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Study in Saudi Arabia

Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.

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About studying in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is on the Arabian Peninsula, and its universities and colleges welcome students from many countries. International students can look at undergraduate, postgraduate and, in some fields, research programmes, as well as shorter courses where institutions offer them. Study options span broad areas such as business, engineering, health, the sciences and the humanities, with energy, infrastructure and healthcare shaping much of the country’s economy.

Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam are among the places students often consider. Teaching is often in Arabic, so check the language of instruction and any language requirements for each course. Use this guide to explore subjects, typical intakes, costs, scholarships and visa steps, then check the details with each institution.

Why study in Saudi Arabia?

What makes Saudi Arabia worth considering depends on what you want from your studies. Its location on the Arabian Peninsula, the local language and the subjects on offer all shape the experience, alongside your budget and career goals.

  • Industry context: Energy, infrastructure and healthcare matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
  • Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Energy, Oil & Gas, Engineering and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, with options differing between universities.
  • Cities and campus life: Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
  • Culture and language: living in Saudi Arabia means everyday contact with Arabic and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.

Look closely at course content, entry requirements and student support, and think about where you would like the qualification to take you.

Top subjects to study in Saudi Arabia

If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Saudi Arabia’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.

Links to energy, infrastructure and healthcare mean that related courses may include practical projects or industry examples, although this varies by institution. Each subject has its own page for Saudi Arabia on this site, with its specializations.

Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.

Subjects to study in Saudi Arabia

Explore subject areas available for students planning to study in Saudi Arabia.

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Universities in Saudi Arabia

Explore universities in Saudi Arabia and discover study options for international students.

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Scholarships to Study in Saudi Arabia

Some international students in Saudi Arabia receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.

  • government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Saudi Arabia
  • universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
  • foundations, charities and international organisations
  • research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students

Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.

Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.

Intakes to study in Saudi Arabia

The academic year in Saudi Arabia commonly begins around August or September. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.

Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.

Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.

A simple planning checklist:

  • shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
  • prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
  • apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
  • allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation

Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.

Cost of studying in Saudi Arabia

Before you commit to a course in Saudi Arabia, work out the full cost of the programme, not just the first year’s tuition.

When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:

  • application and registration fees
  • course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
  • health insurance and any visa or permit costs
  • accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme

Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.

It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.

Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.

Student visa requirements to study in Saudi Arabia

Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Saudi Arabia requires for your nationality and course.

Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:

  • an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
  • a valid passport and passport photos
  • evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
  • health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
  • proof of language ability or previous qualifications

Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.

Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.

Cost of living in Saudi Arabia

How much you spend while studying in Saudi Arabia varies from student to student and from city to city. Costs in Riyadh can differ noticeably from those in Jeddah or Dammam and smaller towns.

The main costs to plan for are:

  • Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
  • Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
  • Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
  • Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
  • Insurance and health: any required health cover
  • Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life

Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.

Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.

FAQs about studying in Saudi Arabia

Why should I study in Saudi Arabia?

It depends on your goals. Saudi Arabia offers programmes across many subjects, a location on the Arabian Peninsula and study in Arabic (with some English-taught options). Students interested in energy, infrastructure and healthcare may find the local context especially relevant.

What subjects can I study in Saudi Arabia?

Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Energy, Oil & Gas, Engineering, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Business & Management. The subjects page for Saudi Arabia lists every subject available here with its specializations.

When should I apply to universities in Saudi Arabia?

Many programmes start around August or September. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.

How much does it cost to study in Saudi Arabia?

Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.

Do international students need a visa to study in Saudi Arabia?

Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Saudi Arabia.

Are scholarships available for international students in Saudi Arabia?

Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.

Where do international students live in Saudi Arabia?

Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.

Can I study in English in Saudi Arabia?

Many courses are taught in Arabic. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.

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