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King Saud University

Riyadh, 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia Public
#1 National #143 QS World #251 THE #90 ARWU
King Saud University campus
Founded 1957 40,000 students 7% international Urban $5k - $18k/yr

About King Saud University

King Saud University (KSU), established in 1957, is Saudi Arabia's first university and a prominent public research institution located in Riyadh. It has grown into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of programs across various disciplines and is recognized for its commitment to innovation, research, and scholarship. KSU consistently ranks among the top universities in the Arab world and globally.

Academics


KSU offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs in natural sciences, humanities, and professional studies, with many courses being tuition-free. The university's academic offerings span fields such as engineering, medicine, science, business, and humanities. The medium of instruction for undergraduate programs is a mix of English and Arabic, depending on the chosen major. KSU is at the forefront of research in Saudi Arabia, with numerous research centers and institutes dedicated to scientific and technological disciplines, emphasizing research that aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative.

International Students


King Saud University actively welcomes international students, who comprise about 7% of its student body. The university provides a range of support services, including academic advising, career services, health services, and counseling. On-campus housing options are available and often fully furnished, ensuring a comfortable living environment. While many programs are taught in Arabic, there are several bachelor's and master's programs available in English, particularly in fields like Accounting, Computer Science, Physics, and Engineering.

Campus & Location


KSU boasts a sprawling, urban campus covering 2,224 acres in Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia. The campus features modern classrooms, laboratories, research centers, extensive libraries, and state-of-the-art sports facilities, including a multi-purpose hall that can seat up to 9,400 spectators. Riyadh offers a dynamic city life with numerous cultural experiences, shopping, and dining options. The university also has a dedicated female campus with its own colleges, administrative buildings, and recreational facilities.

Career Outcomes


Graduating from King Saud University enhances global employability, with its alumni recognized across various industries worldwide. The university has strong industry connections and offers career services, including a Career Counselors' Certification Program in partnership with the National Career Development Association (NCDA). Notable alumni include influential figures in government, business, and science, such as ministers and successful entrepreneurs, reflecting the institution's role in producing global leaders. KSU's research focus on advanced technologies and strategic industries also contributes to a vibrant startup culture, with the university incubating startups and registering numerous patents.

Highlights

  • Saudi Arabia's first university
  • Leading research institution
  • Diverse academic programs
  • Welcomes international students
  • Sprawling Riyadh campus

Subject Areas

EngineeringMedicineScienceHumanitiesPharmacy

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

King Saud University photo 1King Saud University photo 2King Saud University photo 3King Saud University photo 4King Saud University photo 5King Saud University photo 6King Saud University photo 7King Saud University photo 8King Saud University photo 9

Programs Offered at King Saud University (20)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Physics & Chemistry

Bachelor Programs (10)

Bachelor of Science in Accounting

Accounting

Accounting
bachelor in accountingbachelor accounting programstudy accounting in saudi arabiabachelor in accounting in saudi arabiabachelor accounting riyadh
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

STEM

Architecture

Architecture
architecturekingsaudsaudi_arabia
60 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

STEM

Chemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering
english-taught bachelor chemical engineering in saudi arabiaundergraduate in chemical engineeringstudy in riyadhchemical engineering at king saud universitystudy engineering abroad
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
software engineer degreecoding degreestudy computer science in saudi arabiabachelor of computer scienceBS computer science
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Dentistry

STEM

Dentistry

Dentistry
bachelor dentistry abroadbest bachelor programs in dentistrystudy dentistry in riyadhenglish-taught bsc dentistrydentistry program
72 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature

English Language and Literature

English Language and Literature
english language and literature at king saud universitybachelor in english language and literatureba english language and literature in saudi arabiabachelor in english language and literature in saudi arabiaba english language and literature
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

STEM

Mathematics

Mathematics
babachelorbsbscmathematics
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

STEM

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering
bachelorbachelor of science in mechanical engineeringengineeringmechanicalmechanical engineering
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

STEM

Medicine

Medicine
bachelor medicine in riyadhmedicine bachelor abroadenglish taught bachelor medicine in saudi arabiabachelor medicine programbsc medicine
84 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

STEM

Pharmacy

Pharmacy
bachelorbachelor of science in pharmacypharmacyriyadhsaudi arabia
60 months English Full-time

Master Programs (5)

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering

STEM

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering
masters in biomedical engineeringmaster of biomedical engineeringmsc biomedical engineeringma biomedical engineeringgraduate program biomedical engineering
24 months English Full-time

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Business Administration

Business Administration
administrationbusinessmastermbasaudi arabia
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Civil Engineering

STEM

Civil Engineering

Civil Engineering
masters in civil engineeringmasters civil engineeringmsc civil engineeringstudy civil engineering in saudi arabiamasters in civil engineering in saudi arabia
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Environmental Engineering

STEM

Environmental Engineering

Environmental Engineering
engineeringenvironmentalkingmastersaud
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Information Technology

STEM

Information Technology

Information Technology
masters in information technologyinformation technology masters programstudy information technology in saudi arabiamasters information technology saudi arabiainformation technology program in riyadh
24 months English Full-time

PhD Programs (5)

PhD in Arabic Language and Literature

Arabic Language and Literature

Arabic Language and Literature
phd in arabic language and literaturephd arabic language and literaturestudy arabic language and literature in saudi arabiaphd arabic language and literature in saudi arabiaphd arabic language and literature riyadh
36 months Arabic Full-time

PhD in Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
chemistrydoctordoctoraldoctorateking
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Electrical Engineering

STEM

Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering
phd in electrical engineeringphd electrical engineering programstudy electrical engineering in saudi arabiaking saud university phd electrical engineeringelectrical engineering degree abroad
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Management

Management

Management
phd in managementphd managementdoctorate management in riyadhstudy management in saudi arabiadoctorate management in saudi arabia
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Physics

STEM

Physics

Physics
doctoratedoctorate physicsphdphd in physicsphd physics
36 months English Full-time

King Saud University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

6+ IELTS
61+ TOEFL
2.8+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Moderate (40-60%)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline October 31, 2026
Tuition (per year) $5k - $18k/yr
Teaching Language English, Arabic
Accreditation
Global Standardization and Accreditation Agency (GSAAA) Silver AccreditationAACSB (for College of Business Administration)Saudi central board for accreditation of healthcare institutions (CBAHI)College of American Pathologists (CAP)Accreditation Canada (AC)National Accreditation (NCAAA)International Accreditation (ASIIN)Administrative Accreditation (ISO)Education and Training Evaluation Commission

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Frequently Asked Questions About King Saud University

Common questions from international students considering King Saud University.

What is the acceptance rate at King Saud University?

King Saud University is classified as "Moderate (40-60%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does King Saud University cost for international students?

Tuition at King Saud University ranges from $5k - $18k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.

What is King Saud University ranked globally?

King Saud University holds the following rankings: QS World #143, Times Higher Education #251, ARWU #90, #1 in Saudi Arabia. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does King Saud University have?

King Saud University typically requires IELTS 6+ or TOEFL 61+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at King Saud University?

Yes, King Saud University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does King Saud University start its semesters?

King Saud University has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does King Saud University offer?

King Saud University offers 19+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is King Saud University located?

King Saud University is located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

How do I apply to King Saud University?

For specific details about King Saud University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does King Saud University offer?

For specific details about King Saud University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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