King Abdulaziz University (KAU), located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is one of the nation's premier institutions of higher education. It was established in 1967 as a private university, with the aim of spreading higher education in the western region of Saudi Arabia. It became a public university in 1974, under the supervision of the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Higher Education.
Academic Programs: KAU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. It has faculties in disciplines, including arts and humanities, economics and administration, science, engineering, medicine, maritime studies, and environmental design, among others.
Research and Innovation: The university is well-known for its strong emphasis on research. It has numerous research centers and institutes focusing on areas such as marine science, desert agriculture, nanotechnology, and Islamic economics.
International Collaboration: KAU has established partnerships with international universities and research institutions, enhancing its global presence and providing its students and faculty with opportunities for international exchange and collaboration.
Campus and Facilities: The university boasts modern facilities, including well-equipped laboratories, libraries, and sports facilities. It has a sprawling campus that accommodates a large number of students from across the world.
Rankings: KAU frequently ranks highly among universities in the Arab region and has gained recognition in global university rankings as well. This reflects its commitment to excellence in education, research, and community service.
Student Life: The university offers a vibrant campus life with numerous clubs, societies, and sports activities. It also provides support services for international students, making it easier for them to adapt to life in Saudi Arabia.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: KAU provides scholarships and financial aid programs to support both local and international students. These efforts help make higher education accessible to a wider audience.
Programs include Arabic Language and Literature, English Language and Literature, History, Geography, Sociology, Media and Communication, and Islamic Studies.
Offers degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Mathematics, Physics, Astronomical Sciences, and Environmental Sciences.
Includes Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, and Aeronautical Engineering.
Offers a comprehensive program in Medicine, along with specializations in surgical and medical fields, and related health sciences programs.
Programs include Economics, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Marketing, and Management Information Systems.
Offers degrees in Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, and Network Engineering and Security.
Includes Architecture, Urban and Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture, and Interior Design.
Offers programs in Marine Biology, Marine Physics, Marine Chemistry, and Marine Geology.
Focuses on Meteorology, Environmental Sciences, and Agriculture in arid environments.
Provides a law degree with courses in legal disciplines.
Faculty |
Course Program Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Arts and Humanities |
BA in Arabic Language |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Science |
BSc in Biology |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Engineering |
BEng in Mechanical Engineering |
5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Medicine |
Bachelor of Medicine |
6 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Economics and Administration |
BSc in Business Administration |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Computing and IT |
BSc in Computer Science |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Environmental Design |
BA in Architecture |
5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Marine Sciences |
BSc in Marine Biology |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Meteorology, Environment, Arid Land Agriculture |
BSc in Environmental Sciences |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Law |
LLB in Law |
4 years |
Covered by scholarships |
Faculty |
Course Program Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Arts and Humanities |
MA in Islamic Studies |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Science |
MSc in Chemistry |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Engineering |
MEng in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Medicine |
Master of Public Health |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Economics and Administration |
MBA |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Computing and IT |
MSc in Information Technology |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Environmental Design |
MA in Urban and Regional Planning |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Marine Sciences |
MSc in Marine Physics |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Meteorology, Environment, Arid Land Agriculture |
MSc in Arid Land Agriculture |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Law |
Master of Laws (LLM) |
2 years |
Covered by scholarships |
Faculty |
Course Program Name |
Duration of the Course |
Tuition Fees Per Year in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Arts and Humanities |
PhD in Arabic Language and Literature |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Science |
PhD in Physics |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Engineering |
PhD in Chemical Engineering |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Medicine |
PhD in Medical Sciences |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Economics and Administration |
PhD in Business Management |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Computing and IT |
PhD in Computer Science |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Environmental Design |
PhD in Architecture |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Marine Sciences |
PhD in Marine Biology |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Meteorology, Environment, Arid Land Agriculture |
PhD in Environmental Science |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
|
Law |
PhD in Law |
3-5 years |
Covered by scholarships |
KAU has a wide range of faculties offering courses in fields such as Engineering, Medicine, Sciences, Arts, Business Administration, and more. The university is known for its rigorous academic standards and its research output, particularly in fields like marine science, engineering, and Islamic economics.
One of the most appealing aspects of KAU for international students is the availability of scholarships. The university offers scholarships that generally cover tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and medical insurance. These scholarships are highly competitive and aim to attract academically talented students from around the world.
KAU has numerous international partnerships that facilitate exchange programs, joint research projects, and conferences. These partnerships enhance the educational experience by exposing students to global perspectives and networking opportunities.
The primary language of instruction at KAU is Arabic, but many graduate programs, particularly in science and engineering fields, are taught in English to accommodate international students. This makes it easier for non-Arabic speakers to adapt and excel in their chosen fields of study.
The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and IT infrastructure. The campus is designed to be a self-contained environment where students have access to all necessary amenities.
KAU offers support services to help international students adjust to life in Saudi Arabia. These services include assistance with visa and immigration procedures, an orientation program to introduce students to the campus and local culture, and ongoing support through the International Students Office.
Living in Saudi Arabia provides international students with a unique opportunity to experience Saudi culture and learn about the Islamic way of life. Jeddah, being a cosmopolitan city, also offers activities and amenities that are familiar to international residents, making it easier to adapt.
