Study in Saudi Arabia for International Students (2026 Guide)

Studying in Saudi Arabia offers a promising path, but many students worry about high tuition, language barriers, and career prospects. These concerns make it hard to find an international destination that combines affordability, global recognition, and strong post-graduation opportunities. Saudi Arabia stands out with world-class universities, generous scholarships, and growing job prospects, making it an ideal choice for ambitious international students.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a global education hub under its Vision 2030 initiative, attracting international students with world-class universities, generous scholarships, and a rich cultural experience. In 2025, over 120,000 international students enrolled, with Indian students being among the top applicants (source: Saudi Ministry of Education). This guide will help you understand how to get admission in Saudi universities and explore ways to study in Saudi Arabia with scholarships, while also giving insights into life as an international student, so you can plan your academic journey with confidence.

• World-Class Universities: Universities like King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM), King Saud University (KSU), and King Abdulaziz University (KAU) are globally recognised and rank in QS 2026.
• Generous Scholarship Programs: Many scholarships cover tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends, and health insurance. There are also specific initiatives like the Saudi Arabia scholarship for Indian Muslim students.
• Cultural Immersion: Students gain firsthand experience of Saudi Arabia’s heritage, learn Arabic, and explore historic cities like Jeddah, Riyadh, and AlUla.
• Research & Innovation Focus: STEM fields, business, and healthcare benefit from cutting-edge research facilities.
• Strategic Location: Saudi Arabia serves as a gateway to the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, offering travel opportunities alongside academic growth.

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These universities are integral to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, focusing on high-quality education and research. Scholarships and funding opportunities make it possible for Indian students and other international students to study in Saudi Arabia with financial support.

Saudi Arabia offers Indian students a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career opportunities. To ensure a smooth application process, it's essential to be well-prepared and informed about the specific requirements set by Saudi universities and the Kingdom's regulations.

• Undergraduate Programs: Applicants should have completed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education or its equivalent with strong grades. Some universities may require specific subjects, particularly in science or mathematics.
• Postgraduate Programs: A recognised Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 is typically required. Certain programs may have additional prerequisites or subject-specific requirements.
• Age Limitations: For undergraduate admissions, applicants should generally be under 25 years of age. For postgraduate programs, the age limit is typically under 30 years.

• English-Taught Programs: A minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 70 is commonly required. Some universities may also accept other English proficiency tests like C1 Advanced.
• Arabic-Taught Programs: Proficiency in Arabic is necessary. Applicants may need to provide evidence of language skills or undertake an Arabic language test.
  

• Completed Application Form: Submitted through the university's official portal.
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Certified copies of all relevant academic records.
• Passport and Photographs: A valid passport with at least six months' validity and passport-sized photographs as per the university's specifications.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-crafted SOP outlining academic goals and reasons for choosing the program.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Typically, two or three letters from academic or professional referees.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Especially for postgraduate applicants, detailing academic and professional experiences.
• Medical Report: A recent health certificate confirming the applicant's fitness for study.
• Police Clearance Certificate: To verify the applicant's clean criminal record.
• Standardised Test Scores: Depending on the program, scores from tests like SAT, GRE, or GMAT may be required (kfupm.edu.sa).
  

Securing admission in Saudi universities is easier when you follow a structured approach. Here’s a step-by-step roadmap for how to get admission in Saudi universities for international students, including Indian students.

• Research universities that offer your desired program.
• Check QS World University Rankings 2026, faculty expertise, campus facilities, and international student support.
• Look for scholarships and financial aid options.
• Create a shortlist of 3–5 universities that best match your academic and career goals.

• Identify the required language proficiency tests:
  • English-taught programs: IELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL 70+.
  • Arabic-taught programs: Arabic proficiency test.
• Check if standardised tests like SAT, GRE, or GMAT are required for your program.
• Register early and prepare systematically to meet application deadlines.

• Draft a compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you want to study in Saudi Arabia, your chosen field, and your future goals.
• Secure Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from professors or employers familiar with your academic/professional work.
• Update your CV/resume, highlighting academic achievements, research, internships, and relevant experience.

• Apply via the university’s official online portal.
• Ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly (transcripts, SOP, LORs, test scores).
• Double-check deadlines and any additional university-specific requirements.
• Track your application status and respond promptly to university communications.

Once accepted, start the student visa application process. Universities typically guide students on the requirements, which include:

• Admission letter and scholarship confirmation (if applicable).
• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
• Medical certificate and police clearance.
• Proof of financial stability.

