to ask about hybrid or modular options.
Has e-learning infrastructure and offers some graduate-level engineering courses online.
However, full Mechanical Engineering Master's is in-person or blended at most.
SEU is the leading university for online education in Saudi Arabia.
Note: As of now, SEU does not offer Mechanical Engineering, but they may have related or foundational technical programs online.
International universities offering online M.Eng or MSc in Mechanical or related fields
Example: University of Leeds (UK), Purdue University (USA), etc.
These programs often allow remote study with occasional campus visits or fully online structures.
Master in Civil Engineering Courses and Universities in Saudi Arabia
Intake |
Starts |
Application Period |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
August / September |
December – March (most common) |
|
Spring Semester |
January / February |
August – October (less common, not always offered) |
Intakes: Fall and Spring
Deadlines:
Fall intake: Applications usually open in January and close by early March
Spring intake: Opens around August, closes by October
Portal: Online application through KFUPM’s graduate admissions system
Intake: Only Fall
Deadline:
Early deadline: October–December
Final deadline: January 15
Offers: Full scholarships for all admitted students
Note: Early application increases your chances of admission and funding
Intake: Mainly Fall
Deadline: Typically February–March
Some programs may have a Spring intake, but it’s rare for Mechanical Engineering
Intake: Usually Fall
Deadline: Around December – March
KAU Scholarship for International Students:
Applications open late in the year, close in March
Intake: Primarily Fall
Deadline: Typically announced between January – March
Online application through university portal
University |
Estimated Tuition (per year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
SAR 50,000–70,000 (~USD 13,000–18,500) |
Mostly covered by scholarships for admitted students |
|
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) |
SAR 150,000+ (~USD 40,000+) |
All students get full scholarships, no out-of-pocket fees |
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
SAR 40,000–60,000 (~USD 10,500–16,000) |
Public university, scholarships often available |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
SAR 45,000 (~USD 12,000) |
Offers fully funded scholarships for international students |
|
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) |
SAR 35,000–50,000 (~USD 9,300–13,000) |
Fees may vary by program type |
|
Prince Sultan University |
SAR 70,000–90,000 (~USD 18,500–24,000) |
Private university, fewer scholarships |
|
Alfaisal University |
SAR 90,000+ (~USD 24,000+) |
Private, scholarships limited but available for high achievers |
Full tuition waiver
Monthly stipend (SAR 900–1,900+)
Free accommodation or housing allowance
Health insurance
Yearly airfare tickets (in some cases)
KAUST Fellowship (fully funded, automatic for all students)
KAU International Scholarship
KFUPM Graduate Scholarships
Saudi Government Scholarships for international students from selected countries
University Type |
Estimated Annual Tuition |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Public Universities |
SAR 0 – 70,000 (~USD 0 – 18,500) |
Often fully funded via scholarships |
|
Private Universities |
SAR 70,000 – 90,000+ (~USD 18,500 – 24,000+) |
Tuition is usually not covered unless you get a merit-based scholarship |
Expense |
Monthly Estimate (SAR) |
USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
|
Accommodation (shared or university housing) |
500 – 1,500 |
$130 – $400 |
|
Food & groceries |
600 – 1,000 |
$160 – $270 |
|
Transport (local) |
200 – 400 |
$55 – $110 |
|
Internet & phone |
100 – 200 |
$27 – $55 |
|
Personal expenses |
300 – 500 |
$80 – $135 |
SAR 1,700 – 3,500 (~USD 450 – 930)
SAR 20,000 – 42,000 (~USD 5,300 – 11,000)
Item |
Approximate Cost (SAR) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
Visa and residency fees |
2,000 – 4,000 |
Some universities cover this |
|
Flight tickets (yearly) |
2,000 – 3,500 |
May be reimbursed or covered by scholarships |
|
Health insurance (if not covered) |
1,000 – 2,000 |
Often included in scholarships |
|
Books and materials |
500 – 1,000 per semester |
Depends on courses |
Cost Category |
Your Cost |
|---|---|
|
Tuition |
Free |
|
Housing |
Free or highly subsidized |
|
Monthly stipend |
SAR 900 – 3,000 (varies by university) |
|
Flights |
Usually covered annually |
|
Health Insurance |
Free |
Scenario |
1 Year Total |
2 Years Total |
|---|---|---|
|
With scholarship |
SAR 3,000 – 8,000 (just personal expenses) |
SAR 6,000 – 16,000 |
|
Without scholarship (public) |
SAR 70,000 – 110,000 |
SAR 140,000 – 220,000 |
|
Private university |
SAR 100,000 – 130,000 |
SAR 200,000 – 260,000 |
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM)
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
King Saud University (KSU)
King Abdulaziz University (KAU)
Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU)
Alfaisal University (Private)
Prince Sultan University (Private)
Consider:
Program type (thesis vs coursework)
Funding/scholarships
Language of instruction (mostly English for postgraduate)
Research facilities and focus areas
Semester |
Application Period |
|---|---|
|
Fall (Sept) |
December – March |
|
Spring (Jan) |
August – October (not all universities) |
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
Minimum GPA: Usually 3.0/4.0 or equivalent
Academic transcripts (in English or Arabic)
Degree certificate
Passport copy
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (2–3, academic or professional)
English proficiency test: IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (79+)
GRE score (optional for most, recommended for KAUST & KFUPM)
Note: All documents may need to be certified/attested and uploaded in the online application portal.
