Quick Answer: Bournemouth University offers several scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Merit Scholarship (up to £5,000), regional scholarships specifically for Middle East students, and subject-specific awards for business and media programs. Applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines in May-June, and students need a minimum 3.0 GPA or equivalent to qualify.

Introduction

For Saudi students seeking world-class education in the UK, Bournemouth University presents exceptional opportunities through its comprehensive scholarship programs. As one of the UK's leading modern universities, BU has established itself as a premier destination for international students, particularly those from the Gulf region.

This guide provides Saudi students with detailed information about available scholarships at Bournemouth University for 2026 entry, application processes, eligibility criteria, and strategic tips to maximize your chances of securing funding for your UK education journey.

About Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University, ranked 79th in the UK by The Complete University Guide 2026, is renowned for its industry connections and practical approach to education. Located on England's south coast, the university serves over 18,000 students, including more than 3,000 international students from 120+ countries.

The university excels in media, business, tourism, and creative industries, with 94% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation. For Saudi students, BU's strong emphasis on employability and industry partnerships makes it an attractive choice, especially given Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 focus on diversifying the economy.

Available Scholarships for Saudi Students

International Merit Scholarship

The flagship scholarship program offers awards ranging from £2,500 to £5,000 annually for outstanding international students. Saudi students with strong academic records (equivalent to UK 2:1 or above) are eligible for this competitive award.

Key Details:

• Award Value: £2,500 - £5,000 per year
• Renewable: Yes, subject to maintaining academic standards
• Application Required: Automatic consideration upon admission
• Criteria: Academic excellence and personal statement quality

Middle East Regional Scholarship

Specifically designed for students from the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, this scholarship recognizes the growing educational partnerships between the UK and Gulf region.

Key Details:

• Award Value: £3,000 per year
• Duration: Full degree program
• Eligibility: Saudi nationals or residents
• Additional Benefits: Priority accommodation booking

Subject-Specific Scholarships

Business School Excellence Award

For Saudi students pursuing business-related degrees, this scholarship acknowledges BU's AACSB-accredited business school.

• Award Value: £4,000 for first year
• Eligibility: Business, Management, or Economics programs
• Requirements: Strong mathematical background and leadership experience

Media School Innovation Scholarship

Given BU's reputation in media and communications (ranked 15th in UK for Media Studies), Saudi students entering media programs can access dedicated funding.

• Award Value: £3,500 annually
• Programs: All Media School courses
• Special Requirement: Portfolio submission

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Requirements

Saudi students must meet the following academic standards:

1. Secondary Education: Saudi Tawjihiyya with minimum 85% overall
2. Undergraduate Degrees: For postgraduate applications, minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA from recognized Saudi universities
3. English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0-7.0 depending on program (with no component below 5.5)

Additional Requirements

• Financial Documentation: Proof of remaining funds for living expenses
• Personal Statement: 500-word essay demonstrating academic goals and career aspirations
• References: Two academic references (one professional for postgraduate applicants)
• Portfolio: Required for creative and media programs

Application Process and Timeline

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. January 2026: Scholarship applications open alongside university admissions
2. March 2026: Submit complete application through UCAS (undergraduate) or direct application (postgraduate)
3. May 2026: Scholarship application deadline for September 2026 entry
4. June 2026: Scholarship decisions communicated
5. July 2026: Acceptance deadline for scholarship offers

Required Documents

• Completed scholarship application form
• Academic transcripts (officially translated if in Arabic)
• English language test results
• Personal statement specifically addressing scholarship criteria
• Two reference letters
• Copy of Saudi passport
• Financial statements

Application Tips for Saudi Students

1. Start Early: Begin applications by December 2025 to ensure all documents are ready
2. Highlight Saudi Context: Emphasize how your education will contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030
3. Show Leadership: Include examples of community involvement or leadership roles in Saudi Arabia
4. Demonstrate Career Goals: Connect your chosen program to specific career opportunities in the Kingdom

Living Costs and Additional Funding

Estimated Annual Expenses

• Tuition Fees: £16,500 - £18,500 (varies by program)
• Accommodation: £6,000 - £8,500 (university halls)
• Living Expenses: £8,000 - £10,000
• Total Annual Cost: £30,500 - £37,000

External Funding Options

Saudi students can explore additional funding sources:

1. King Abdulaziz and his Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba)
2. Saudi Aramco Scholarship Program
3. Ministry of Education Scholarships
4. Private family foundations within Saudi Arabia

When exploring these opportunities, students should find your perfect university that aligns with their funded program requirements and career aspirations.

University Support for Saudi Students

Academic Support

• Pre-arrival English courses: Available through BU's English Language Centre
• Academic Skills workshops: Focused on UK academic writing and research methods
• Personal Academic Tutoring: One-to-one support throughout studies

Cultural and Social Integration

• Islamic Society: Active student society with prayer facilities on campus
• Middle Eastern Student Network: Connecting students from the Gulf region
• Halal dining options: Available across campus restaurants
• Cultural celebrations: Recognition of Islamic holidays and Saudi National Day

Career Prospects and Industry Connections

Bournemouth University's strong industry partnerships benefit Saudi students through:

• Placement Year Options: Available in most programs, with many students securing positions in London and internationally
• Career Fair Access: Regular recruitment events featuring multinational companies
• Alumni Network: Over 2,000 BU graduates working across the Middle East
• Graduate Visa Route: Two-year post-study work visa for international graduates

Success Stories

Recent Saudi graduates from Bournemouth University have secured positions with:

• Saudi Aramco (Engineering and Business graduates)
• NEOM project (Media and Tourism graduates)
• Red Sea Development Company (Hospitality and Events graduates)
• Various consulting firms in Riyadh and Jeddah

Conclusion

Bournemouth University's scholarship opportunities provide Saudi students with accessible pathways to UK higher education. With application deadlines approaching in May 2026, prospective students should begin their preparation immediately to maximize their chances of securing funding and embarking on their educational journey in one of the UK's most dynamic coastal cities.

