Saudi Arabia is becoming one of the top study destinations for Pakistani students. The country offering fully funded scholarships in modern universities and a safe environment. Pakistani families feel comfortable sending their children there because the culture food, and lifestyle are similar. In this guide, we explain everything: the eligibility required document step by step application process, tips common mistakes and official apply links.
Why Pakistani students choose Saudi scholarships
Saudi scholarships are popular because they solve the biggest barrier for international students high education costs. Many programs cover tuition fees, accommodation medical insurance and a monthly stipend. Some scholarships also include return air tickets. Saudi universities now appear in global rankings and offer modern facilities. Life in Saudi Arabia feels close to home for Pakistani students making it easier to adapt.
Types of Saudi scholarships for Pakistanis
Students can apply through three main paths:
Government scholarships through the Study in Saudi Arabia portal
The Ministry of Education runs the official portal called Study in Saudi Arabia. It lists almost all external scholarships for international students. Most Pakistani students start here because it is official and secure.
University funded scholarships
Some universities offer independent scholarships. Popular universities include:
- King Abdulaziz University
- King Saud University
- King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
- King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
- Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University
- Princess Nourah University for Women
Each university has its own application portal requirements, and deadlines.
Special seats for Pakistani students
Some years, Saudi Arabia reserves special seats for Pakistanis. These are usually announced through HEC or the Saudi Cultural Mission in Pakistan.
Eligibility for Pakistani students
Each university has specific rules, but common requirements include:
Bachelor level
- Intermediate or A Level certificate
- Minimum marks required by the university
- Age between 17 to 25 years
- Valid passport
Master level
- Bachelor degree from a recognized university
- Good CGPA
- Two recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose
- English test score if the program is in English
- Age mostly up to 30
PhD level
- Masters degree with a strong academic record
- Research proposal or plan
- Academic references
- Publications help in selection
- Age mostly up to 35
Some programs require Arabic language certificates for Arabic-taught programs or IELTS/TOEFL for English taught programs.
Documents Pakistani students must prepare
Saudi universities are strict about documentation. Prepare the following in advance:
- Valid passport for at least 1 year
- All academic certificates and transcripts
- Translation in English or Arabic if required
- HEC attestation and other relevant ministry attestation
- Passport size photos
- Statement of purpose
- CV or resume
- Recommendation letters
- IELTS or TOEFL scores if required
- Medical fitness certificate
- Police clearance certificate
- Equivalence certificate if required
Most Pakistani students mis deadlines due to late attestation and translation, so start early.
How to apply step by step
Step 1: Choose programs
Visit the Study in Saudi portal and check university websites. Make a list of programs that match your field.
Step 2: Check eligibility and requirements
Read instructions carefully. Confirm age limits, language requirements, and document formats for each program.
Step 3: Prepare and attest documents
Complete all attestations before the deadline. Upload only clear and readable scan.
Step 4: Complete Your Scholarship Application Online
Create an account on the official portal or university website. Fill all required fields honestly and upload document in PDF or JPG.
Step 5: Wait for shortlisting
Universities may request an online interview or extra documents. Keep an eye on email notifications.
Step 6: Final approval and visa process
After selection, you will receive an official acceptance letter. Follow the embassy instructions for visa procesing.
Benefits of Saudi scholarships
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend
- Free hostel or housing support
- Medical insurance
- Return air ticket in some cases
- Access to university facilities, labs, and librarie
These benefits make studying in Saudi Arabia much more affordable for Pakistani students.
Tips to increase your chances
- Apply early
- Write a clear and specific statement of purpose
- Get strong recommendation letters
- Highlight academic strengths in CV
- Apply to multiple universities
- Avoid unofficial agents
- Upload clean and readable documents
- Tailor each application for the university and program
Common mistakes Pakistani students make
- Uploading blurry or incomplete document
- Missing attestation
- Weak or generic statement of purpose
- Ignoring age limits
- Applying at the last minute
- Choosing programs that do not match previous studies
Fixing these mistakes improves your chances significantly.
Checklist before submitting
- Passport valid for at least 12 months
- All certificates attested
- Recommendation letters ready
- CV completed
- Statement of purpose checked
- Test scores uploaded
- All form fields filled
- Confirmation screenshot saved
Final Summary
Saudi scholarships offer Pakistani students a strong path to study abroad at a reduced cost. Early preparation, official applications, and complete documentation are key. If you follow these steps carefully, your chance of success increases significantly.
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