Checkout the Saudi Arabia Universities Acceptance Rate....
Apr 10, 2025 03:55:22
University |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
King Saud University (KSU) |
80–90% |
One of the largest and most accessible public universities in the Kingdom. |
|
King Abdulaziz University (KAU) |
70–85% |
Very large student body and wide range of programs. |
|
Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University |
85–95% |
Especially accessible in religious and Arabic-language programs. |
|
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
20–30% |
Very competitive, especially in engineering and science. |
|
Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) |
80–90% |
Women's university with a large student population. |
|
Taibah University |
85–95% |
High acceptance rate for local students, especially in non-STEM fields. |
|
Umm Al-Qura University (UQU) |
70–85% |
Competitive in Islamic studies, but broader programs have higher access. |
High School GPA – For undergraduates, your secondary school performance is crucial, especially in science and math subjects for STEM-related majors.
Standardized Tests – Most Saudi universities, including KSU, require:
Qudrat (General Aptitude Test)
Tahsili (Subject Achievement Test) – especially for science majors
Program Choice – Programs like medicine, engineering, and computer science are much more competitive than humanities or social sciences.
Nationality & Quotas – Saudi citizens usually have priority. There are limited seats for non-Saudis, especially for international scholarships.
It's very competitive.
Requires strong academic records, often with top grades.
You’ll need to apply through their Deanship of Admission and Registration.
Arabic proficiency may be required unless you’re applying to a program taught in English.
High grades (above 90% in most cases)
Strong scores on Qudrat and Tahsili
A well-organized application
For grad programs: good research background and recommendations
Estimated acceptance rate for international students: 5–10%
Very competitive, especially for fully-funded scholarships.
Priority given to applicants with excellent academic records and strong Arabic or English (depending on program).
One of the most generous in offering international scholarships.
Acceptance rate: 10–15% (varies by faculty).
Offers many programs in English for postgraduates.
Known for engineering and tech.
Highly competitive: acceptance rate for international graduate students is around 5–8%.
Strong academic background in STEM is essential.
Focuses on Islamic studies.
Acceptance rate: 3–10% depending on country of origin.
Open to male students only.
Excellent academic record (high GPA, honors)
Strong recommendation letters
Good Arabic (for most undergrad programs) or English proficiency (for grad/tech/science)
Relevant extracurriculars or research (for grad applicants)
Applicants from underrepresented or Muslim-majority countries may have an edge for some scholarships
Focus: Islamic studies, Arabic language, law, education
Why it's easier: Less competitive than KSU or KAUST for most programs (especially non-STEM).
Good for: Students interested in Sharia, Arabic, or religious studies.
Medium of Instruction: Arabic mostly, some English in technical departments.
Focus: Islamic studies, Arabic, education, engineering
Why it's easier: Offers scholarships for Muslim students worldwide, with good chances for Islamic-related fields.
Bonus: Located in Makkah, many international students are drawn to its religious significance.
Easier fields: Islamic studies, Arabic language
Focus: General programs (humanities, business, science)
Why it's easier: Located outside the main cities, so competition is lower.
Good for: Students looking for solid education in a quieter, mountainous region.
Scholarships: Available to international students.
Focus: Humanities, Islamic studies, science, engineering
Why it's easier: Less pressure compared to big-name schools like KAUST or KFUPM.
Bonus: It's in the Prophet’s city (Madinah), so it's popular among Muslim students.
Focus: Humanities, health sciences, business
Why it's easier: Largest women’s university in the world, with growing international presence.
Open to: Female students only
Applying to non-STEM majors (like education, humanities, Islamic studies)
Choosing universities outside of Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dhahran
Having Arabic language skills (for most undergrad programs)
Applying through the Saudi government scholarship portals early
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is required for admission into the Master's program.
A Master’s degree (or exceptional performance in a Bachelor’s program) is required for direct admission into the PhD program.
A strong academic record is essential. While KAUST doesn’t list a minimum GPA, competitive applicants usually have a GPA of 3.5/4.0 or higher.
TOEFL or IELTS is required if the applicant's first language is not English.
TOEFL iBT: 79+ (recommended 90+)
IELTS: 6.5+ (recommended 7.0+)
This may be waived if the degree was completed in English.
The GRE is not required, but submitting a good score may strengthen your application.
3 Letters of Recommendation from professors or professionals familiar with your academic or research work.
A well-written statement of purpose that outlines your research interests and goals.
Should include academic background, research experience, publications (if any), and relevant skills.
While KAUST doesn't officially publish an acceptance rate, estimates from applicants and academic sources suggest it ranges between 5% and 10%, depending on the program and applicant pool.
The university receives thousands of applications globally but admits only a few hundred students each year.
Full tuition
Monthly stipend (up to $3,000/month)
On-campus housing
Medical and dental coverage
Relocation support