Key Statistics

📊 Bournemouth University ranks 79th in the UK according to The Complete University Guide 2026, with particular strength in media studies (15th nationally)

💰 International Merit Scholarships worth up to £5,000 annually are available, with over £2 million in total scholarship funding distributed to international students each year

🎓 94% of BU graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months, with average starting salaries of £24,500 for international graduates

🌍 Over 3,000 international students from 120+ countries study at BU, with Middle Eastern students representing 8% of the international student body

📈 Saudi student enrollment at UK universities increased by 23% in 2025, with Bournemouth University seeing a 35% increase in Saudi applications

🏛️ BU's business school holds AACSB accreditation, placing it among the top 5% of business schools worldwide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for Bournemouth University scholarships as a Saudi student?

Saudi students can apply for BU scholarships through the standard university application process. Submit your application via UCAS (for undergraduate) or directly to the university (for postgraduate) by May 2026. The International Merit Scholarship requires no separate application - you're automatically considered upon admission. For regional and subject-specific scholarships, complete the additional scholarship form available on the BU website. Ensure all documents are submitted in English or with certified translations.

What are the minimum academic requirements for Saudi students to qualify for scholarships?

Saudi students need a minimum of 85% in their Tawjihiyya (Saudi Secondary School Certificate) for undergraduate programs, or a 3.0/4.0 GPA from a recognized Saudi university for postgraduate applications. English proficiency requirements include IELTS 6.0-7.0 overall (no component below 5.5), depending on your chosen program. Some scholarships have additional requirements, such as leadership experience for the Business Excellence Award or portfolio submission for Media Innovation Scholarship.

How much financial support can Saudi students receive at Bournemouth University?

Saudi students can receive between £2,500 and £5,000 annually through the International Merit Scholarship, with additional regional scholarships worth £3,000 per year specifically for Middle Eastern students. Subject-specific awards range from £3,500-£4,000. In total, a Saudi student could potentially receive up to £8,000 in annual scholarship funding, significantly reducing the £16,500-£18,500 annual tuition fees. Living costs in Bournemouth are approximately £14,000-£18,500 per year including accommodation.

What is the application deadline for 2026 scholarships at Bournemouth University?

The main scholarship application deadline for September 2026 entry is May 31, 2026. However, scholarship applications open in January 2026, and early applications are strongly recommended as some awards are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. University applications should be submitted by March 2026 for international students to allow sufficient time for visa processing. Students planning to apply should begin preparation in December 2025 to ensure all documents are ready.

How does studying at Bournemouth University align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030?

Bournemouth University's programs strongly align with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives, particularly in diversifying the economy and developing tourism, media, and business sectors. BU's industry-focused approach in hospitality, digital media, cybersecurity, and sustainable business practices directly supports the Kingdom's transformation goals. The university's 94% graduate employment rate and strong industry connections provide Saudi students with skills needed for Vision 2030 projects like NEOM, Red Sea Development, and Qiddiya entertainment city.

Can Saudi students combine university scholarships with government funding programs?

Yes, Saudi students can often combine BU scholarships with government funding programs such as the King Abdullah Scholarship Program or Ministry of Education scholarships. However, students must declare all funding sources during application and ensure compliance with both BU scholarship terms and Saudi government scholarship conditions. Some government programs require students to return to Saudi Arabia after graduation, which should be considered when planning your studies. It's advisable to consult with both BU's international office and your Saudi scholarship provider to ensure compatibility.

What support services are available for Saudi students at Bournemouth University?

Bournemouth University provides comprehensive support for Saudi students including pre-arrival English courses, cultural orientation programs, and an active Islamic Society with prayer facilities on campus. The university offers halal dining options, celebrates Islamic holidays, and has a dedicated Middle Eastern Student Network. Academic support includes personal tutoring, study skills workshops, and career guidance specifically tailored for international students. The International Student Support team provides visa guidance, accommodation assistance, and help with practical matters like opening bank accounts and registering with healthcare services.

What are the career prospects for Saudi graduates from Bournemouth University?

Saudi graduates from Bournemouth University have excellent career prospects, with many securing positions in major Saudi companies like Saudi Aramco, NEOM, and Red Sea Development Company. The university's 94% graduate employment rate, combined with the two-year UK Graduate Visa route, provides flexibility for gaining international experience before returning to Saudi Arabia. BU's strong industry connections, placement year opportunities, and alumni network of over 2,000 graduates working across the Middle East create valuable career pathways. Many graduates also leverage their UK qualifications to advance within Saudi Arabia's rapidly growing tourism, media, and technology sectors.

Key Takeaways

✅ Multiple scholarship opportunities available for Saudi students, with awards ranging from £2,500 to £5,000 annually through various programs

✅ Application deadline is May 31, 2026 for September entry, with scholarship applications opening in January 2026

✅ Minimum requirements include 85% Tawjihiyya for undergraduates and 3.0 GPA for postgraduates, plus IELTS 6.0-7.0

✅ BU's programs align strongly with Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in tourism, media, business, and technology sectors

✅ Comprehensive support services available including Islamic Society, halal dining, and dedicated Middle Eastern student networks

✅ Excellent career prospects with 94% graduate employment rate and strong connections to Saudi employers like Aramco and NEOM projects