How to Apply for a Scholarship in Saudi Arabia (Step-by-Step Guide + Document Translation)
- Jeddah Translation Office
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
If you're looking to study abroad for free, Saudi Arabia is an increasingly popular destination. With fully funded scholarships, top-ranked universities, and a strong focus on research and development, it offers great opportunities for international students.
In this blog post, you'll learn how to apply for a scholarship in Saudi Arabia step-by-step, and exactly which documents need to be translated.
🌍 Why Study in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia has become a global education hub, offering:
Fully funded undergraduate, master's, and PhD scholarships
Monthly stipends, free accommodation, and health insurance
Access to world-class universities like KAUST, King Saud University, and King Abdulaziz University
And the best part? Many of these scholarships are open to international students from all over the world.
✅ Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Scholarship in Saudi Arabia
1. Choose the Right Type of Scholarship
There are different types of scholarships available:
Government Scholarships (e.g., King Abdullah Scholarship Program)
University Scholarships (e.g., KAUST, King Abdulaziz University)
Cultural/Bilateral Agreements between Saudi Arabia and your country
👉 Visit studyinsaudi.moe.gov.sa to explore current opportunities.
2. Select a University or Program
Head to the university’s official website and check:
Available courses and majors
Language of instruction (Arabic or English)
Scholarship benefits and deadlines
Make sure the program you're applying to accepts international students.
3. Review the Eligibility Criteria
Each scholarship program has its own criteria, but most require:
A strong academic record
Age limits (usually under 25 for bachelor’s, under 30 for master’s)
Proof of English or Arabic proficiency
A clean criminal record and good health
Check the specific requirements for your chosen university.
4. Prepare and Translate Your Documents
To apply successfully, you’ll need to translate and certify several documents. Here's a quick guide:
Document | Translation Required? | Notes |
Academic Certificates & Transcripts | ✅ Yes | Must be certified and attested |
Passport | ✅ Yes (if not in English/Arabic) | Translate ID page only |
Birth Certificate | ✅ Yes | Often required |
National ID | ✅ Yes | If applicable |
Police Clearance Certificate | ✅ Yes | Recent and attested |
Medical Report | ✅ Yes | From an approved medical center |
Recommendation Letters | ✅ Yes | From teachers or university officials |
CV or Resume | ✅ Optional | Preferably in English and Arabic |
Personal Statement or Motivation Letter | ✅ Optional | Tailor it to the program |
IELTS/TOEFL Certificate | ❌ No | Accepted in English |
Passport Photos | ❌ No | No translation needed |
📝 Pro Tip: Use a certified/sworn translator. In most cases, documents must be attested by your Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Saudi Embassy in your country.
5. Submit Your Application Online
Once everything is ready:
Create an account on the university or national scholarship portal
Upload all translated and certified documents
Double-check the deadlines!
For government scholarships, you can apply through the Ministry of Education portal: studyinsaudi.moe.gov.sa
6. Follow Up and Wait for the Results
If you're shortlisted:
You may be contacted for an interview or asked to provide more documents
Once accepted, you’ll receive an official scholarship admission letter
You can then start the student visa process through the Saudi embassy
📌 Final Tips
Start the application process early — some scholarships open 6–12 months in advance
Keep digital and physical copies of all translated and attested documents
Apply to multiple universities to increase your chances
🎯 Conclusion
Studying in Saudi Arabia on a scholarship can open doors to excellent education, cultural exchange, and personal growth. The key to success is planning ahead and ensuring your documents are properly translated and attested.
If you need help translating or certifying documents for a Saudi scholarship application, feel free to contact us — we’re here to support your academic journey.
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