Create an account
Fill in your personal, academic, and program details
Upload required documents
Submit before the deadline
Public universities like KAUST, KAU, and KFUPM offer automatic scholarship consideration upon admission.
For others:
Check if there's a separate scholarship form
Be ready to submit financial statements or motivation letters if needed
Invite you for an online interview (especially KAUST)
Request additional documents or clarification
Take 6–10 weeks to send final decisions
Once accepted:
You’ll receive an official admission letter
The university will help you with the student visa process via the Saudi Ministry of Education
You'll also receive details about accommodation, orientation, and travel
Arrange your travel
Finalize health insurance (if not provided)
Attend university orientation
Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering
IELTS/TOEFL
GPA ≥ 3.0
Letters of Recommendation
SOP
GRE (optional)
Online application + scholarship (if needed)
What it covers:
Full tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend: SAR 20,000–30,000/year (~USD 530–800/month)
Free housing
Medical and dental insurance
Relocation support & airfare
Eligibility:
Bachelor’s in Engineering or related field
Strong GPA, TOEFL/IELTS, and (optionally) GRE
Research-oriented profile
How to apply:
Apply directly to KAUST’s Master's program — all admitted students are automatically considered
What it covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend (SAR 900–1,350)
Free on-campus housing
Medical care
Subsidized meals
Free textbooks
Eligibility:
Bachelor’s in Mechanical or related Engineering
TOEFL/IELTS
High GPA (3.0+ out of 4)
Research potential is a plus
How to apply:
Submit online application through KFUPM portal during Spring or Fall intake
What it covers:
Full tuition
Monthly stipend (~SAR 1,900)
Free housing
Health insurance
Two-way flight ticket annually
Eligibility:
Bachelor’s in a relevant field
Under age 35
IELTS/TOEFL
Strong academic record
How to apply:
Apply online via KAU scholarship portal (December–March)
What it covers:
Full or partial tuition
Monthly stipend (varies)
Accommodation (or allowance)
Basic medical services
Eligibility:
Strong academic record
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
IELTS/TOEFL
How to apply:
Apply to the program first; then apply for the scholarship or get considered automatically
What it covers:
Tuition waiver
Monthly stipend
Housing and basic needs (case-by-case)
Health insurance
Eligibility:
Good GPA
IELTS/TOEFL
Bachelor’s in Engineering
Check with:
Your home country’s Saudi Embassy or Ministry of Higher Education
Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM)
Bachelor’s degree and transcripts
TOEFL/IELTS (minimum 6.0–6.5 IELTS or 79+ TOEFL iBT)
CV/Resume
Statement of Purpose
Recommendation letters (2–3)
Passport copy
GRE (optional but helpful for KAUST & KFUPM)
Top roles:
Mechanical Design Engineer
Project Engineer / Project Manager
Maintenance or Reliability Engineer
HVAC Systems Engineer
Energy & Thermal Systems Engineer
Automation & Mechatronics Engineer
Industries hiring:
Oil & Gas (e.g., Aramco, SABIC)
Petrochemicals
Aerospace & Defense (e.g., GAMI, SAMI)
Renewable Energy
Automotive & Heavy Machinery
With top universities like KAUST and KFUPM leading major research programs, R&D roles are becoming more attractive.
Opportunities:
Research Engineer in materials, fluid mechanics, robotics, etc.
Lab-based roles in research centers or innovation hubs
Government-funded research projects in energy and sustainability
With a Master’s degree, you’re eligible to work as:
Lecturer or Teaching Assistant at universities and technical colleges
Lab Supervisor in engineering colleges
Step toward PhD studies (especially if you studied at KAUST or KFUPM)
Your Saudi-earned Master’s (especially from top universities like KAUST or KFUPM) is respected internationally, especially if the program was in English and research-focused.
You can pursue:
PhD programs globally
Engineering jobs in Gulf countries, Europe, Canada, or Australia
Licensing as a Professional Engineer (with added certifications like FE or PE in the U.S.)
Massive infrastructure, transportation, and smart city projects (e.g., NEOM, The Line, Red Sea Project) are hiring mechanical engineers for:
Smart systems and infrastructure
Sustainability and energy systems
Project execution and supervision
Saudi Aramco
SABIC
KAUST, KFUPM, KAU (research roles)
NEOM
Ma’aden (mining & metals)
Siemens, GE, Honeywell, Schneider Electric
SAMI (Saudi Arabian Military Industries)
Alfanar, Zamil Group
Role |
Monthly Salary (SAR) |
USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
|
Junior Mechanical Engineer |
8,000 – 12,000 |
$2,100 – $3,200 |
|
R&D / Lab Engineer |
10,000 – 14,000 |
$2,700 – $3,700 |
|
University Lecturer (with MS) |
9,000 – 12,000 |
$2,400 – $3,200 |
|
Project Engineer in industry |
10,000 – 15,000+ |
$2,700 – $4,000+ |
