King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
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We do not process applications, and we charge no fee for this information.
Deadlines, eligibility criteria, and funding amounts change without notice, so verify every detail on the official KFUPM CGIS portal (cgis.kfupm.edu.sa) before applying.
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King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
Last updated: November 2026. Official source: KFUPM College of Graduate and Interdisciplinary Studies.
King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) invites outstanding international students to apply for its fully funded graduate scholarships for the 2026 intake.
Located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, KFUPM is globally recognised for its science, engineering, and business programs, ranking 4th worldwide for US utility patents among universities.
The scholarship supports Master’s (thesis and project-based) and PhD programs, covering tuition, housing, stipends, and medical care.
Consequently, this is a premier opportunity for Indian students to pursue advanced research in a world-class academic environment without financial burden.
Below, this guide explains the funding structure, strict eligibility rules, application steps, and practical notes for Indian applicants.
Table of Contents
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
- Programme at a Glance
- About KFUPM and the Scholarship
- Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?
- Eligibility Criteria
- Required Documents
- How to Apply Step by Step
- Deadlines and Selection Timeline
- Special Notes for Indian Applicants
- FAQs for Indian Applicants
Programme at a Glance
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
First, let us examine the core facts of this scholarship pathway.
This summary table highlights the key details, funding structure, and critical deadlines for the 2026 intake.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | KFUPM Graduate Scholarships 2026 |
| Host Institution | King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) |
| Location | Dhahran, Saudi Arabia |
| Degree Level | Master’s (Thesis & Project-Based) and PhD |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded (Full Tuition Waiver + Stipend + Benefits) |
| Eligible Nationalities | National and International Students |
| Application Deadline | December 15, 2026 |
| Official Portal | cgis.kfupm.edu.sa |
About KFUPM and the Scholarship
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
KFUPM is a public university established in 1963, consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Middle East and North Africa.
The university’s College of Graduate and Interdisciplinary Studies (CGIS) administers the scholarship program.
Specifically, KFUPM offers 32 Master’s programs and 11 Doctoral programs across 27 disciplines, including engineering, sciences, and business administration.
Furthermore, the university maintains strong research partnerships with MIT, Stanford, Caltech, and Cambridge University.
Therefore, scholars gain access to a highly collaborative and research-intensive environment.
Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
KFUPM provides a comprehensive funding package for all scholarship recipients.
Core Financial Benefits
The scholarship includes a full tuition waiver for the entire duration of the program.
Additionally, recipients receive a generous monthly stipend, the amount of which is determined by the student’s scholarship category.
For self-sponsored students, the fee structure is different, but scholarship holders enjoy complete tuition coverage.
Living and Campus Benefits
Free, fully furnished, air-conditioned on-campus housing is provided, including utilities and maintenance.
International students also receive air tickets to and from KFUPM.
Moreover, the scholarship covers medical and dental care, and provides subsidized meals across campus.
Academic and Research Perks
Scholars have the opportunity to work as Research Assistants (RA) on funded projects, earning additional financial rewards.
Funding is available to present research at conferences, subject to specific conditions.
Free textbooks and access to the main library and department resource centers are also included.
Eligibility Criteria
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
To begin with, applicants must meet the strict academic and professional requirements set by KFUPM.
Academic Background
Candidates must hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, or a related field from a recognised institution.
For MS programs, a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale is required.
However, scholarship recipients typically need a GPA above 3.2 on a 4.0 scale to be competitive.
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English proficiency through standardised tests.
The minimum TOEFL score is 68 iBT for MS programs and 79 iBT for PhD programs.
Alternatively, an IELTS score of 6.0 or above is accepted, though some sources indicate a minimum of 6.5.
Duolingo (minimum 120) is also accepted.
Notably, the English requirement is waived for graduates of KFUPM and for those who completed their degree in an English-speaking country.
Standardised Tests
A GRE General score is required, with a minimum Quantitative score of 700 and an Analytical score of 3.0.
For MBA applicants, a GMAT score is mandatory.
Required Documents
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
Consequently, students must gather specific documents before initiating the online process.
Mandatory Documents
A copy of your passport (for international applicants) is mandatory.
Complete official transcripts for your BS degree (and MS degree, if applying to PhD) are required.
A Statement of Purpose (one-page essay focusing on career and research goals) is essential.
Recommendation letters from three professors must be submitted through the online system.
For MBA applicants, GMAT scores are required.
Supporting Documents
Degree certificates for BS and MS (if applicable) are needed for the final admission decision.
TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores must be submitted.
An acceptable GRE General score is required.