Pro Tip: A study in Saudi Arabia consultant can simplify the entire admission and scholarship process. They provide guidance on university selection, document preparation, deadlines, and maximise your chances of securing admission and financial aid.

• Tuition Fees: SAR 20,000 - SAR 45,000 (₹4,73,561 - ₹10,65,514) per year, depending on university and program.
• Living Costs:
  • On-Campus Housing: SAR 8,500 - SAR 16,900 (₹2,01,264 - ₹4,00,160) per year
  • Accommodation & Utilities: SAR 1,000 - SAR 1,500 (₹23,678 - ₹35,517)
  • Food & Personal Expenses: SAR 700 - SAR 1,200 (₹16,575 - ₹28,415)
  • Total Monthly Expenses: SAR 1,700 - SAR 2,700 (₹40,253 - ₹63,930)

Saudi Arabia remains more affordable than the USA, UK, or Australia, especially when scholarships are considered.

*Note: The amount may vary based on the currency exchange rate. Conversion rate: 1 SAR = ₹23.68.

Studying in Saudi Arabia is not just about academics; it’s about experiencing a rich culture, vibrant campus life, and modern infrastructure while pursuing a world-class education. Here’s what you can expect:

Most universities in Saudi Arabia provide secure, well-furnished, and often fully equipped on-campus housing for international students. Accommodation is safe, with separate facilities for male and female students, and in many cases, is included in scholarships such as the King Abdullah University Scholarship or King Fahd University Scholarship.

• Cost: SAR 10,000 - SAR 20,000 per year (₹2,36,780 - ₹4,73,562) depending on the type of room and campus location.
• Facilities: Most halls offer Wi-Fi, study rooms, sports facilities, and 24/7 security, creating a comfortable environment for both studying and socialising.

Off-campus options are also available, but living on campus ensures convenience, safety, and easier integration into campus life.

Saudi Arabia has become increasingly multicultural, welcoming students from all over the world. Universities host numerous student clubs, societies, and cultural activities that help international students integrate and build networks.

• Students can participate in sports, arts, debate clubs, and entrepreneurship societies, which foster personal development alongside academics.
• While enjoying campus life, international students are expected to respect local customs, traditions, and laws, including modest dress codes, gender segregation rules in public areas, and social norms.

This combination of a multicultural environment and local cultural immersion provides a unique global perspective, making your study in Saudi Arabia truly enriching.

Saudi Arabia offers incredible opportunities for travel and exploration. From the historic cities of Riyadh and Jeddah, the ancient Nabatean site of AlUla, to the vast deserts of Rub’ al Khali and pristine Red Sea coastlines, students have plenty to explore during weekends and holidays.

• Students can experience traditional markets, cultural festivals, and iconic landmarks, offering a balance of academic life and adventure.
• Studying here allows you to immerse yourself in a region that blends ancient history with modern infrastructure, making it a culturally rewarding experience.

Healthcare is a crucial consideration for international students. Most scholarships in Saudi Arabia provide comprehensive health insurance, covering medical consultations, hospitalisation, and emergency care.

• Coverage: Approximately SAR 13,500 - SAR 27,000 per year (₹3,19,654 - ₹6,39,308), depending on the scholarship and university.
• Students have access to modern hospitals and clinics, ensuring high-quality healthcare throughout their stay.

Graduating from a Saudi university opens doors to a rapidly growing job market driven by Vision 2030, which aims to create 1,000,000 new private sector jobs by 2025 - 2026. High-demand sectors include technology, finance, engineering, healthcare, and business, offering students strong career prospects. Graduates can pursue roles such as Software Engineer, Management Consultant, Finance Analyst, Mechanical Engineer, and Marketing Executive, with competitive salaries and opportunities for research, entrepreneurship, and professional growth in a dynamic, innovation-driven economy.

International graduates can also explore internships, part-time roles, and entrepreneurial opportunities, gaining experience in innovation hubs like Riyadh and Dhahran. With the kingdom focusing on global talent, your degree positions you for strong career growth in one of the Middle East’s fastest-growing economies.

Saudi Arabia offers high-quality education with affordable tuition and living costs, supported by scholarships that can cover tuition, accommodation, and health insurance. Graduates benefit from strong post-study employment prospects, driven by Vision 2030, which plans 1,000,000 new private sector jobs by 2026.

With LeapScholar, you can simplify your application process, secure scholarships, and navigate visa requirements with expert guidance. Join over 100,000 students who have successfully launched their international education journey with LeapScholar and make your dream of studying in Saudi Arabia a reality.