Saudi Arabia is a study destination in the Middle East for international students pursuing degree programs. Students can explore Saudi Arabian universities, scholarship options, and lower-cost study options. However, tuition and funding vary by university, program, residency status, and admission category.
Studying in another country can be costly because students must budget for more than tuition. Accommodation, transportation, food, health insurance, and other personal expenses should also be considered when planning to study in Saudi Arabia. This article provides an overview of current study and living costs, but applicants should always confirm fees directly with their chosen university before applying.
Costs of Studying in Saudi Arabia
Academic Costs / Tuition Fees
Academic costs at Saudi universities depend on the program, degree level, institution, residency status, and funding category. According to the Saudi Ministry of Education, public-university scholarships for international students may be fully funded, partially funded, or paid. International students should therefore not assume that admission to a public university automatically includes free tuition.
Because fees differ substantially by institution and program, published university examples are more useful than a single national average. The figures below apply only to the admission routes or programs specified and may change for future intakes.
SAUDI ARABIAN
INSTITUTION | PUBLISHED UNDERGRADUATE EXAMPLE | PUBLISHED GRADUATE EXAMPLE |
|---|
| Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University | SAR 9,200 (about $2,453) per regular semester, including VAT, for the internal paid-scholarship route for eligible non-Saudi residents | Program-specific; for example, the Master of Public Health lists SAR 100,000 (about $26,667) in total, or SAR 25,000 (about $6,667) per semester |
| King Abdullah University of Science and Technology | No undergraduate programs | Admitted students receive the KAUST Fellowship, which covers full tuition and bench fees, a stipend, base accommodation, health insurance, and relocation support; exceptions apply to certain externally sponsored or partnership-funded students |
| King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals | SAR 20,000 (about $5,333) per year for non-Saudi undergraduate students before aid; eligible full-time international students may receive tuition assistance covering 10% to 100% | Check the relevant graduate program and admission offer; the cited scholarship page covers undergraduate funding only |
Other Academic Costs
Applicants should also budget for university-specific expenses such as application fees, insurance, deposits, student services, laboratory charges, and learning materials. The charges and services included vary by university and program.
For example, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology does not charge an application fee. In contrast, Alfaisal University charges a nonrefundable application fee of SAR 600, equivalent to about $160.
Costs of Living in Saudi Arabia
1. Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and a major center for higher education. It is home to universities such as King Saud University and Alfaisal University.
According to Numbeo’s crowdsourced estimates, the monthly cost for one person in Riyadh is approximately SAR 3,312.80 ($883), excluding rent. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is about SAR 4,169.60 ($1,112) in the city center or SAR 3,281.25 ($875) outside the city center. A regular monthly public transportation pass is approximately SAR 140 ($37), while a one-way local transportation ticket is SAR 4 (about $1.07). Students should check their university’s housing information because campus accommodation prices and scholarship inclusions vary.
2. Jeddah
Jeddah is a major port and commercial center on the Red Sea. It is also home to King Abdulaziz University.
According to Numbeo’s crowdsourced estimates, the monthly cost for one person in Jeddah is approximately SAR 2,969 ($792), excluding rent. The average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately SAR 2,499.69 ($667) in the city center or SAR 1,729.69 ($461) outside the city center. A regular monthly public transportation pass is approximately SAR 205.25 ($55), while a one-way local transportation ticket is about SAR 3.45 ($0.92).
Ways to Minimize Academic and Living Costs in Saudi Arabia
1. Scholarships for International Students
Obtaining a scholarship is one of the most practical ways to reduce the cost of studying in Saudi Arabia. However, funding packages vary. Some scholarships cover tuition only, while others may also include housing, health insurance, travel support, or a monthly stipend.
The KAUST Fellowship provides full tuition coverage, a stipend, base accommodation, health insurance, and relocation support for eligible admitted students. The KFUPM undergraduate scholarship offers eligible full-time international students tuition assistance ranging from 10% to 100%, subject to financial need, academic performance, and available funding. The IsDB Scholarship Programs may also be relevant to eligible applicants, but eligibility, study destination, and benefits depend on the specific scholarship scheme.
2. Part-time Work for International Students
International students should not assume that a Saudi study visa provides a general right to take part-time employment. Under Saudi labor regulations, non-Saudi nationals may not work without the required work permit, legal authorization to work, and an employment contract with an authorized employer.
Students should confirm their immigration and employment status with their university and the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development before accepting any paid work. Working without the appropriate authorization may violate Saudi labor and immigration rules.
With careful planning and thorough research, students can prepare a realistic budget for studying in Saudi Arabia. Compare program fees, scholarship conditions, housing arrangements, and living costs before selecting a university.
Hopefully, this article on the cost of studying and living in Saudi Arabia was informative. If you are interested, check out the KSA Study Guide and this list of Available Courses for International Students.
