King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Innovating for a sustainable future.
📍 Thuwal, Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦
🏆 #1 in Saudi Arabia · ARWU #201
Quick Facts about King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- Type: Public
- Students: 1,741
- International: 64%
- Campus: Rural
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Academics
KAUST offers Master's and Ph.D. degrees across 17 STEM disciplines, emphasizing rigorous academic training and collaboration with leading researchers in state-of-the-art facilities. The university's research is organized into three academic divisions: Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering (BESE), Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Science and Engineering (CEMSE), and Physical Science and Engineering (PSE). Notable programs include Bioscience, Applied Mathematics and Computational Science, Computer Science, and Electrical and Computer Engineering, all fostering interdisciplinary approaches to complex challenges. KAUST is recognized for its high research output and impact, with strong rankings in fields like Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, and Materials Science.
International Students
KAUST is a truly international institution, with over 120 nationalities represented on campus and 64% of its student body comprising international students. All programs are taught in English, and the university provides comprehensive support for international students, including relocation assistance. Student life is vibrant and multicultural, with over 80 student clubs, cultural festivals, and extensive recreational facilities promoting cross-cultural exchange and a strong sense of community. The university offers a comprehensive funding package for admitted students, covering tuition, a monthly living allowance, housing, medical and dental coverage, and relocation support.
Campus & Location
Located on the shores of the Red Sea near Thuwal, KAUST's campus is a modern, integrated community about a 45-minute drive north of Jeddah. The campus spans over 36 square kilometers and includes a marine sanctuary, museum, and advanced research facilities. It is a self-contained community with university-provided housing, a health center, supermarkets, recreation centers, a golf course, cinema, various dining options, and even an elementary and secondary school. Jeddah's international airport provides connections to over 150 global destinations, and students receive full support for their relocation.
Career Outcomes
KAUST boasts a high alumni employment rate of 93%. The university is committed to building industry connections and fostering a startup culture, aiming to catalyze the diversification of the Saudi economy through innovation and partnerships. Career services support students in finding diverse opportunities, from academic research to entrepreneurial ventures. Many international alumni choose to stay and work in Saudi Arabia, with close to 30% remaining in the Kingdom. KAUST's focus on high-impact research prepares graduates to become scientific and technological leaders addressing global challenges.
Information for International Students at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia welcomes international students, with 64% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 64% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to King Abdullah University of Science and Technology:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- GPA minimum: 3
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: January 17, 2026 (Fall 2026 Round 2), October 1, 2025 (Spring 2026 Round 1)
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Programs at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (2 programs)
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offers 2 programs across PhD levels.
PhD Programs (2)
- Mechanical Engineering (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
Covers a wide range of mechanical engineering principles, including solid mechanics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and dynamics.
Field: Mechanical Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical engineer, design engineer, research and development in various industries (automotive, aerospace, energy)
Deadline: typically early January for Fall admission - Applied Physics (PhD) — 36 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
Applies principles of physics to develop new technologies and solve practical problems in areas like optics, condensed matter, and energy.
Field: Applied Physics
Career outcomes: Research physicist, optical engineer, materials scientist, academic
Deadline: typically early January for Fall admission
Scholarships & Tuition at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
✅ King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- National Ranking: #1 in Saudi Arabia
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #201
- Ranking tier: Top 200
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Rural
Key Highlights
- Graduate-level research university
- Focus on global challenges
- High research output, impact
- Highly international student body
- Comprehensive student funding
- Vibrant, multicultural campus
Accreditation
- ISO/IEC 17025
- Joint Commission International (JCI)
Fields of Study at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- Engineering
- Sciences
- Computer Science
- Environmental Science
- Mathematics
Notable Alumni
- Dr. Amal Al Ghamdi
- Dr. Fahad Al-Sulaiman
- Dr. Mohammed Al-Shehri
- Nora Deyarmin
- Mohamed Slim Alouini
Frequently Asked Questions about King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
What is King Abdullah University of Science and Technology?
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology is a public university located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. It has approximately 1,741 students, with 64% being international students.
What are the admission requirements for King Abdullah University of Science and Technology?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. GPA minimum: 3. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: January 17, 2026 (Fall 2026 Round 2), October 1, 2025 (Spring 2026 Round 1).
What language are courses taught in at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology?
Courses at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offer?
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offers 2 programs: 0 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 2 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is King Abdullah University of Science and Technology ranked?
#1 in Saudi Arabia · ARWU #201.
Does King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offer scholarships?
Yes, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does King Abdullah University of Science and Technology provide visa support?
Yes, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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