King Abdulaziz University
Saudi Arabia's Future, Forged in Knowledge.
📍 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
🏆 #2 in Saudi Arabia · QS World #163 · THE World #351 · ARWU #151
Quick Facts about King Abdulaziz University
- Founded: 1967
- Tuition: $6,000 – $20,000/year
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About King Abdulaziz University
Academics
KAU offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 33 faculties and institutes, encompassing social and natural sciences. Notable faculties include Engineering, Medicine, Economics and Administration, Arts and Humanities, Science, Marine Sciences, Meteorology, and Earth Sciences, with some specialized courses being unique in Saudi Arabia. The university emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to learning and innovation, with a strong focus on research, evidenced by its 30 research centers and over 200 research groups. Many of its academic programs have received international accreditation.
International Students
King Abdulaziz University actively welcomes international students, providing a stimulating learning environment and various support services. These services include reception at King Abdulaziz Airport, suitable housing, subsidized meals, healthcare, and academic follow-up. While specific diversity statistics for the entire international student body are not readily available, KAU aims to promote cultural integration through its diverse campus community and offers programs designed to assist international students in their studies. Scholarships are available for non-Saudi students residing outside the Kingdom, covering monthly stipends, accommodation, healthcare, and annual round-trip airfare.
Campus & Location
The main campus of King Abdulaziz University is situated in south Jeddah, a vibrant city on the Red Sea. The campus itself is described as a "city within a city," featuring modern architecture often incorporating traditional Islamic design elements. KAU provides internal transportation services, including free bus services, and dedicated parking spaces to facilitate movement around the campus. Jeddah offers a rich cultural experience, with nearby attractions such as the King Fahd Fountain, the historic Al-Balad district (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and the Fakieh Aquarium.
Career Outcomes
King Abdulaziz University is committed to aligning academic outcomes with labor market needs and fostering an entrepreneurial culture. While specific overall employment rates for international students are not provided, the university has an Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center that supports students with training, workshops, and startup incubation, leading to the incubation and graduation of over 100 startups in recent years. KAU also emphasizes industry connections and aims to empower students with essential skills for the job market. The university's strategy includes strengthening global competitiveness through innovation, digital transformation, and partnerships.
Information for International Students at King Abdulaziz University
King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia welcomes international students.
- No visa support offered
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
Admissions Requirements for King Abdulaziz University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to King Abdulaziz University:
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
Programs at King Abdulaziz University (20 programs)
King Abdulaziz University offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (9)
- Bachelor of Arts in Law (BA) — 48 months · Arabic
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, judicial systems, and various branches of law, preparing students for legal careers or further legal studies.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Legal Consultant, Judge, Public Prosecutor - Bachelor of Science in Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a fundamental understanding of the laws of nature, covering classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, and thermodynamics, fostering analytical and research skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Researcher, Data Analyst, Educator - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides students with a strong foundation in theoretical and applied computer science, covering areas such as algorithms, data structures, programming languages, and software engineering.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, System Analyst, Web Developer - Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores English language linguistics, literary theory, and a wide range of English and American literature, developing critical thinking and communication skills.
Field: English Language and Literature
Career outcomes: Teacher, Translator, Journalist, Editor - Bachelor of Science in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) (BSc) — 84 months · English · STEM
This comprehensive medical program trains future doctors in clinical skills, medical knowledge, and ethical practice, preparing them for a career in healthcare.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: Physician, Surgeon, Medical Researcher, Public Health Specialist - Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program educates students in pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, pharmacology, and patient care, preparing them for roles in community and hospital pharmacies or the pharmaceutical industry.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Clinical Pharmacist - Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including buildings, roads, bridges, and water systems, with an emphasis on sustainability and safety.
