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How to Apply to KAUST as an International Student

KAUST — King Abdullah University of Science and Technology — is one of the world's top research universities, ranking consistently among the best for science, technology, and engineering. Admission is highly competitive, but the application process is straightforward if you prepare your documents correctly. This guide covers the application process and document requirements.

KAUST Application Overview

KAUST admits graduate students (MS and PhD) from around the world. There is no undergraduate programme. Admission is based on academic merit, research potential, and supervisor matching. All admitted students receive a full fellowship covering tuition, housing, and a living stipend — there is no tuition fee for any admitted student.

Document Requirements and Translations

KAUST requires certified Arabic translations of all academic documents from non-Arabic-medium institutions. This includes: • Undergraduate degree certificate (translation required) • Complete academic transcript (translation required) • Any previous graduate degrees (translation required)

KAUST is accustomed to receiving applications from Russia, Central Asia, China, Europe, and the Americas. Their admissions team reviews translated documents alongside the originals.

Application Timeline

KAUST has two main intake periods: Fall (September) with application deadline typically in January–February, and sometimes Spring (January) for selected programmes. Begin gathering and translating your documents at least 3 months before the deadline to allow time for any complications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is GRE required for KAUST?
GRE scores are optional but strongly recommended, especially for applicants from countries without a widely recognised university ranking system.

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