Discover the best scholarships in Saudi Arabia for Indian students. Explore top fully funded programs, eligibility, benefits, and application tips in this detailed guide.
Find Saudi Arabia scholarships specifically designed for Indian students.
Introduction
Scholarships in Saudi Arabia has rapidly transformed into one of the world’s leading education hubs for international students, including thousands of learners from India. With its strong economy, top-ranked universities, advanced research facilities, and numerous fully funded scholarships, Saudi Arabia has become a highly attractive study destination across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
For Indian students seeking high-quality education with full financial support, Saudi Arabia offers several prestigious scholarship programs covering tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipends, travel allowance, insurance, and additional academic benefits.
This comprehensive guide explores the best scholarships in Saudi Arabia for Indian students, their eligibility criteria, benefits, available fields of study, required documents, and practical tips to help Indian applicants secure funding successfully.
Why Choose Scholarships in Saudi Arabia for Higher Education?
Before listing the scholarships, it’s important to understand why Saudi Arabia has become a top destination for Indian students.
1. Fully Funded Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Most Scholarships in Saudi Arabia universities are fully funded, offering:
- 100% tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend
- Free accommodation
- Health insurance
- Arrival and return air tickets
- Access to laboratories and research centers
This makes Saudi Arabia financially attractive for Indian families.
2. Global Ranking of Saudi Universities
Top institutions such as:
- King Abdulaziz University
- King Saud University
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- Islamic University of Madinah
rank among the best in the Gulf region and globally, especially in science, technology, engineering, and Islamic studies.
3. Excellent Research Opportunities
Saudi Arabia invests billions in scientific research and innovation including:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Renewable Energy
- Biotechnology
- Engineering
- Islamic Studies and Arabic
Indian students specializing in these areas benefit greatly.
4. High Employment Opportunities
Graduates of Saudi universities secure:
- Jobs in multinational companies
- Research opportunities
- Academic roles
- Internships in emerging industries like oil & gas, IT, fintech, and renewable energy
5. Culturally Familiar Environment
Saudi Arabia hosts a large Indian community, contributing to a comfortable cultural and social environment along with Halal food availability and similar traditional values.
Top Scholarships in Saudi Arabia for Indian Students (Fully Explained)
Below are the most popular and highly recommended scholarships for Indian students planning to study in Scholarships in Saudi Arabia.
1. King Abdulaziz University (KAU) Scholarship
Overview
KAU offers one of the most generous fully funded scholarships in Saudi Arabia. It is available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs across many disciplines.
Fields of Study
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Business Administration
- Meteorology
- Environmental Sciences
- Marine Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Islamic Studies
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be an international student (Indian students eligible)
- Age limits:
- Bachelor’s: 17–25
- Master’s: under 30
- PhD: under 35
- Valid passport
- Good academic record
- English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for certain programs)
Benefits
- Fully funded tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Free housing
- Health insurance
- Travel tickets
- Access to advanced laboratories
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
KAU is highly diverse with thousands of Indian and Asian students. It provides excellent research opportunities and one of the highest stipends.
2. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Fellowship
Overview
KAUST is one of the top research universities in the Middle East, offering fully funded master’s and PhD scholarships.
Fields of Study
- Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Biological Sciences
- Marine Science
- Energy Resources
- Environmental Science
- Applied Physics
Eligibility Criteria
- Strong academic background
- Research proposal or interest
- English proficiency
- Recommendation letters
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Housing
- Relocation support
- Access to world-class labs
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
This scholarship suits Indian students pursuing high-level research in science and technology.
3. Islamic University of Madinah Scholarship
Overview
The Islamic University of Madinah offers a prestigious scholarship mainly for undergraduate studies, particularly in Islamic Studies and Quranic Sciences.
Fields of Study
- Islamic Law
- Quran Studies
- Dawah and Usul al-Deen
- Hadith
- Arabic Language
Eligibility
- Male international applicants
- Good academic record
- Strong interest in Islamic studies
- Valid passport
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Free living accommodations
- Transportation and medical care
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
Perfect for those who aim to study Islamic sciences deeply and pursue careers in education, research, or religious leadership.
4. King Saud University (KSU) Scholarship
Overview
King Saud University is one of the oldest and largest universities in the Kingdom, offering many scholarship categories.
Fields of Study
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Science
- Business
- Computer Science
- Pharmacy
Eligibility
- Minimum educational score requirements
- English/Arabic proficiency depending on the program
- Good health and conduct
Benefits
- Fully funded fee coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Housing and healthcare
- Research support
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
KSU offers extensive program options, including medical and engineering streams — the two most popular choices among Indian students.
5. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) Scholarship
Overview
KFUPM is renowned for engineering and petroleum studies. The scholarship is open to master’s and PhD students.
Fields of Study
- Chemical Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Management
- Computer Science
Eligibility
- Strong academic record
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
- Research background
- English test scores
Benefits
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
- Access to advanced labs
- Free textbooks
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
Indians with engineering backgrounds, especially in petroleum and mechanical fields, find KFUPM extremely valuable.
6. Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University Scholarship (For Girls)
Overview
The largest women’s university in the world offers scholarships to female international students.
Fields of Study
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Education
- Computer Science
- Design
- Languages
Eligibility
- Female applicants
- High school diploma or bachelor’s degree
- Age limits per program
- Good conduct and health
Benefits
- Free tuition
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- Health coverage
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Female Students
It encourages Indian women to pursue higher education in a safe and empowering environment.
7. Saudi Government Scholarships for International Students
Overview
The Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia offers general government-funded scholarships each year.
Eligibility
- International students from partner countries, including India
- Good academic record
- Valid passport
Benefits
- Full academic coverage
- Monthly financial support
- Accommodation
- Healthcare
- Travel allowance
Why It’s Ideal for Indian Students
Flexible and available across multiple universities and courses.
8. Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University Scholarship
Overview
This university specializes in Arabic, Sharia, Islamic law, and also offers modern fields.
Fields of Study
- Sharia
- Islamic Law
- Arabic Language
- Computer Science
- Business Administration
Benefits
- Fully funded
- Housing
- Visa support
- Living allowance
General Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students
While specific criteria vary by university, most require:
Academic Documents
- Class X/XII Marksheet (for bachelor’s)
- Bachelor’s/Master’s degree (for PG and PhD)
Other Required Documents
- Passport
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical report
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
- English language scores (TOEFL/IELTS where applicable)
General Benefits of Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Scholarships in Saudi Arabia are among the most generous globally. Benefits include:
Financial Benefits
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Annual travel tickets
- Free accommodation
Academic Benefits
- Access to global researchers
- High-tech laboratories
- Internship opportunities
Lifestyle Benefits
- Free healthcare
- Cultural programs
- Safe and supportive campus environment
How Indian Students Can Apply — Step-by-Step Guide Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Step 1: Choose Your University & Program
Based on your field of interest.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Verify age limit, academic scores, and language requirements.
Step 3: Prepare Documents
Compile transcripts, passport, SOP, LORs, and certificate translations if needed.
Step 4: Submit Online Application
Most universities allow direct scholarship applications.
Step 5: Attend Interview (If Required)
Some programs may conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates.
Step 6: Receive Admission & Scholarship Letter
Check email regularly.
Step 7: Apply for Student Visa
Complete the visa process through the Saudi Embassy.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Selected
1. Maintain High Academic Scores
Saudi universities prioritize merit.
2. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose
Explain:
- Why Saudi Arabia
- Why the chosen field
- Your future goals
3. Showcase Research Experience
Especially important for PG and PhD applicants.
4. Ensure Proper Documentation
Avoid formatting errors or incomplete forms.
5. Apply Early
Early applicants receive higher priority.
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
ssf.kau.edu.sa
dgsinitiative.ksu.edu.sa
sacmau.org
FAQs
1. Are Saudi scholarships fully funded for Indian students?
Yes, most Scholarships in Saudi Arabia are fully funded, covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, and travel.
2. Is IELTS mandatory?
Some universities require it; others accept alternatives or conduct internal assessments.
3. Can Indian female students apply?
Yes. Special women-only scholarships are also available.
4. Are engineering scholarships available?
Yes, especially at universities like KFUPM, KAUST, and KAU.
5. What is the age limit for Scholarships in Saudi Arabia?
Most bachelor’s programs require age 17–25, and master’s and PhD have higher age limits.
6. How long does the application process take?
Between 2 to 6 months depending on the university.
7. Can I work while studying Scholarships in Saudi Arabia?
Work options are limited; scholarships provide enough financial support.
Conclusion
Scholarships in Saudi Arabia offers some of the best scholarship opportunities in the world for Indian students, especially those seeking quality education in engineering, technology, science, medicine, and Islamic studies. With fully funded benefits, world-class facilities, and a supportive academic environment, Saudi universities provide an outstanding platform for Indian students to grow academically and professionally.
By choosing the right university, preparing strong documents, and applying early, Indian students can maximize their chances of securing a prestigious scholarship in the Kingdom.