King Abdullah University training

The KAUST VSRP is a unique program that gives students the opportunity to conduct innovative research at KAUST.

Through this historical training, gifted students can conduct experimental study of many technologies in laboratories.

With research opportunities that span widely across scientific and engineering fields, students driven with insatiable curiosity and strong academic performance can obtain unparalleled opportunities to pursue their research questions under the supervision and support of KAUST College mentors. Be prepared to contribute your ideas to an international research community.

Benefits of King Abdullah University training

• 1000 US dollars monthly salary
• Private bedroom/bathroom
• Visa fees and air tickets
• health insurance
• Social and cultural activities
• Access to core laboratories, key research and community facilities.

KAUST training offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring students and researchers to benefit from multiple advantages that combine academic education and practical training. These opportunities are ideal for those seeking to develop their skills and advance their scientific and research knowledge in a stimulating and supportive environment.

One of the most notable benefits offered by KAUST training is the monthly salary of $1000. This stipend enhances students' financial independence and allows them to fully focus on their studies and research without worrying about daily expenses. In addition, the program offers a private bedroom and bathroom, ensuring students have the comfort and privacy they need to relax after long days of studying and research.

The benefits are not limited to financial support and comfortable accommodation, but also cover visa fees and air tickets. This reflects the university's commitment to providing a smooth and comfortable experience for international students, eliminating the financial and procedural hurdles they may face when moving to Saudi Arabia.

Health and safety are at a premium in KAUST training, with health insurance provided to all participants. This service guarantees students access to the necessary health care when needed, which enhances the feeling of safety and stability during the training period.

The university also promotes the social and cultural life of students by organizing various social and cultural activities. These activities provide an opportunity for students to interact and get to know their colleagues from different cultural backgrounds, which contributes to building a strong and diverse network of relationships. These cultural and social experiences are an essential part of students' personal and professional development.

One of the unique advantages that KAUST training offers is access to core laboratories, key research and community facilities. The university provides the latest advanced equipment and technologies in the field of scientific research, allowing students to conduct their research in a sophisticated environment equipped with the latest tools. This research support contributes to developing students’ research skills and enables them to achieve distinguished scientific achievements.

In addition to all these benefits, the university provides a stimulating academic environment that includes an elite group of scholars and experts in various fields. This environment encourages academic interaction and knowledge exchange between students and professors, which contributes to enriching the educational and research experience for students.

These multiple opportunities make KAUST training an ideal choice for those who wish to embark on their academic and research career in the best possible way.

King Abdullah University training requirements

Third year and above baccalaureate or master’s students. Current doctoral degree candidates, KAUST students, or KAUST graduates are not eligible to apply.

• An ECTS B certificate is required with a GPA of 3.5/4 or 14/20 and strong levels of written English language skills recommended.
• Or a minimum TOEFL IBT of 79
• IELTS score of 6.0 (International English Language Testing System).
• The length of the program ranges between 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of research.
• This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Third year and above

Enrollment in the King Abdullah University training program requires that the student be in the third year of his university studies or higher. This requirement ensures that the applicant has acquired a sufficient amount of basic knowledge and academic experience that qualifies him to participate in advanced research programs. Students who have passed the first years of study have the academic abilities and intellectual maturity that help them make the most of the opportunities offered by this training.

Baccalaureate or Master's students

The program is open to students studying for a bachelor's or master's degree. This diversity in academic levels is considered an opportunity for scientific and knowledge exchange between participants, as bachelor’s students can benefit from the experiences of master’s students and work with them on joint research projects. This cooperation enhances the learning environment and encourages innovation and creativity.

Current PhD candidates

Or KAUST students or KAUST graduates are not eligible to apply.

The program excludes current doctoral degree candidates and KAUST students and graduates from applying, in order to ensure opportunities for students from other universities and different academic levels. This policy aims to expand the circle of benefiting from available resources and expertise, and to encourage academic diversity and participation from various educational institutions.

An ECTS B certificate with a cumulative GPA of 3.5/4 or 14/20 is required

Applying for the training program requires submitting an ECTS certificate with a grade of at least B, or the equivalent of a cumulative GPA of 3.5 out of 4, or 14 out of 20. This requirement reflects the program’s commitment to attracting academically distinguished students who demonstrate the potential for high academic achievement and academic commitment. Strong academic performance is an important indicator of a student's readiness to engage in advanced research and scientific challenges.

Strong written English skills recommended

Strong English language skills, both oral and written, are a basic requirement to participate in the training program. It is recommended that applicants have excellent ability to communicate in English, as English is the language of instruction and communication at the university. These skills are essential to ensure that participants are able to understand research materials, participate effectively in academic discussions, and present their research clearly and concisely.