The university encourages students to engage in extracurricular activities. There are numerous clubs and societies that international students can join to meet peers with similar interests and integrate more fully into the university community.
Undergraduate Programs: Typically requires completion of secondary education with good grades. Specific requirements may vary depending on the faculty.
Graduate Programs: Requires a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a good academic record for master’s programs, and a master’s degree for doctoral programs. Additional requirements such as research proposals or previous research experience may apply, particularly for PhD admissions.
The primary language of instruction is Arabic, but many graduate programs, especially in scientific and technical fields, are offered in English. Non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction, usually through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS for English.
Commonly required documents include:
Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
Passport size photographs
Copy of passport for international students
Curriculum Vitae (for graduate applicants)
Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal (especially for graduate studies)
Recommendation letters (typically for graduate studies)
Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS)
Health certificate
KAU generally requires all applicants to submit their applications through its online system during the designated application period. Make sure to fill out the application form accurately and upload all necessary documents.
International students often apply for scholarships concurrently with their admission application. KAU offers scholarships that might cover tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance. Details about these scholarships and the application process can be found on KAU’s official scholarship portal.
Some programs may require specific admission tests or interviews. For example, programs in business or management might require GMAT scores, while some engineering programs might have specific technical aptitude tests.
Once all applications have been reviewed, KAU will notify applicants of their admission status. This can take several weeks to months, depending on the program and the number of applications.
If admitted, international students will need to apply for a student visa. KAU usually provides an acceptance letter and other required documents to support the visa application.
Upon arrival and visa formalities, students will need to register for their courses and participate in an orientation program designed to familiarize them with the campus, academic policies, and student life at KAU.
Main Intake: The primary intake for undergraduate programs is usually in the fall semester, with applications typically opening early in the year around January and closing around April.
Secondary Intake: Some programs may have additional intakes in the spring, but this is less common and depends on the specific faculty and program.
Graduate programs often have more flexible intake periods, with some accepting applications for both fall and spring semesters.
Fall Semester Applications: Generally open in the early spring and close by mid-summer.
Spring Semester Applications: If available, they typically open in the late summer or early fall and close in late fall.
Academic Records: High school diploma or equivalent with good grades, particularly in subjects relevant to the chosen field of study.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (Arabic or English, depending on the program). This might be tested through exams like TOEFL or IELTS for English-based programs.
Age Limit: Some scholarships or programs might have age restrictions, typically requiring students to be under a certain age (e.g., 25 years for undergraduate scholarships).
Academic Requirements: For master's programs, a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with a strong academic record is required. For PhD programs, a relevant master’s degree is necessary.
Research Proposal: Particularly for PhD applicants, a detailed research proposal that aligns with the research interests of the faculty or potential supervisors at KAU might be required.
Language Proficiency: For programs taught in English, non-native speakers must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. The specific score requirements can vary by program.
Recommendation Letters: Usually, two or three recommendation letters are required, providing insight into the applicant's academic and research capabilities.
Interviews: Some programs may require interviews, either in person or online, to assess the candidate's fit for the program.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
KAU Scholarship for International Students |
International students applying for Master's and PhD programs |
Covers tuition fees, provides a monthly stipend, free accommodation, health care, and return airfare once during the study period. |
|
KAU Internal Scholarship |
Saudi nationals or expatriates with legal residence in Saudi Arabia |
Supports tuition fees and may include other academic-related fees. |
|
KAU External Scholarship |
Non-Saudi applicants from outside Saudi Arabia |
Includes tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation, medical insurance, and airfare similar to the KAU Scholarship for International Students. |
|
Islamic Development Bank (IDB) Scholarship |
Students from IDB member countries studying specific subjects related to development |
Covers educational expenses, provides a living stipend, and includes medical and travel provisions. |
|
Joint Supervision Program |
PhD students wishing to conduct research under joint supervision between KAU and a foreign supervisor |
Typically includes a stipend, tuition coverage, and travel expenses for research periods spent abroad. |
Facility Type |
Description |
Cost (Approximate, if not covered by scholarship) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Housing |
Separate housing for male and female students. Rooms are typically shared, with essential furniture and utilities. |
Included in many scholarships; otherwise, costs vary depending on the type of accommodation but can range from $500 to $1,000 per semester. |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
KAU does not directly provide off-campus housing but Jeddah has rental options near the university. |
Varies widely by location and quality, generally from $300 to $800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city. |
|
Dining Services |
Multiple cafeterias and dining halls across campus serving a variety of meals. |
Costs are typically around $100-$200 per month for meal plans or pay-as-you-go options. |
|
Recreational Facilities |
Includes sports facilities like gyms, swimming pools, and courts for tennis, basketball, and more. |
Access generally included in tuition or housing fees. |
|
Health Services |
On-campus medical facilities available to all students. Services include general healthcare and emergency services. |
Free or at a nominal charge for students under university health insurance. |
|
Library and IT Services |
Extensive library facilities with study areas, book collections, and digital resources. Comprehensive IT support throughout campus. |
Generally included in tuition fees. |
|
Transportation |
Shuttle services available within the campus and for trips to local areas in Jeddah. |
Free or at a nominal cost for students. |
|
Security and Safety |
24-hour security on campus with regular patrols and monitored entry points. |
Included in accommodation fees. |
Diverse Disciplines: Students have the opportunity to study across a range of disciplines including sciences, engineering, medicine, humanities, business, and more. This academic diversity encourages a multidisciplinary approach to learning and innovation.
