Education is the transmission of knowledge, skills and character traits. It is a powerful driver of development and one of the strongest instruments for reducing poverty, improving health, peace and stability. The formal form of education occurs within a structured institutional framework, such as public schools, following a curriculum.
Education, they say, is power but sometimes can be quite expensive to acquire. One of the cheapest ways to access education, whether domestically or internationally, is by obtaining a scholarship. Securing a scholarship anywhere around the world require diligence, perseverance, and a strong academic background, but the good thing is, several opportunities exist for motivated and qualified individuals.
If you carefully research available scholarships, maintain academic excellence, and actively engage in extracurricular activities, you can improve your chances of securing scholarships to support your educational goals. In today’s article, we will be discussing how you can bag scholarships in Saudi Arabia.
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Why Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is a home to a growing number of world-class institutions. There are 7 Saudi universities in the QS World University Ranking 2021 which sees Saudi Arabia emerging as a strong hub for higher education-especially in STEM subjects.
Aside from Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation for academic excellence, those who study there have the privilege to explore Saudi’s distinctive culture and heritage. The country is popular for its great ancient archaeological sites, breathtaking mountain top ranges etc. Also, Saudi Arabia has a growing and striving economy which is opening up exciting opportunities for graduates across various industries. It is located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa and their people are known for their hospitality and are very welcoming. It is a safe country that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Obtaining Scholarships in Saudi Arabia
Obtaining scholarships in Saudi Arabia depends on several factors which include: availability of scholarships, the level of competition, and the applicant’s qualifications. Here are some of the things you need to put into consideration when trying to access scholarships in Saudi Arabia.
Government Scholarships
The Saudi Arabian government is a significant provider of scholarships for both domestic and international students. They offer opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate studies both within the country and abroad. The King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) (http://admissions.kaust.edu.sa) and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program (https://www.cst.gov.sa) are important initiatives that sponsor students for studies in diverse fields at reputable institutions within the country and worldwide. If interested, you can visit the official websites of these programs for detailed eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines.
University Scholarships
Many universities in Saudi Arabia, both public and private, offer scholarships to attract talented students and foster academic excellence. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. You can explore the websites of your desired universities to identify available scholarship opportunities and their respective application requirements. Also, you can contact the university’s financial aid office or international student services department to get information about the scholarship options and application procedures.
Research Grants and Fellowships
In recent times, Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in research and innovation, leading to the establishment of various research institutes, centers, and laboratories. These institutions often offer research grants and fellowships to support graduate students and researchers in conducting advanced research in diverse fields. If you are an aspiring scholar, you should explore opportunities provided by organizations such as the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) to pursue research-oriented scholarships and fellowships.
Online Resources and Scholarship Portals
There are a lot of online resources and scholarship portals that provide comprehensive databases of scholarship opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Websites such as the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission’s Scholarship Portal (http://sacm.org.au), Scholarship-Positions.com, and Studyabroad.com offer accessible information, application tips, and resources that can help you to identify and apply for scholarships that align with your academic and career goals. Additionally, social media platforms and professional networking sites can connect you with scholarship opportunities in the academic community.
I wish you best of luck!