Minimum TOEFL IBT of 79 or IELTS score of 6.0

Applicants must provide proof of their level of English proficiency by passing the TOEFL IBT with a score of at least 79 or obtaining an IELTS score of 6.0. These international tests assess applicants' English language level and ensure their ability to successfully follow the program and participate effectively in all academic activities.

The length of the program ranges from 3 to 6 months

The length of the training program varies between 3 to 6 months, depending on the type of research being conducted. The duration of the program is determined on a case-by-case basis, allowing the program flexibility to meet different research needs and participant requirements. This period of time provides participants with sufficient opportunity to acquire the necessary skills and experience, and to successfully complete their research projects.

This will be determined on a case-by-case basis

The university adopts a flexible system in determining the duration of the program based on the nature of the research and the needs of the student. This personalized approach ensures that each participant receives the appropriate support and sufficient time to achieve their research goals. This approach also enhances the quality of the research produced and ensures its conformity with the high academic standards to which King Abdullah University of Science and Technology adheres.

How to select students for King Abdullah University training

What happens after you submit an application? Once you submit all requirements, your complete application will be reviewed and you may be contacted by a faculty member for a Skype interview to discuss your academic and research background and learn more about your interest in training.

If you are selected to proceed, you will receive an invitation to schedule a Skype interview with the Admissions Office, where we will discuss any questions you may have about life at KAUST and hear more about you.

If you are approved, you will receive an acceptance letter via email after your interview. Finally, a travel advisor will contact you to assist with a smooth transition to the KAUST campus.

Partner universities

International partnerships at KAUST expand opportunities for students to join as research trainees or as full-time students through structured programs.

KAUST and its partners share a common goal of advancing science and technology through collaborative research and education, while addressing challenges of national, regional and global importance.

Our international partners are based in over 20 countries, with formal agreements ranging from general Ministry of Defence, agreements to dual PhD arrangements, Visiting Student Research Program agreements, and dual degree pathways through structured programmes.

If your university is a partner of KAUST, please contact us for more information or visit the university's international office.

Basic laboratories

With more than 150 scientists, engineers, technicians and administrative staff, the core laboratories provide state-of-the-art central facilities, training and service to KAUST faculty, students, researchers and industrial partners.

These centrally organized shared-user facilities provide direct access to specialized research equipment managed by expert staff.

Core laboratories are strategically located throughout the campus allowing users to move between laboratories within minutes.

Documents required from you to register for King Abdullah University training

•  A copy of the passport or national ID
•  Copies of certificates
•  Statement of purpose
•  Motivation letter
•  recommendation Letter
•  Biography

A copy of the passport or national ID

A copy of the passport or national ID is one of the most important documents required when registering in the training program at King Abdullah University. This document is necessary to identify the applicant and verify his nationality. The photo must be clear and current, making sure all personal information is clearly readable. This procedure contributes to ensuring security and transparency in the admission process.

Copies of certificates

Submitting copies of academic certificates is another basic requirement. Applicants must provide certified copies of all educational certificates they have obtained to date, from high school diplomas to undergraduate and graduate degrees if applicable. These certificates are proof of the applicant's academic competence and help evaluate their qualifications and suitability to join the program.

Statement of purpose

The Statement of Purpose is a core document that applicants are required to submit, in which the student explains his or her academic and professional goals and the reasons for choosing the training program at KAUST. The statement should be written clearly and concisely, reflecting the student's ambitions and how they align with what the program offers. This document allows the admission committee to understand the student’s motivations and the extent of his compatibility with the university’s goals.

Motivation letter

The motivation letter is an opportunity for the applicant to express his enthusiasm and passion for participating in the training program. The letter should explain the applicant's personal motivations, and how the training can contribute to the development of his or her skills and knowledge. The letter should be honest and expressive, highlighting passion and commitment to the applicant's chosen academic field.

recommendation Letter

A letter of recommendation is usually requested from a professor or academic supervisor who has worked closely with the applicant. This letter provides an outside view of the student's abilities and academic achievements. The letter must be carefully written and detailed, and include concrete examples of the applicant's abilities and performance in various academic situations. This document plays a crucial role in giving the admission committee a complete picture of the applicant.

Biography

The CV is an important tool to provide a comprehensive background about the applicant. The CV must include all personal details, education, work experiences, skills, and extracurricular activities. The CV should be organized and easy to read, highlighting previous academic achievements and research activities. The CV is a mirror that reflects the applicant's personality and professionalism, which helps assess his or her suitability for the program.

The registration process for King Abdullah University training requires submitting a set of documents that reflect the applicant’s academic and personal identity. By providing these documents in an accurate and organized manner, applicants can enhance their chances of acceptance and participation in this distinguished program that opens wide doors for academic and professional development.

Eligible Nationalities