King Fahd university of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM) is a world-class research institution in Saudi Arabia. With a focus on business, science, engineering, and computers, the university routinely receives high international rankings, especially in petroleum engineering and innovation.
A fully-funded opportunity for exceptional graduate students, both Saudi and foreign, the King Fahd University Scholarship is largely focused on thesis-based MS and PhD programs, with a small number of project-based MS spaces available.
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For more Master’s Scholarships Visit here: Master’s Scholarship
Key Features & Benefits
- At King Fahd University there are no tuition costs and a complete tuition waiver.
- A monthly allowance for living expenditures, usually between SAR 1,500 and 2,500 ($400 and $667 USD).
- Free on-campus apartment that is furnished and includes maintenance and utilities.
- Airfare: International students’ round-trip tickets.
- Free textbooks as well as dental and medical services.
- Subsidized meals, research assistantships (RA-MS/RA-PhD), money for research projects, conference travel, a secure setting, and leisure facilities (such as a private beach).
Eligibility & Admission Requirements
1. GPA
- Thesis-based MS or PhD: Minimum GPA 3.00/4.00 in bachelor’s (and master’s for PhD applicants).
- Non‑scholarship MS/PhD: GPA threshold is 2.50/4.00.
- Project-based MS and MBA: Minimum 2.50 GPA required.
2. Degree Requirements
- MS (thesis): 4 year BSc in relevant subject; PhD: MS in connected field, direct-entry PhD with 4 year BSc and GPA 3.00/4.00.
3. English Proficiency
- MS (thesis): TOEFL PBT ≥ 520 / CBT ≥ 190 / iBT ≥ 70; IELTS ≥ 6; Duolingo ≥ 105.
- PhD: TOEFL PBT ≥ 550 / CBT ≥ 213 / iBT ≥ 80; IELTS ≥ 6.5; Duolingo ≥ 120.
- Waivers available for KFUPM grads or degrees from English-speaking countries.
4. Letters of Recommendation
- MS & PhD: 2 academic references; MBA requires 3.
5. Additional Requirements
- MBA: bachelor’s in business/engineer/science, GMAT/GRE optional, calculus & statistics coursework, one year work experience, statement of purpose.
- Project-MS: Statement of purpose, non-refundable fee SAR 100+VAT.
Application Timeline & Deadlines
Based on 2025 intake :
- MS (Project-based): Application period closes July 15, 2025.
- MS (Thesis) & PhD: Application period closes July 31, 2025.
- MBA/Professional engineering: Subject to individual announcements.
Fields of Study
King Fahd University offers over 30 graduate programs including specializations in:
- Engineering: Chemical, Petroleum, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Aerospace, Industrial & Systems.
- Computing & Information Sciences: Computer Science, Engineering, Security & Information Assurance.
- Sciences: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Life Sciences, Geology, Environmental Sciences.
- Business: MBA, Finance, MIS, Marketing.
- Interdisciplinary programs: BS-X, project MS, engineering masters in sustainability, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.
Tuition Fees for Self‑Sponsored (Non‑Scholarship) Applicants
| Program Type | Nationality | Registration Fee (per semester) | Credit‑hour Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non‑thesis MS/MBA | Saudi | SAR 5,000 | SAR 500 |
| Non‑thesis MS/MBA | Non‑Saudi | SAR 7,500 | SAR 500 |
| Thesis MS/PhD | Saudi | SAR 5,000 → SAR 2,500 afterwards | SAR 500 |
| Thesis MS/PhD | Non‑Saudi | SAR 7,500 → SAR 3,750 afterwards | SAR 500 |
| (Min/max course load: 3–12 credit hours). |
How to Apply
- Prepare your documents (CV, degree certificates, English test scores, SOP, recommendation letters).
- Check program requirements and deadlines on the CGIS website.
- Register and submit online through the KFUPM CGIS portal.
- Track your application status via portal.
- Wait for decisions (typically within 1–2 months post-deadline).
- Complete acceptance and prepare for relocation to Dhahran for September start.
There’s even a helpful YouTube video walkthrough explaining this process.
Why Choose King Fahd University Scholarship?
- Top-tier rankings in petroleum/mineral engineering; global innovation leader.
- Strong research environment: over 40 research centers and vibrant faculty .
- International diversity: around 30 nationalities among graduate students .
- State-of-the-art campus: safe, well-equipped, with recreational and spiritual amenities.
FAQ – Your KFUPM Scholarship Questions Answered
1. Can bachelor’s degree holders apply directly for PhD?
Yes. King Fahd University offers direct-entry PhD for strong BSc graduates (GPA ≥ 3.00/4.00) in relevant fields—allowing completion in 4–5 years without requiring a prior MS.
2. Are international students eligible for full funding?
Absolutely. International applicants are considered for full scholarships including stipends, housing, airfare, and health coverage .
3. Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?
Yes, unless you graduated from King Fahd University Scholarship or another recognized English-speaking university, in which case it may be waived. Required scores: MS – TOEFL iBT≥70/IELTS≥6; PhD – TOEFL iBT≥80/IELTS≥6.5 .
4. How many recommendation letters are required?
- Thesis-based MS & PhD: 2 letters
- MBA: 3 letters.
5. What programs offer scholarships?
Thesis‑based MS, direct PhD, and some project-based MS programs; MBA and executive engineering may offer limited funded seats.
6. When can I apply for fall 2025?
- Project MS: by July 15, 2025
- Thesis MS/PhD: by July 31, 2025 .
7. How long does the application take?
Expect initial decisions around August–September 2025 for a September start .
8. Can I work while studying?
Yes. Scholarship includes funding for RA positions and university project work, allowing both financial benefits and academic growth .
Final Thoughts
The King Fahd University Scholarship is an unrivaled opportunity for ambitious students in engineering, sciences, computing, or business fields to earn a fully funded graduate degree in a globally respected institution. Key strengths include:
- No tuition cost & monthly stipend
- Accommodation, healthcare, airfare
- Rich research culture & international environment
To proceed:
- Confirm eligibility (GPA, English, degree)
- Prepare documents, SOP & references
- Apply by deadlines (July 15 or 31, 2025)
- Use online portal to track status
- Plan for relocation and cultural transition
