Quick Answer: Cardiff University offers several scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Merit Scholarship (up to £5,000), Saudi Arabia Excellence Award (£10,000-£25,000), and partnerships with the Saudi Cultural Bureau. Applications typically open in January 2026 with deadlines between March-May 2026.

Introduction to Cardiff University Scholarships for Saudi Students

Cardiff University, ranked 166th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, has established itself as a premier destination for Saudi students seeking world-class education in the UK. With over 1,200 Saudi students currently enrolled, the university offers comprehensive scholarship programs specifically designed to support students from Saudi Arabia in achieving their academic goals.

This guide provides everything Saudi students need to know about securing financial support for their studies at Cardiff University, from government-backed scholarships to university-specific awards.

Cardiff University Overview: Why Saudi Students Choose Cardiff

Cardiff University stands as Wales' leading research institution, offering over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across three prestigious colleges. The university's strong reputation in engineering, medicine, business, and journalism makes it particularly attractive to Saudi students pursuing careers in these high-demand sectors.

The university's Cardiff Business School holds triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA), ranking among the top 1% of business schools worldwide. This credential is especially valuable for Saudi students planning to return home to contribute to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification goals.

Located in Cardiff, the UK's youngest capital city, students benefit from lower living costs compared to London while enjoying excellent transport links and a vibrant international community. The city's cost of living is approximately 30% lower than London, making it more accessible for Saudi students managing scholarship budgets.

Major Scholarship Opportunities for Saudi Students

Saudi Arabia Excellence Award

Cardiff University's flagship scholarship for Saudi students, the Saudi Arabia Excellence Award, provides substantial financial support ranging from £10,000 to £25,000 depending on the program level and academic merit. This scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students commencing studies in September 2026.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Saudi Arabian citizenship
• Minimum IELTS score of 6.5 overall (7.0 for some programs)
• Strong academic record (minimum 85% for undergraduate, 75% for postgraduate)
• Demonstrated leadership potential or community involvement

International Merit Scholarship

Open to all international students including Saudis, this scholarship awards £2,000-£5,000 annually based on academic excellence. The scholarship is renewable throughout the degree program, subject to maintaining satisfactory academic progress.

Cardiff University International Scholarship

This competitive scholarship offers £10,000 for the first year of study, with potential for renewal. Priority is given to students from underrepresented regions, making it particularly accessible for Saudi applicants from smaller cities or rural areas.

Subject-Specific Scholarships

Engineering and Technology: The School of Engineering offers the Saudi Engineering Excellence Scholarship worth £15,000 annually, supporting the kingdom's focus on technological advancement.

Medicine and Healthcare: Cardiff Medical School provides the Healthcare Leaders Scholarship (£20,000) for Saudi students committed to returning home to serve in the healthcare sector.

Business and Economics: The Business School offers the Future Leaders Scholarship (£12,000) specifically for students from Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

Saudi Government Scholarship Programs

King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP)

The most comprehensive funding option for Saudi students, KASP covers full tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances. Cardiff University is an approved institution under this program, making it an excellent choice for KASP recipients.

Coverage includes:

• Full tuition fees (up to £35,000 annually)
• Monthly living allowance (£1,200-£1,500)
• Annual book allowance (£500)
• Health insurance coverage
• Round-trip airfare

Ministry of Education External Scholarships

The Saudi Ministry of Education offers targeted scholarships for specific fields aligned with Vision 2030 priorities, including renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. Cardiff University's strong research programs in these areas make it an ideal destination for these specialized scholarships.

Application Process and Timeline

Application Timeline for 2026 Entry

January 2026: Scholarship applications open March 15, 2026: Early application deadline for maximum consideration May 1, 2026: Final deadline for most scholarships June 2026: Scholarship decisions announced July-August 2026: Visa application period September 2026: Program commencement

Required Documentation

Saudi students must prepare a comprehensive application package including:

1. Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts with certified English translations
2. English Language Proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL scores meeting program requirements
3. Personal Statement: 1,000-word essay outlining career goals and scholarship need
4. Reference Letters: Two academic references and one professional reference
5. Saudi Cultural Attaché Letter: Confirmation of government scholarship eligibility (if applicable)
6. Financial Documentation: Bank statements or sponsor letters demonstrating additional funding capacity

Application Tips for Success

Start Early: Begin your application process at least 12 months before intended enrollment. This allows time for IELTS preparation, document collection, and multiple application reviews.

Tailor Your Personal Statement: Connect your academic goals to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives, demonstrating how your Cardiff education will contribute to national development.

Highlight Cultural Bridge-Building: Emphasize your role as a cultural ambassador and your commitment to strengthening UK-Saudi academic partnerships.

Demonstrate Impact: Provide specific examples of leadership, community service, or academic achievements that showcase your potential for success.

Financial Planning Beyond Scholarships

Cost of Living in Cardiff

Saudi students should budget approximately £800-£1,200 monthly for living expenses in Cardiff, significantly lower than London's £1,500-£2,000 monthly costs. This includes:

• Accommodation: £400-£600/month (university halls or private housing)
• Food: £200-£300/month
• Transportation: £50-£80/month (student discounts available)
• Personal expenses: £150-£250/month

Additional Funding Sources

Beyond scholarships, Saudi students can explore:

Part-time Employment: Student visa holders can work up to 20 hours weekly during term time, earning £8-£12 per hour in typical student jobs.