Field: Civil Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Construction Manager, Urban Planner, Structural Designer - Bachelor of Science in Dentistry (BSc) — 72 months · English · STEM
This program trains students in oral health, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases, preparing them to become skilled dental practitioners.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dentist, Orthodontist, Oral Surgeon, Dental Researcher - Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on architectural design, history, theory, and technology, preparing students to create functional and aesthetically pleasing built environments.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer, Construction Project Manager
Master Programs (6)
- Master of Science in Information Technology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on advanced topics in information technology, including network security, database management, cloud computing, and IT project management, preparing students for leadership roles in the tech industry.
Field: Information Technology
Career outcomes: IT Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Cloud Architect, Database Administrator - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
The MBA program provides comprehensive business education, focusing on strategic management, finance, marketing, and organizational leadership, preparing graduates for senior management roles.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Operations Manager - Master of Science in Environmental Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program addresses critical environmental issues through interdisciplinary study, including ecology, environmental policy, and sustainable resource management.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Policy Analyst, Sustainability Manager - Master of Science in Applied Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on advanced mathematical techniques and their application to real-world problems in science, engineering, and finance, enhancing analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Applied Mathematics
Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Data Scientist, Research Mathematician, Actuary - Master of Science in Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health, equipping students to address public health challenges and promote community well-being.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Administrator, Biostatistician - Master of Arts in Arabic Language and Literature (MA) — 24 months · Arabic
This program offers advanced study in Arabic linguistics, classical and modern Arabic literature, and critical literary theory, deepening understanding of Arabic cultural heritage.
Field: Arabic Language and Literature
Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Translator, Editor, Cultural Advisor
PhD Programs (5)
- PhD in Biomedical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary program combines engineering principles with biological and medical sciences to develop innovative solutions for healthcare, including medical devices, imaging, and tissue engineering.
Field: Biomedical Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Research Scientist, University Professor - PhD in Islamic Studies (PhD) — 48 months · Arabic
This advanced research program delves into various aspects of Islamic civilization, including Quranic studies, Hadith, Islamic law, and Islamic history, fostering deep scholarly understanding.
Field: Islamic Studies
Career outcomes: University Professor, Religious Scholar, Researcher, Consultant on Islamic Affairs - PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Electrical Engineering offers advanced research opportunities in areas such as power systems, electronics, telecommunications, and control systems, contributing to cutting-edge technological advancements.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Senior Electrical Engineer, R&D Specialist - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry offers advanced research in various chemical disciplines, such as organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, fostering innovation and scientific discovery.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist, Materials Scientist - PhD in Mechanical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Mechanical Engineering offers advanced research in areas such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, and robotics, pushing the boundaries of engineering innovation.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Engineer, University Professor, Aerospace Engineer, Automotive Engineer
Scholarships & Tuition at King Abdulaziz University
Annual tuition for international students: $6,000 – $20,000/year
Visit the university's financial aid page for the latest scholarship information.
Rankings of King Abdulaziz University
- National Ranking: #2 in Saudi Arabia
- QS World University Ranking: #163
- Times Higher Education (THE): #351
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #151
- Ranking tier: Top 200
Campus & Facilities at King Abdulaziz University
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- No disability support info
Key Highlights
- Largest university in Saudi Arabia
- Strong research and innovation focus
- Diverse academic programs, 33 faculties
- Welcomes international students, full support
- Located in Jeddah, Red Sea city
Fields of Study at King Abdulaziz University
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Medicine
- Science
- Business
Frequently Asked Questions about King Abdulaziz University
What is King Abdulaziz University?
King Abdulaziz University is a university located in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, founded in 1967. .
How much does it cost to study at King Abdulaziz University?
Tuition fees at King Abdulaziz University for international students range from $6,000 – $20,000/year.
What are the admission requirements for King Abdulaziz University?
Selectivity: Open (60%+).
How many programs does King Abdulaziz University offer?
King Abdulaziz University offers 20 programs: 9 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is King Abdulaziz University ranked?
#2 in Saudi Arabia · QS World #163 · THE World #351 · ARWU #151.
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