The Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a fully funded international research internship designed for high-achieving undergraduate and master’s students. The program allows participants to work on cutting-edge research projects under the direct supervision of KAUST faculty in state-of-the-art laboratories.
Internships last between 3 to 6 months and are available across diverse disciplines including:
- Bioscience
- Environmental Science & Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Applied Mathematics & Computational Science
- Materials Science & Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
Students gain hands-on research experience, access to advanced facilities, and exposure to a multicultural academic environment in Saudi Arabia.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a 3rd or 4th year undergraduate student or a current master’s student
- Have a strong academic record (minimum GPA equivalent to 3.5/4.0 recommended)
- Demonstrate research interest aligned with available KAUST projects
- Possess good English communication skills
- Be enrolled in a degree program at the time of application and internship
The program is open to students of all nationalities.
Benefits
Selected interns receive comprehensive financial and logistical support, including:
- USD 1,000 monthly stipend
- Free private accommodation (bedroom with private bathroom)
- Round-trip airfare to Saudi Arabia
- Health insurance coverage
- Visa sponsorship and processing support
- Access to world-class research facilities
- Participation in academic seminars, workshops, and networking events
This opportunity is ideal for students aiming to pursue PhD studies or research-oriented careers.
Deadline
Applications are open year-round.
Selections are made on a rolling basis, so early application is strongly encouraged.
How to apply
Applicants must:
- Visit the official KAUST admissions website.
- Browse available research projects.
- Select a project that matches their academic background and interests.
- Submit the online application including:
- Updated CV
- Official academic transcript
- Statement of purpose
- Letter of recommendation
