How do you feel about pursuing higher education in Saudi Arabia? International students can study in Saudi Arabia through fully funded scholarships, partial scholarships, or fee-paying admission, depending on the institution and program. Students may be able to access affordable tuition options or scholarships, but eligibility and coverage vary. Applicants to undergraduate programs generally need a General Secondary School Certificate or an equivalent qualification. International applicants can explore public universities, private universities and colleges, and technical or vocational institutions.
If you are considering starting your studies in Saudi Arabia, this article provides general information about the country’s higher education system. Now, let’s get underway!
Types of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Saudi Arabia
1. University
Saudi universities offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of fields, although the programs available to international students vary by university and admission cycle. The language of instruction also depends on the institution and subject. Some universities, including King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, teach their programs in English, and students can explore other English-taught study options. Universities commonly calculate students’ academic performance using a grade-point-average system, but grading scales and policies may differ.
Saudi universities also offer doctoral programs and research opportunities. For example, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology offers PhD programs in science, technology, engineering, and related disciplines. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University currently lists several doctoral programs, including a PhD in Health Sciences and a PhD in Geography through its College of Arts. Applicants should consult each university’s current program and admissions pages to confirm whether a program is accepting international applications.
3. Vocational Institution
The postsecondary education system also includes vocational and technical institutions that prepare students for skilled occupations. The Technical and Vocational Training Corporation offers programs through technical colleges and other training facilities across Saudi Arabia. Its training network also includes strategic-partnership institutes, international technical colleges, licensed private training facilities, and flexible community-support programs. Depending on the institution and program, students may earn diplomas, intermediate qualifications, or applied bachelor’s degrees.
Types of Degree Levels in Saudi Arabia
Now, let’s look at the principal degree levels available in Saudi Arabia. The exact duration, curriculum, and admission requirements depend on the university and field of study.
1. Bachelor’s Degree
In Saudi Arabia, obtaining a bachelor’s degree requires completing an approved undergraduate program. Many bachelor’s programs last approximately four years, but this is not a universal rule. For example, Saudi Electronic University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is structured over four years and eight academic levels. Health and professional programs can be longer: Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University’s Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery lasts six years, while some other health programs include an additional internship or practical-training period.
Bachelor’s degrees are available in subjects such as business, computer science, nursing, medicine, accounting, engineering, and economics. For example, Saudi Electronic University and Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University publish current lists of their bachelor’s programs. International availability and admission requirements should be confirmed directly with the relevant university.
2. Master’s Degree
You can obtain a master’s degree in Saudi Arabia if you meet the requirements of your chosen institution and program. Program structures and durations vary, and students may encounter thesis, non-thesis, coursework, or professionally oriented options. For example, KAUST currently offers a 1.5-year non-thesis Master of Science track and a two-year thesis track across its listed subjects.
Saudi Arabia also has scholarship opportunities for international graduate students. Scholarship eligibility, tuition coverage, stipends, and other benefits differ by institution and funding program, so applicants should verify the current conditions before applying.
3. Doctoral Degree
Saudi universities offer doctoral programs for students interested in advanced study and original research. For example, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals offers a PhD in Chemistry. Its current direct or regular degree plan is organized over eight semesters and includes coursework, pre-dissertation study, and dissertation research.
Alfaisal University offers a PhD in Biomedical Sciences. The university describes it as a four-year, research-intensive doctoral program, with a curriculum totaling 57 credits. Before applying to any doctoral program, students should review its research areas, supervision arrangements, residency requirements, expected duration, tuition, and available funding.
The information provided here is intended to help you begin planning your studies in Saudi Arabia. Choosing the most appropriate university is an important decision, so you should research your selected institution carefully and follow the Complete Guide on How to Apply to Universities in Saudi Arabia to make a well-informed choice.
We hope this article has helped you understand the higher education system in Saudi Arabia. If you are interested, check out the Available Programs for International Students and the Guide to Studying in Saudi Arabia!
