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Yes. KAUST encourages students seeking to earn graduate degrees from Saudi Arabia and around the world to apply. Admission to KAUST is merit based. The University currently hosts students from over 60 countries and has received applications from students attending more than 220 universities around the world.
There is no application fee.
Those applicants who are unable to produce a English language proficiency test score or the optional GRE score by the deadline may still apply. However, you must submit your scores or upcoming test date including the confirmation/registration code to complete your application and enable it to move forward to the faculty review committee. (KAUST Admissions ETS TOEFL code 4107). (KAUST Admissions ETS GRE code 4139).
A review committee will ensure your application is complete and is a fit for your selected program of application. Following a faculty academic assessment of your application you may be invited to interview. The interview is an integral part of the application process and must be considered as a competitive step where you demonstrate your motivation and good fit for the program and the University. A committee consisting of KAUST administrators and faculty will conduct the interview either online or in person depending on your location. All applicants will be notified of their decision by email.
If your official transcripts or grade reports are not originally in English and the college or university you attended does not provide a translation of your transcript into English, you must provide an official translation (notarized by the your institution or Embassy with an appropriate seal or "chop") of your transcript into English. You may find and select a translation service of your choice. KAUST cannot provide referrals. It is preferable that your college or university provides an English translation of your official transcript.
Students holding an MS degree may be evaluated for admission to a second MS on a case by case basis. Students are generally encouraged to apply for a Ph.D. program if they have an appropriate MS degree.
If you have any questions during the application process, you can contact the KAUST Admissions Office at admissions@kaust.edu.sa
Graduate credit hours transferred from other programs may be applied to meet any Master's requirement. Up to 9 credits worth of graduate courses taken from another university or program that are equivalent in level and content to designated courses in the degree program may be counted towards meeting the major track requirement if their equivalence is confirmed by the Graduate Chair.
You do not need a faculty advisor before applying. Upon submission, MS/PhD and PhD applications will be reviewed by KAUST Admissions staff. Well-qualified candidates will be forwarded to faculty who may contact them to discuss their suitability for the program and research at KAUST.
Currently students may not apply to more than one program.
The MS/Ph.D program is an attractive option for students looking for fast entry into the world of research. Students can apply for the Ph.D program after completing a BS degree and are engaged in exciting research from the beginning of their program. The program typically takes four to five years to complete and students may complete a MS degree on the way to their Ph.D.