Upon approval, original or certified copies of degree certificates and transcripts must be sent via postal mail.
How to Apply Step by Step
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
Online Application Process
To begin the application, visit the KFUPM CGIS portal and create an account.
Next, complete the online application form and upload all mandatory documents.
After that, submit the names and contact details of your three recommenders through the online system.
Then, pay the application fee, if applicable.
Finally, submit the application before the deadline of December 15, 2026.
Post-Submission Steps
After submitting the online application, you must upload additional documents to the KFUPM Upload System using your Login ID and PIN.
If selected, you will need to send original or certified copies of your documents by postal mail.
Deadlines and Selection Timeline
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
KFUPM enforces a strict deadline for the 2026 intake.
| Stage | Date / Period | Note for Indian Applicants (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | December 15, 2026 | Submit by December 14 IST to avoid last-minute portal issues |
| MS (Thesis) & PhD Application Window | May 20 – June 30, 2026 (Closed) | This was for the previous cycle |
| MS (Project-Based) Application Window | June 10 – July 11, 2026 (Closed) | This was for the previous cycle |
| Program Start | Fall 2026 (September) | Begin visa processing immediately after admission |
Special Notes for Indian Applicants
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
Real Value of the Stipend
While KFUPM does not publicly specify the exact monthly stipend, typical graduate stipends in Saudi Arabia range from 1,000 to 1,500 USD per month (approximately ₹85,000 to ₹1.27 lakh).
This amount is sufficient to cover personal expenses, considering that housing, medical care, and tuition are already covered.
Keep in mind that exchange rates fluctuate, so treat this as indicative only.
Visa and Travel Planning
Once selected, Indian nationals must apply for a Saudi student visa.
The scholarship includes air tickets to and from KFUPM, but you must arrange the visa appointment promptly.
Cultural and Academic Adjustment
KFUPM is a highly diverse campus with students from over 30 nationalities, offering a supportive environment for international scholars.
The university provides on-campus recreational facilities, including a private beach, which can help with the transition.
Beware of Unauthorised Agents
No third-party website or agent can submit a KFUPM application.
Use only the official CGIS portal linked from the KFUPM website.
FAQs for Indian Applicants
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
Eligibility and Academic Background
1. I have a B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering. Can I apply for the KFUPM scholarship?
Yes, a four-year Bachelor’s degree in engineering is a core requirement. You can apply for MS or PhD programs in relevant disciplines like Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering.
Ensure your GPA meets the competitive threshold of 3.2/4.0.
2. Do I need to take IELTS or TOEFL if my previous degree was in English?
The English proficiency test is waived for graduates of KFUPM and for those who completed their degree in an English-speaking country (USA, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand).
An English-medium degree from India is not automatically waived, so you will likely need to submit a TOEFL (68 iBT for MS) or IELTS (6.0+) score.
3. What is the minimum GPA required for the scholarship?
The minimum GPA for admission is 3.00 on a 4.00 scale.
However, scholarship recipients typically need a GPA above 3.2/4.0 to be competitive.
Scholarship Value and Application
4. What is the real value of the monthly stipend in Indian rupees?
KFUPM does not publicly specify the exact stipend amount, but typical graduate stipends in Saudi Arabia range from 1,000 to 1,500 USD per month (approximately ₹85,000 to ₹1.27 lakh).
This is sufficient for personal expenses, as tuition, housing, and medical care are covered.
5. Does the scholarship cover travel and accommodation?
Yes, the scholarship includes free on-campus housing with utilities and maintenance.
International students also receive air tickets to and from KFUPM.
6. Is there an application fee?
The official KFUPM website does not explicitly state an application fee for graduate admissions.
Check the CGIS portal during the application process for any specific fee requirements.
Submission and Visa Logistics
7. Where do I submit my application?
All applications must be submitted through the official KFUPM CGIS online portal at cgis.kfupm.edu.sa.
Never submit your application to third-party websites or agents.
8. What is the deadline for Indian applicants?
The deadline for the 2026 intake is December 15, 2026.
Treat December 14 IST as your personal deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
9. Do I need to submit a GRE score?
Yes, an acceptable GRE General score is required for most programs. The minimum Quantitative score is 700, and the minimum Analytical score is 3.0.
For MBA applicants, a GMAT score is required instead.
10. How competitive is the KFUPM scholarship for Indian students?
The programme is highly competitive, with over 7,000 applications received for graduate studies.
Indian applicants should focus on a strong GPA (above 3.2), a compelling Statement of Purpose, and excellent recommendation letters to stand out.
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
King Fahd University Scholarships 2026
