King Saud University (KSU) is offering a fully funded Saudi Arabia scholarship for Nigerian students who wish to pursue a Ph.D. in selected academic fields. This scholarship is designed to support highly talented and distinguished Nigerian students with exceptional academic and research achievements.
Through this scholarship, KSU provides an opportunity for Nigerian students to study in a globally recognized institution with world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a thriving academic environment. The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, healthcare, and other essential needs to ensure a smooth academic journey.
Saudi Arabia scholarship for Nigerian student Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for this Saudi Arabia scholarship for Nigerian students, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s degree from an accredited institution in a relevant field.
- Applicants must submit an official TOEFL, IELTS, or STEP score. The minimum required scores are:
- TOEFL IBT: 61
- IELTS: 6
- STEP: 85
- KSU admissions codes: IELTS (147080), TOEFL (7498)
- A waiver is possible for applicants who obtained their Master’s degree from an accredited institution in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
- A CV highlighting academic achievements, research experience, and any published work or patents (if available).
- Well-written document explaining academic goals, research interests, and reasons for choosing KSU.
- Optional GRE General Test, but encouraged unless required by the selected Ph.D. program.
- LApplicants may be required to attend an online or in-person interview as part of the selection process.
This scholarship is highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection. The admissions committee will assess each application based on academic merit, research potential, and the overall strength of the applicant’s profile.
Available Ph.D. Programs for Nigerian Students
The Saudi Arabia scholarship for Nigerian students is available for Ph.D. programs in the following fields:
- Computer Sciences
- Engineering
- Basic and Applied Sciences
- Health and Medical Sciences
Structure of the Ph.D. Programs
The Ph.D. programs under this scholarship are structured to provide advanced academic training and research experience. Key components include:
- Coursework: Completion of core and elective courses based on the chosen field of study.
- Dissertation Research: Conducting independent research in a specialized area, typically requiring a minimum of 24 credit hours.
- Qualifying Examinations: Students must pass written and oral exams to demonstrate their knowledge and readiness for dissertation research.
- Research Proposal: Submission and approval of a research proposal outlining the intended dissertation project.
- Dissertation Defense: The final requirement of the Ph.D. program is successfully defending the research findings before an academic panel.
Application Deadlines for the Scholarship
Nigerian students interested in this Saudi Arabia scholarship must submit their applications within the following period:
- Application Opens: March 24, 2025
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2025
The selection process will begin in late June 2025, and successful candidates will receive notifications. Admitted students can begin their studies in either:
- Fall Semester (August 2025)
- Winter Semester (January 2026)
To increase the chances of selection, applicants are advised to submit complete applications before the deadline. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The Saudi Arabia scholarship offers full financial support for up to three years. Benefits include:
- Full Tuition Coverage: No tuition fees for the entire duration of the Ph.D. program.
- Monthly Living Allowance: 54,000 SAR ($14,400) annually to cover personal expenses.
- On-Campus Housing: Accommodation provided for scholarship recipients.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Free medical care at KSU’s university hospitals.
- Relocation Support: Assistance for Nigerian students moving to Riyadh.
- Part-Time Work Opportunities: Possible on-campus job placements.
- Post-Graduation Employment Opportunities: Graduates may be eligible to work in Saudi Arabia for up to one year after completing their Ph.D.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a Master’s degree under this scholarship?
No, this scholarship is only for Ph.D. programs. Applications for Master’s degrees are not accepted under this scheme.
Will I need to attend an interview?
Yes, after the initial selection process, some applicants may be invited for an online or in-person interview as part of the assessment.
How to Apply for the Scholarship
Interested students should apply through the official KSU website: https://dgsinitiative.ksu.edu.sa/Home
Ensure that all required documents are uploaded before the deadline to be considered for this Saudi Arabia scholarship for Nigerian students.
