Quick Answer: Saudi students can study in the UK by meeting academic requirements (typically 75-85% in secondary school), achieving IELTS 6.0-7.0, and obtaining a Student visa. Total annual costs range from £25,000-45,000 including tuition and living expenses, with scholarships available through SACM and universities.

The United Kingdom continues to be one of the top destinations for Saudi students seeking world-class education in 2026. With over 20,000 Saudi students currently studying in UK universities, the country offers exceptional academic opportunities, cultural diversity, and strong career prospects upon graduation.

This comprehensive guide covers everything Saudi students need to know about studying in the UK, from application requirements and visa procedures to funding options and cultural adaptation tips.

Why UK Universities Attract Saudi Students

Academic Excellence and Recognition

UK universities consistently rank among the world's best, with institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, and UCL leading global rankings. For Saudi students, UK degrees are highly valued by employers in Saudi Arabia, particularly in sectors like engineering, medicine, business, and technology.

The Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) ensures all UK degrees meet rigorous standards, making them internationally recognized and respected. This is particularly important for Saudi students planning to return home, as UK qualifications are well-regarded by Saudi employers and government agencies.

Strong Saudi-UK Educational Partnership

The Saudi Cultural Mission in the UK (SACM) has facilitated educational exchanges for decades, creating a supportive network for Saudi students. In 2026, this partnership continues to strengthen, with new initiatives supporting Saudi students in STEM fields and research programs.

Academic Requirements for Saudi Students

Secondary School Qualifications

Saudi students with a General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihiyah) typically need:

• Undergraduate programs: Minimum 75-85% overall grade, depending on the university and course
• Competitive courses (Medicine, Engineering): 90%+ may be required
• Foundation programs: Available for students with 70-75% who need additional preparation

English Language Requirements

IELTS remains the most widely accepted English test for UK universities:

• Undergraduate programs: IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall (no band below 5.5)
• Postgraduate programs: IELTS 6.5-7.0 overall (no band below 6.0)
• Medicine/Law programs: IELTS 7.0-7.5 overall

Alternatively, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English qualifications are accepted by most universities.

Foundation Year Options

Many Saudi students benefit from foundation year programs, which provide:

• Academic preparation in chosen subjects
• Intensive English language support
• UK study skills development
• Cultural orientation

Top foundation providers include INTO, Study Group, Kaplan, and university-run programs at institutions like UCL, King's College London, and University of Manchester.

UK Student Visa Process for Saudi Citizens

Student Visa Requirements

Saudi students need a Student visa (formerly Tier 4) to study in the UK. Key requirements include:

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK institution
• Financial evidence: £1,334 per month for London, £1,023 for outside London (for up to 9 months)
• Academic qualifications meeting course entry requirements
• English language proficiency at required level
• Tuberculosis test from approved clinic in Saudi Arabia

Visa Application Process

1. Receive CAS from your chosen university
2. Complete online application on gov.uk
3. Book biometric appointment at VFS Global center in Riyadh or Jeddah
4. Submit documents and biometric data
5. Receive decision (typically 3 weeks for standard service)

The current visa fee is £363 for applications made outside the UK, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 per year.

Costs of Studying in UK for Saudi Students

Tuition Fees 2026

• Undergraduate programs: £20,000-35,000 per year
• Postgraduate taught: £22,000-40,000 per year
• Postgraduate research: £25,000-45,000 per year
• Medicine/Veterinary: £35,000-50,000 per year

Living Expenses

London: £12,000-15,000 per year Outside London: £9,000-12,000 per year

This covers accommodation, food, transport, books, and personal expenses.

Accommodation Options

• University halls: £150-250 per week
• Private student accommodation: £180-300 per week (London), £120-200 (other cities)
• Shared houses: £100-180 per week
• Homestay: £140-200 per week

Funding and Scholarships for Saudi Students

Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) Scholarships

SACM continues to offer comprehensive scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, covering:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly stipend (£1,200-1,500 depending on degree level)
• Annual book allowance
• Health insurance
• Return flights to Saudi Arabia

University-Specific Scholarships

Many UK universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including:

• Imperial College London: President's Scholarship (up to £2,000)
• University of Edinburgh: Edinburgh Global Scholarships (£5,000)
• University of Manchester: International Excellence Scholarships (£3,000-5,000)
• King's College London: International Scholarships (25% tuition reduction)

External Funding Options

• Chevening Scholarships: For postgraduate study (covers full costs)
• Commonwealth Scholarships: For developing country students
• British Council scholarships: Various programs available

Best UK Universities for Saudi Students

Top Choices by Field

Engineering & Technology:

• Imperial College London
• University of Cambridge
• University of Oxford
• UCL (University College London)

Business & Management:

• London Business School
• University of Cambridge (Judge)
• University of Oxford (Saïd)
• Imperial College Business School

Medicine & Health Sciences:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• King's College London

Computer Science & IT:

• University of Cambridge
• Imperial College London
• University of Edinburgh
• UCL

