Fully funded internship program with airfare tickets and more at KAUST in Saudi Arabia

Are you an undergraduate student in your third year, or a student with a bachelor's degree or above? Are you interested in conducting cutting-edge research in a world-class environment? If so, then the Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is for you! KAUST is a world-renowned research university located in Saudi Arabia. It is home to some of the brightest minds in the world, and offers a wide range of research opportunities in fields such as cybersecurity, environmental science and engineering, computer science, and more.

The VSRP is a fully-funded program that provides students with the opportunity to conduct research at KAUST for a period of 3 to 6 months. The program covers all expenses, including airfare, visa, and accommodation. The VSRP is a great way to gain research experience, learn from world-renowned experts, and network with other talented students. It is also a great way to explore a new culture and country. The VSRP is a highly competitive program, but it is an amazing opportunity for students who are passionate about research. If you are selected for the program, you will have the chance to make a real difference in the world.

Participating in the VSRP offers a range of compelling advantages. Firstly, it's a fully-funded program, alleviating financial concerns and ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research endeavors. Additionally, the opportunity to conduct research at a world-renowned university is an invaluable experience. Scholars not only gain access to cutting-edge facilities and resources but also become part of a vibrant academic community.

Moreover, participants have the privilege of learning from world-renowned experts, exposing them to a wealth of knowledge and mentorship that can profoundly impact their academic and professional journeys. Networking opportunities abound as well, allowing students to connect with other talented peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering collaboration and cross-cultural learning. Lastly, the program offers the chance to immerse oneself in a new culture and country, broadening horizons and enhancing global perspectives – an enriching experience that goes beyond academic pursuits.

Program Details

  • Hosting Country: Saudi Arabia
  • Program Duration: 3 to 6 month
  • Coverage: Fully funded

What does the program offers?

Here are some of the benefits that students can enjoy as part of the VSRP:

  • Accomodation: Students will have their own private bedroom and bathroom during their stay at KAUST.
  • Visa and airfare fees: The VSRP will cover the cost of the student's visa and airfare to and from Saudi Arabia.
  • Monthly stipends: a monthly stipend of USD 1000 will be given to the successful candidates.
  • Health insurance: The VSRP will provide health insurance for the student during their stay at KAUST.
  • Social and cultural activities: The VSRP will provide opportunities for students to participate in social and cultural activities in Saudi Arabia.
  • Students will have access to KAUST's state-of-the-art core laboratories and major research and community facilities.
  • Opportunity to conduct research at a world-renowned university: KAUST is a world-class research university with a strong track record of innovation.
  • Students will have the opportunity to work with world-renowned faculty and researchers on cutting-edge projects.
  • Students will have the opportunity to learn from some of the brightest minds in the world. KAUST faculty are experts in their fields and are passionate about teaching and mentoring students.
  • The VSRP is a great way to network with other talented students from around the world.
  • Students will have the opportunity to collaborate on research projects and learn from each other.
  • KAUST is located in Saudi Arabia, a country with a rich history and culture. Students will have the opportunity to explore a new culture and country while they are participating in the VSRP.

What are the available research field?

The VSRP offers a wide range of research opportunities in the following fields:

  • Cybersecurity
  • Environmental Science and Engineering
  • Computer Science:
  • Applied Mathematics and Computational Science
  • Materials Science and Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Energy

There are many other research fields available through the VSRP. To find out more, please visit the official link below. The specific research projects that are available will vary each year, depending on the interests of the faculty members and the availability of funding. However, the VSRP always offers a wide range of opportunities for students to conduct cutting-edge research in a world-class environment.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible to apply for the VSRP, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Be an undergraduate student in their third year or above, or a student with a bachelor's degree or above.
  • Have a strong academic background in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
  • Have a GPA of 3.5/4 or 14/20 (ECTS B).
  • Be able to communicate effectively in English.
  • Be motivated and passionate about research.
  • Be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Required documents

The following documents are required for the VSRP application:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Valid passport
  • Personal statement

How to apply?

The VSRP program applications are accepted throughout the year. The way to apply for VSRP internship is to apply via a project on the available list (check the official website below). There is more than 100 projects spanning 16 STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), and each project has its own 'Apply' button.

Important links

Please refer to the link below for more informations: