King Khalid University

Quick Facts about King Khalid University

• Founded: 1998
• Type: Public
• Students: 61,708
• International: 15%
• Campus: Multiple Campuses
• Tuition: $2,500 – $9,000/year
• Language: Arabic, English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
• Intakes: Fall, Spring

About King Khalid University

Academics

King Khalid University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 29 colleges and nine research centers. Key faculties include Sharia and Fundamentals of Religion, Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Sciences, Languages and Translation, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Applied Medical Sciences. The university emphasizes a comprehensive educational approach, providing programs in applied, scientific, humanities, and health disciplines, with a commitment to academic excellence and research. Notable programs include various engineering specializations, computer science, information systems, and a Bachelor of Arts in English that focuses on language, literature, linguistics, and translation.

International Students

KKU demonstrates a strong international focus, offering dedicated support services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs. While many programs are primarily taught in Arabic, the university does offer English-taught programs, particularly at the postgraduate level and in certain scientific fields. For admission to English-taught programs, an IELTS score of not less than 5 or an equivalent is typically required. The university actively offers fully funded scholarships for Master's and Ph.D. programs to both Saudi nationals and non-Saudi residents, which can cover tuition, monthly stipends, on-campus housing, and healthcare services.

Campus & Location

King Khalid University's main campus, known as University City, is situated in Abha, the capital of the Aseer region, which is known for its natural beauty and mild climate. The campus features modern facilities, including colleges, administrative buildings, activity areas, and a medical city. Abha itself offers a blend of traditional values and modern amenities, with attractions such as Aseer National Park, Abha Palace Theme Park, and various markets. Transportation to and from Abha Airport (AHB) to the university is convenient, with taxi services readily available.

Career Outcomes

King Khalid University is committed to enhancing student employability and bridging the gap between academic learning and labor market requirements. The university provides comprehensive career services, including career counseling, job placement assistance, and internship opportunities through its Entrepreneurship Center and career services department. They also organize career fairs and networking events to connect students with potential employers. KKU collaborates with the Abha Chamber of Commerce on training agreements to improve human resources in the Asir region and establish business incubators and accelerators, fostering a supportive environment for startups.

Information for International Students at King Khalid University

King Khalid University in Abha, Saudi Arabia welcomes international students, with 15% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 15% of students are international
• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: Arabic, English

Admissions Requirements for King Khalid University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to King Khalid University:

• IELTS minimum: 5
• TOEFL minimum: 79
• Duolingo minimum: 105
• GPA minimum: 2.9
• GRE required
• GMAT required
• Selectivity: Open (60%+)

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Programs at King Khalid University (8 programs)

King Khalid University offers 8 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (3)

• برنامج بكالوريوس العلوم في نظم المعلومات الإدارية مسار نظم المعلومات الإدارية (Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems - MIS Track) (BSc) — Arabic · STEM
  Integrates business knowledge with information technology to manage and analyze data.
  Field: Management Information Systems
• برنامج بكالوريوس العلوم في المحاسبة (Bachelor of Science in Accounting) (BSc) — Arabic
  Focuses on financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
  Field: Accounting
• برنامج البكالوريوس في الإدارة المالية (Bachelor's Program in Financial Management) (Bachelor) — Arabic
  Provides knowledge and skills in financial planning, investment, and risk management.
  Field: Financial Management

Master Programs (2)

• الماجستير الأكاديمي في إدارة الأعمال (Academic Master in Business Administration) (Master) — Arabic
  Advanced study in general business management.
  Field: Business Administration
• ماجستير المحاسبة المهنية (Professional Master of Accounting) (Master) — Arabic
  Provides advanced knowledge and skills for a career in professional accounting.
  Field: Accounting

PhD Programs (1)

• دكتوراه الفلسفة في إدارة الأعمال (Doctor of Philosophy in Business Administration) (PhD) — Arabic
  A research-oriented program focusing on advanced theories and research methodologies in business.
  Field: Business Administration

Scholarships & Tuition at King Khalid University

Annual tuition for international students: $2,500 – $9,000/year

✅ King Khalid University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of King Khalid University

• National Ranking: #1 in Saudi Arabia
• QS World University Ranking: #535
• Times Higher Education (THE): #251
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #801
• Ranking tier: Unranked
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at King Khalid University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• No disability support info
• Campus type: Multiple Campuses

Key Highlights

• Large, esteemed Saudi university
• Diverse academic programs offered
• Strong international student focus
• Offers fully funded scholarships
• Key contributor to Vision 2030

Accreditation

• Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET
• Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET
• Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) / National Center of Academic Accreditation & evaluation (NCAAA)
• Global Skills and Academic Accreditation Association (GSAAA)

Fields of Study at King Khalid University

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Science
• Education
• Islamic Studies

Notable Alumni

• Saeed bin Naser Alghamdi
• Ahmed Mater
• Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah
• Abdullah Thabit
• Faris al-Zahrani

Frequently Asked Questions about King Khalid University

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