Research Assistantships: Postgraduate students may secure paid research positions within their departments, providing both income and valuable academic experience.

External Grants: Organizations like the British Council and various Saudi charitable foundations offer supplementary grants for specific programs or research projects.

Support Services for Saudi Students at Cardiff

Saudi Student Society

Cardiff University's Saudi Student Society, with over 400 members, provides crucial support including:

• New student orientation programs
• Cultural events and networking opportunities
• Academic support and study groups
• Assistance with visa and scholarship applications

International Student Support

The university's International Student Support team offers specialized services including:

• Pre-arrival guidance and airport pickup
• Immigration advice and visa extensions
• Academic skills workshops
• Career counseling and job placement assistance

Islamic Facilities

Cardiff's large Muslim community ensures excellent facilities for Saudi students, including:

• On-campus prayer rooms
• Halal dining options in university restaurants
• Friday prayer services
• Islamic Society activities and events

Career Prospects and Alumni Network

Employment Outcomes

Cardiff University graduates enjoy strong employment prospects, with 95% of international graduates employed or in further study within six months of graduation. For Saudi students, this success rate is particularly high due to the kingdom's growing demand for UK-educated professionals.

Alumni Network in Saudi Arabia

Cardiff University's Saudi alumni network includes over 3,000 graduates working across various sectors, from ARAMCO and SABIC to major hospitals and universities. This network provides valuable mentorship and career opportunities for current students.

If you're exploring multiple UK institutions for your scholarship applications, you can browse all universities to compare scholarship offerings and find the best fit for your academic and financial needs.

Conclusion

Cardiff University offers exceptional scholarship opportunities for Saudi students, combining world-class education with comprehensive financial support. Start your application early and take advantage of the university's strong support network to maximize your chances of success.

Key Statistics

📊 Over 1,200 Saudi students currently study at Cardiff University, making it one of the largest Saudi communities in UK universities

💰 Cardiff University scholarships for Saudi students range from £2,000 to £25,000 annually, with government programs covering full costs up to £35,000

🎓 95% of Cardiff University international graduates are employed or in further study within 6 months of graduation

📈 Cardiff's cost of living is 30% lower than London, averaging £800-£1,200 monthly for Saudi students

🏆 Cardiff University ranks 166th globally in QS World University Rankings 2026 and holds triple accreditation for its business school

⏰ Scholarship applications for 2026 entry open in January with early deadline of March 15, 2026 for maximum consideration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Apply online through Cardiff University's scholarship portal starting January 2026. Submit your academic transcripts, IELTS scores, personal statement, reference letters, and Saudi Cultural Attaché confirmation. Early applications by March 15, 2026 receive priority consideration. Complete your university application first, then apply for scholarships separately.

What is the King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) coverage at Cardiff University?

KASP provides comprehensive funding including full tuition fees (up to £35,000 annually), monthly living allowance (£1,200-£1,500), annual book allowance (£500), health insurance, and round-trip airfare. Cardiff University is an approved KASP institution, making Saudi students eligible for full program benefits.

How much does it cost to study at Cardiff University for Saudi students?

International tuition fees range from £19,000-£35,000 annually depending on the program. Living costs average £800-£1,200 monthly in Cardiff. Total annual costs range from £28,000-£49,000, but scholarships can reduce this significantly. Engineering and medicine programs have higher fees, while arts and social sciences are more affordable.

What are the English language requirements for Saudi students at Cardiff University?

Most programs require IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 6.0. Medicine, dentistry, and some business programs require IELTS 7.0 overall. TOEFL iBT scores of 90-100 are also accepted. Cardiff offers pre-sessional English courses for students who need to improve their scores before starting their main program.

How does Cardiff University compare to other UK universities for Saudi students?

Cardiff University offers competitive advantages including lower living costs than London universities, strong Saudi alumni network of 3,000+ graduates, specialized Saudi scholarships up to £25,000, and excellent support services. The university ranks higher than many UK institutions in specific fields like journalism, engineering, and business while maintaining more affordable costs.

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

Cardiff provides comprehensive support including a 400-member Saudi Student Society, International Student Support team, pre-arrival guidance, immigration advice, Islamic facilities with prayer rooms and halal dining, career counseling, and academic skills workshops. The university also offers airport pickup services and dedicated orientation programs for new Saudi students.

Key Takeaways

✅ Cardiff University offers multiple scholarship opportunities for Saudi students ranging from £2,000 to £25,000 annually

✅ The Saudi Arabia Excellence Award provides the most substantial university funding at £10,000-£25,000 for qualified applicants

✅ KASP government scholarships cover full tuition and living expenses, with Cardiff University being an approved institution

✅ Early applications by March 15, 2026 receive priority consideration for most scholarship programs

✅ Cardiff's living costs are 30% lower than London, making scholarship funding more effective for Saudi students

✅ Strong support network includes 1,200+ current Saudi students and 3,000+ alumni providing mentorship and career opportunities

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