How Aiisha Nurmanova, a Kazakh Scholar, Secured Fully Funded Graduate Studies at KAUST Through the KAUST Fellowship

My name is Aiisha Nurmanova, and I am from Kazakhstan. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia. Before coming to KAUST, I completed my bachelor’s degree in Chemical and Materials Engineering at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan. I have always loved chemistry, but I also knew that I wanted my career to involve something practical and hands-on. Chemical engineering turned out to be the perfect intersection.

KAUST Fellowship Details

I received the KAUST Fellowship, a fully funded scholarship for my master’s and PhD studies. The fellowship covers full tuition fees, provides a living stipend of approximately $20,000 per year for master’s students and $30,000 per year for PhD students, on-campus accommodation, health insurance, and relocation support, including visa and travel assistance. The KAUST Fellowship is automatically offered to students admitted to its master’s and PhD programs, without requiring a separate scholarship application.

Other Offered Scholarships

KAUST was not my only option. I was also offered funding for a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), where the postgraduate studentship currently provides approximately HK$19,135 per month. I also received a DAAD scholarship offer for master’s studies in Germany, a program that currently provides approximately €992 per month alongside additional benefits. The research group I was accepted into at KAUST was my dream research group, so research fit was ultimately what mattered most in my decision.

Educational Background

I graduated from Nazarbayev University with a GPA of 3.3/4.0, which was not particularly outstanding for competitive graduate admissions. However, I want to emphasize that KAUST takes academic performance and a high GPA very seriously, so strong grades are an advantage. I believe what made my application stand out was my research experience. During my undergraduate studies, I spent two years working in the laboratory, received several small research grants, and completed an international research internship at the University of Tokyo through the Amgen Scholars Program. These experiences helped me develop practical research skills and demonstrate my interest in pursuing a research career.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to KAUST?

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and Universities?

My scholarship search was mostly self-directed. I spent a lot of time browsing university websites, comparing graduate programs, and researching funding opportunities. I also learned a lot from alumni of Nazarbayev University who had already pursued graduate studies abroad. The KAUST application process was relatively straightforward.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests?

The only standardized examination I needed to take was IELTS to demonstrate my English proficiency. I prepared by practicing with sample IELTS tests and familiarizing myself with the exam format and time limits.

What Did the KAUST Application Require?

The application also required three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, academic transcripts, and a CV.

How Is Your Experience at KAUST?

My experience at KAUST has been wonderful. What makes this university unique, in my opinion, is that it creates an environment where you can dedicate almost all your attention to your research interests. At KAUST, your biggest limitation is often only yourself.

Another major advantage is the support KAUST provides to international students. The university helps with relocation, visas, housing, health insurance, and settling into life in Saudi Arabia. The campus is a self-contained community with residential areas, supermarkets, restaurants, sports facilities, swimming pools, beaches, and numerous recreational activities. Students come from all over the world, making the environment incredibly international.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Arabic?

Both academic life and everyday communication on campus take place primarily in English, so knowing Arabic is not necessary. However, Arabic language courses are available for those interested in learning the language and exploring the local culture. Overall, KAUST provides a supportive environment where international students can feel at home, focus on their research, and make the most of their graduate studies.