Application Timeline and Process

UCAS Application for Undergraduate

• September 2025: Applications open
• October 15, 2025: Oxford/Cambridge deadline
• January 29, 2026: Main deadline for most courses
• March-May 2026: University decisions
• August 2026: A-level results and Clearing

Direct Applications for Postgraduate

• October 2025-January 2026: Submit applications
• February-April 2026: Interview period
• May-June 2026: Final decisions
• September 2026: Course start dates

Cultural Adaptation and Support Services

Islamic Facilities and Halal Options

Most UK universities provide excellent support for Muslim students:

• Prayer rooms available on all campuses
• Halal dining options in university catering
• Islamic societies for community and support
• Chaplaincy services including Islamic chaplains

Saudi Student Communities

Large Saudi student communities exist in major UK cities, providing:

• Cultural events and celebrations
• Academic support networks
• Social gatherings and networking
• Arabic-speaking support services

Career Prospects and Graduate Routes

Graduate Visa (Post-Study Work)

The UK Graduate visa allows international students to stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) after completing their studies to work or look for work. This is particularly valuable for Saudi students seeking international work experience.

Employment Opportunities

UK graduates are highly sought after in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 sectors:

• Technology and digital transformation
• Healthcare and biotechnology
• Engineering and construction
• Financial services
• Renewable energy

Many Saudi students also secure employment with UK companies before returning home, gaining valuable international experience.

Getting Started with Your UK Study Journey

Studying in the UK as a Saudi student offers incredible opportunities for personal and professional growth. The combination of world-class education, cultural diversity, and strong career prospects makes it an investment in your future.

To begin your application process and get personalized guidance on choosing the right university and course for your goals, start your UK study journey with expert support tailored specifically for international students.

Next Steps

Begin by researching universities and courses that align with your career goals, prepare for English language tests, and connect with current Saudi students in the UK through social media groups and university societies. With proper planning and preparation, your UK education journey can be both successful and rewarding.

Key Statistics

📊 Over 20,000 Saudi students currently study in UK universities as of 2026, making Saudi Arabia one of the top source countries

💰 Total annual costs for Saudi students range from £25,000-45,000 including tuition and living expenses in 2026

🎓 95% of Saudi graduates from UK universities secure employment within 6 months of graduation

📈 SACM scholarships cover full tuition plus £1,200-1,500 monthly stipend for eligible Saudi students

🏆 UK universities hold 4 of the top 10 positions in global university rankings for 2026

⏱️ Standard Student visa processing time is 3 weeks for Saudi applicants in 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for a UK Student visa as a Saudi citizen?

Saudi citizens need to obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK university first, then complete the online visa application on gov.uk. You'll need to attend a biometric appointment at VFS Global centers in Riyadh or Jeddah, provide financial evidence (£1,334/month for London, £1,023 for other cities), and submit academic qualifications. The visa fee is £363 plus £624 per year Immigration Health Surcharge, with processing typically taking 3 weeks.

What are the English language requirements for Saudi students?

Most UK universities require IELTS scores of 6.0-6.5 for undergraduate programs and 6.5-7.0 for postgraduate programs, with no individual band below 5.5-6.0 respectively. Competitive programs like Medicine and Law typically require IELTS 7.0-7.5. Alternative tests like TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and Cambridge English are also accepted by most institutions.

How much does it cost for Saudi students to study in the UK in 2026?

Annual tuition fees range from £20,000-35,000 for undergraduate programs and £22,000-45,000 for postgraduate programs. Living expenses add £9,000-12,000 outside London or £12,000-15,000 in London. Total annual costs typically range from £25,000-45,000, though this varies significantly by university and course type.

What scholarships are available for Saudi students studying in the UK?

The Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) offers comprehensive scholarships covering full tuition fees plus monthly stipends of £1,200-1,500. UK universities also provide international scholarships, such as Imperial College's President's Scholarship (£2,000) and Manchester's International Excellence Scholarships (£3,000-5,000). Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are additional external funding options available to Saudi students.

What academic qualifications do Saudi students need for UK universities?

Saudi students with a General Secondary Education Certificate (Tawjihiyah) typically need 75-85% overall for undergraduate programs, with competitive courses requiring 90%+. Foundation year programs are available for students with 70-75% who need additional preparation. The qualifications must be accompanied by meeting English language requirements and specific subject prerequisites depending on the chosen course.

Can Saudi students work while studying in the UK?

Yes, Saudi students on a Student visa can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. After graduation, the Graduate visa allows students to stay for 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates) to work or search for employment. This provides valuable work experience that's highly valued by employers in Saudi Arabia, particularly in Vision 2030 priority sectors.

Key Takeaways

✅ Saudi students need 75-85% in secondary school, IELTS 6.0-7.0, and Student visa for UK study

✅ Total annual costs range from £25,000-45,000 including tuition and living expenses

✅ SACM scholarships provide full funding including tuition fees and monthly stipends for eligible students

✅ UK universities offer excellent facilities for Muslim students including prayer rooms and halal dining

✅ Graduate visa allows 2-year post-study work period, valuable for career development

✅ UK degrees are highly recognized in Saudi Arabia, especially for Vision 2030 priority sectors