Masters Study in Saudi Arabia – A Guide for 2026

Saudi Arabia is becoming a serious option for Masters study, thanks to fast-growing universities, major government investment and a strong focus on research. Best known for energy and engineering, the country also offers postgraduate opportunities in subjects such as history, religious studies and the social sciences alongside a very different cultural experience.

In this guide, I’ll explain what it’s like to study a Masters in Saudi Arabia in 2026. I’ll cover the courses on offer, funding options, how to apply, and what to expect from student life including some tips from yours truly. 

Here are just a few more reasons why you might want to consider studying a Masters in Saudi Arabia this year:

• World-class universities – Nine Saudi universities featured in the Times Higher Education top 500 rankings for 2025, and more are climbing fast.

• Strong funding support – National programmes such as Vision 2030 and Aafaq are designed to attract international students and boost global research links.

• A growing international student community – Around 64,000 international students studied in Saudi Arabia in 2024, so you won’t be the only one figuring things out.

• Good graduate prospects – The country’s energy, engineering and research sectors offer solid career opportunities especially if oil and gas are your thing.

Similar to the UK higher education system, students are required to have completed a Bachelors degree in order to apply for a Masters.

There are three different types of Saudi Arabian universities:

• State universities – These universities are funded and governed by the Ministry of Education, though they retain academic autonomy.
• Private universities – Registered private universities receive no direct public funding.
• Private colleges – Also funded by the Ministry of Education, private colleges offer a range of specialist Masters courses.

Saudi Masters programmes are made up of 36 credits, combining core and elective modules, and many courses include a Masters thesis, though this is sometimes optional. Most degrees are taught programmes lasting two years, with the academic year typically running from late August to June over two semesters, although some (often shorter courses) also include a summer semester.

Assessment usually involves a mix of coursework and exams, and research-based degrees may require a thesis worth around 12 credits, followed by an oral defence in front of a small academic panel. Some courses replace the thesis with additional taught modules or a research-based internship, so it’s worth checking the course structure before applying.

Fees and funding

Many Masters degrees in Saudi Arabia offer full or partial scholarships, often covering tuition, accommodation, healthcare and sometimes travel, making study here more affordable than you might expect.

To apply for a Masters degree in Saudi Arabia, you must apply directly to the university. International students should note that health and medical programmes are only open to Saudi citizens.

Entry requirements

Requirements vary by course, but you’ll usually need:

• A Bachelors degree in a related subject
• An academic transcript meeting the university’s grade requirements
• Language proficiency in the teaching language (often English; an approved test may be required)
• Official ID and passport photo
• A reference letter
• A statement of purpose and CV

Application deadlines vary by institution. Some universities accept applications year-round, while others have deadlines in June–July or January–February.

To obtain a study visa for Saudi Arabia, you must first have a scholarship offer from a university. You’ll also need a confirmed place at the university, a birth certificate, a medical certificate, proof of visa fee payment, and a travel approval letter from your home government. Student visas follow the academic calendar, so check the dates carefully. Upon arrival, you can get a free residence permit from the embassy by submitting a letter from your university, which covers you for the duration of your studies.

So, we've covered fees and course types, but what about living in Saudi Arabia! Let’s take a look at what else you need to consider for a study abroad adventure in Finland:

Laws and regulations

As the country abides by Islamic traditions and laws it is important to know some key points about life in Saudi Arabia.

• Men and women do not mix in public places and open displays of affection are not permitted
• Women must dress modestly
• Consumption and possession of alcohol is not permitted
• Breaking laws against drug use and trafficking can incur the death penalty

For further information we recommend that you check the advice issued by the UK Government or your home country.

Tips from the Author

Studying in Saudi Arabia can be an incredible experience, but a little preparation goes a long way. Start your search early, especially for accommodation, and make sure you understand visa and residence‑permit requirements. Learn about local customs and social etiquette to help you settle in, and factor in the climate, from scorching desert days to cooler nights. Budget carefully. Even though living costs are generally low, it’s easy to overspend on travel or weekend trips. Finally, make the most of student societies, and scholarship benefits to enrich your experience both academically and socially.