About the programme
KAUST admits graduate students to science, engineering and technology programmes on its Thuwal campus in Saudi Arabia. The Fall 2027 intake is open to MS, MS/PhD and PhD applicants. Applicants build an online application with transcripts, CV, a statement of purpose, referee details and English proficiency evidence. Separately, a Spring 2027 round is open only to PhD applicants, with its Round 1 deadline on 27 September 2026, which has already passed.
Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject from a recognised institution (for Master's entry)
- Master's degree in a relevant subject from a recognised institution (for PhD entry)
- At least 18 years of age on entry
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4-point scale (or equivalent)
- Official evidence of English proficiency (IELTS 7 overall with 6.5 per section, TOEFL iBT 95 overall with 4.5 minimum per section equivalent as listed, PTE 71, or Cambridge C1/C2 185); exemptions exist for degrees completed in-person in listed English-speaking countries or at KAUST Thuwal
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What they look for
- Strong academic record and research passion; holistic review of motivation and potential impact
What you will need
- Official university transcripts
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of purpose (about 750 words)
- Contact details of 3 referees (academic referees normally expected)
- Official English test score (if available)
- Passport page copy (Saudi applicants may provide national ID)
How to apply
- Check admissions timeline
- Review admission requirements
- Create an account and complete the application
- Upload documents
- Submit application; referees are contacted automatically and references are expected within seven days of the deadline
- Round 2 decisions released 25 February 2027; Fall semester starts 29 August 2027
Applications are submitted on King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)’s own site. Open Doors helps you prepare; it is not the official application portal.
From people who applied
No notes yet.
Source and verification
- Official source
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
- Last checked
- 10 Nov 2026, read automatically from the official page
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