Research Opportunities: KAU emphasizes research, providing students access to state-of-the-art labs and research centers in fields such as marine science, nanotechnology, and Islamic economics.
Modern Infrastructure: The campus features well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, libraries with vast resources, and dedicated study areas.
Technology Access: Students benefit from comprehensive IT support and resources, including high-speed internet access and digital learning tools.
Housing: On-campus housing is segregated by gender, in line with local customs, and is designed to be comfortable and conducive to student needs. Housing often includes basic amenities and is sometimes covered by scholarships for international students.
Cultural Activities: The university organizes cultural events and festivals, which are great opportunities for international students to learn about Saudi culture and traditions.
Language Learning: Arabic language courses are available, which can help international students integrate better into the local community and enhance their overall experience.
Clubs and Societies: A wide range of clubs and societies are active on campus, allowing students to pursue interests in areas like arts, sports, technology, and volunteerism.
Sports Facilities: The university offers excellent sports facilities, including gyms, swimming pools, and sports courts. Regular sports events and tournaments are held, promoting a healthy lifestyle among students.
Medical Facilities: On-campus medical services are available to students, ensuring their health and safety. These services typically include general healthcare, counseling, and emergency services.
Safety and Security: The campus is monitored with security personnel and systems to ensure a safe environment for all students.
Student Councils: Student councils and bodies provide a platform for students to voice their concerns and participate in university governance, enhancing their leadership and organizational skills.
Career Services: The university provides career counseling, internship opportunities, and job placement services to help students prepare for their professional lives after graduation.
International Student Support: Specialized support services are available to assist international students in navigating visa requirements, accommodation, and cultural adaptation.
Career Counseling: Students can receive guidance on choosing the right career path, preparing for job interviews, and improving their employability skills.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular workshops and seminars are held on topics such as resume writing, job search strategies, and interview techniques.
Internship Opportunities: The university collaborates with industries and organizations to offer internship opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable work experience and professional exposure while still in school.
Annual Job Fairs: KAU organizes job fairs where numerous employers are invited to meet with potential candidates. These events provide students the opportunity to network with employers, learn about job openings, and make valuable contacts.
On-Campus Recruitment: Many companies visit the KAU campus to conduct interviews and recruit directly from the student body, offering convenient access to job opportunities for students.
Collaborations: KAU has established partnerships with leading companies and organizations in sectors. These partnerships often lead to research collaborations, guest lectures, and direct recruitment activities.
Alumni Networks: The university leverages its vast alumni network to assist current students in finding job placements and mentorship opportunities. Alumni events and meetings are regularly organized for networking.
Employment Rates: Graduates of KAU typically enjoy good employment rates, with many finding jobs soon after graduation or even before. The university’s strong reputation and the high quality of its educational programs make its graduates attractive to employers both within Saudi Arabia and internationally.
Diverse Opportunities: Due to the comprehensive range of academic disciplines at KAU, graduates can pursue career opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, engineering, business, IT, and education, among others.
Visa and Work Permit Guidance: For international students wishing to remain in Saudi Arabia post-graduation, KAU offers guidance on obtaining the necessary work permits and visas.
Career Planning: Specialized career services are available to help international students navigate the job market both in Saudi Arabia and in their home countries.
Program Popularity: Certain faculties like Medicine and Engineering tend to have lower acceptance rates due to high demand.
Student Credentials: The acceptance rate varies significantly depending on the applicant's academic performance, entrance exam scores, and other application materials.
International vs. Domestic Students: The university has different quotas and criteria for domestic and international students, which can influence acceptance rates differently across these groups.
Graduate Programs: Graduate programs often have more stringent requirements and lower acceptance rates, especially for PhD programs where a student’s research interests must align closely with the faculty’s expertise.
Academic Excellence: Strong academic records are crucial for admission to KAU.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction (either Arabic or English, depending on the program) is required, usually demonstrated through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs.
Entrance Exams: Some programs may require specific entrance exams, such as the GMAT for business-related programs or equivalent standardized tests relevant to other disciplines.
Address: The main campus of King AbdulAziz University is located at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
Features: The campus covers a vast area and is divided into two major sections: one for male students and another for female students, in accordance with Saudi Arabia's regulations on gender segregation in education.
Facilities: The campus is equipped with modern facilities including state-of-the-art laboratories, classrooms, libraries, sports facilities, and medical services. There are also multiple dining halls and cafeterias spread across the campus.
North Jeddah Campus: There is also a branch of KAU located in North Jeddah, which houses additional faculties and administrative offices.
Medical City: The King Abdulaziz University Hospital, which is part of the university’s medical facilities, is located near the main campus. This hospital not only serves as a teaching hospital for the medical students but also provides comprehensive medical services to the public.
