Consider the Middle Eastern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for those seeking a non-conventional study destination. Renowned for the world’s largest deserts, a thriving oil industry, and a deep Islamic heritage, the nation is adapting and even leading the fast-changing global scene. International students interested in innovation, technology, and a rich cultural experience will likely feel at home in Saudi Arabia.
This article will examine the best universities in Saudi Arabia for international students, so make sure to read the information below carefully.
Top Universities in Saudi Arabia for International Students
| INSTITUTION NAME |
TOP-RATED PROGRAMS |
| King Abdulaziz University |
Engineering, Pharmacology, and Biochemistry |
| Alfaisal University |
Business Administration, Medicine, and Engineering |
| King Saud University |
Clinical Medicine, Computer Science, and Biology |
| King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals |
Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Material Science & Engineering |
| King Khalid University |
Engineering, Sciences, and Medicine |
1. King Abdulaziz University
In Jeddah, King Abdulaziz University is one of Saudi Arabia’s top public universities. It bears the name of the country’s founder and is the flagship university. It was established in 1967, beginning with the Faculty of Economics and Administration, and through the years, it grew to offer programs in law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, information technology, communication and media, arts and humanities, and the sciences.
King Abdulaziz University has pioneered the Kingdom’s academic systems and higher education programs. International students can pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees here. They will gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, including the KAU hospital, sports clubs and stadiums, a convention center, and more.
2. Alfaisal University
Situated in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Alfaisal University, one of the best universities for international students in Saudi Arabia, is an ideal institution to study while immersed in the Kingdom’s affluent business hub. The private, not-for-profit institution admitted its first students in 2008 but has rapidly gained recognition globally. It now accepts international students from over 40 countries.
Alfaisal University even actively encourages diversity through scholarships for students regardless of faith, citizenship, or gender. This school boasts a modern campus but maintains a friendly and inclusive environment. It houses state-of-the-art teaching buildings, laboratories, student centers, cafes, and recreational spaces. It also has several clubs where students can gain more skills to enhance their rich academic experience.
3. King Saud University
King Saud University was founded in 1957 to respond to the professional and educational needs of Saudi Arabia as a young nation. Today, this top institution in Saudi Arabia is more than just keeping abreast of another nation’s academic culture; it is one of the trailblazers in higher education. International students can choose specializations from four colleges: community, science, health, and humanities.
Each college has several sub-departments for undergraduate to postgraduate programs. To help international students adjust to higher education in the Kingdom, KSU offers a preparatory year program that includes Arabic language classes. However, English language support is still available at any level.
4. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
- Admissions | Scholarships
- Top-Rated Programs: Petroleum Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Material Science and Engineering
The King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals is a public institution most regarded for its engineering, science, business, and management programs. Its most globally recognized subject is mathematics. In 2018, it was ranked fourth among 100 research universities worldwide that were granted US Utility Patents, and for several years, it placed among the top 100 universities under 50 years.
With all these awards, the KFUPM has established its presence on the international scene. The university was first established to study the country’s greatest resources—petroleum and minerals. Today, it comprises seven colleges in science and engineering and allied disciplines like environmental design, computer science, business, and general studies.
5. King Khalid University
King Khalid University, one of the best universities for international students in the country, was established as a merger of two universities in Southern Saudi Arabia. Beginning with only four colleges in 1998, it has expanded to nearly 30 colleges encompassing many subject areas, including medicine, engineering, education, humanities, and computer science. It is the primary institution for the growing academic needs in the Aseer region but is rapidly becoming one of the forerunner universities of the Kingdom as well.
This institution is said to be constructing a University City to consolidate university buildings in different locations. This single campus will include first-rate facilities for international students, including an 800-bed medical complex, art and sciences academic complex, sports complex, and student housing.
FAQs: Studying in Saudi Arabian Universities
Is Saudi Arabia a Good Place for International Students to Study?
Saudi Arabian universities are establishing a strong presence in prestigious global university rankings. The government’s generous support of higher education has rapidly paid off, and the country is presently leading a knowledge economy. The Kingdom is best regarded for programs in engineering, technology, and STEM subjects.
Students who wish to study business, education, tourism, architecture, and humanities will also find first-rate institutions offering them. These programs are usually taught in English to be more accessible for international students. They have a lot of opportunities to travel in Saudi Arabia. Besides being a picturesque country, it lies near equally beautiful places like Oman and Dubai.
Moreover, the Red Sea is a short drive from major cities and a favorite destination during breaks. The country’s healthcare, transportation, and utilities are generally very efficient, while universities usually arrange accommodation. All in all, students can expect around US$1,500 per month for living costs.
Can International Students Work in Saudi Arabia While Studying?
Regardless of nationality, international students and student visa holders are not allowed to work in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Your chance to work will only be after completing your studies and acquiring a diploma. Overseas learners are instead encouraged to focus on their programs and optimize the excellent quality of education offered by Saudi Arabian universities.
Can International Students Stay in Saudi Arabia After Graduation?
A degree from a Saudi Arabian university gives you a ticket to your chosen career in your home country or anywhere in the world. But if you decide to stay in the Kingdom after graduation, you can do so by securing a work visa and entering one of the many thriving industries here. Most work opportunities are in the oil and gas industry, but you can also pursue significant sectors such as construction, manufacturing, IT, healthcare, finance, education, telecommunications, and mining.
If you want to pursue a degree in Saudi Arabia, especially in engineering or medicine, there are many universities you can consider for admission. We listed some of the best institutions in this article, so we hope it can help you decide which one suits you best. You can get more information about the schools above through the links provided.
We hope this article on the best universities in Saudi Arabia for international students was helpful. To learn more information about studying abroad, check out our Study in Saudi Arabia and Available Programs for International Students sections!
