Quick Answer: Kingston University offers multiple scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Merit Scholarship (£4,000), Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£5,000), and country-specific awards. Saudi students can also access government funding through the King Salman Scholarship Program and SACM sponsorship, with total funding potentially covering up to 100% of tuition fees and living expenses.

Introduction

Kingston University London stands as an excellent choice for Saudi students seeking quality higher education in the UK, ranking 59th in the Guardian University Guide 2026. With its strong industry connections, diverse student body representing over 140 nationalities, and comprehensive scholarship programs, Kingston offers Saudi students numerous opportunities to achieve their academic goals without overwhelming financial burden.

This comprehensive guide explores all available scholarship opportunities for Saudi students at Kingston University in 2026, including application procedures, eligibility criteria, and strategic tips to maximize your chances of securing funding.

Kingston University: Overview for Saudi Students

Kingston University London, established in 1899, is a public research university known for its practical approach to education and strong graduate employability rates. The university consistently ranks among the top modern universities in the UK, with 94% of graduates employed or in further study within 15 months of graduation.

For Saudi students, Kingston offers particular advantages including halal food options on campus, dedicated prayer facilities, and an active Islamic Society. The university's location in South West London provides easy access to London's opportunities while maintaining a more affordable cost of living compared to central London.

Key Programs Popular with Saudi Students

• Business and Management: Accredited by AACSB and AMBA
• Engineering: Recognized by professional engineering bodies
• Computer Science: Strong industry partnerships with tech companies
• Medicine and Health Sciences: Modern facilities and clinical placements
• Architecture: Top 10 ranking in UK university league tables

Kingston University Scholarship Opportunities 2026

1. International Merit Scholarship

Award Value: £4,000 per academic year Eligibility: Saudi students with outstanding academic records Requirements:

• Minimum GPA equivalent to UK Upper Second Class (2:1)
• IELTS 6.5 overall or equivalent
• Demonstrated academic excellence in previous studies

Application Process: Automatic consideration upon admission application submission. No separate application required.

2. Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

Award Value: £5,000 (one-time payment) Eligibility: Exceptional Saudi students demonstrating leadership potential Requirements:

• Outstanding academic achievement (GPA 3.7+ equivalent)
• Evidence of leadership experience or community involvement
• Strong personal statement highlighting achievements

Application Deadline: March 31, 2026

3. Kingston Business School Excellence Scholarship

Award Value: £3,000 per year Eligibility: Saudi students enrolling in Kingston Business School programs Requirements:

• Admission to any Kingston Business School undergraduate or postgraduate program
• Minimum IELTS 6.5 or equivalent
• Previous academic performance in top 20% of cohort

4. STEM Subject Scholarships

Award Value: £2,500 per academic year Eligibility: Saudi students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics programs Requirements:

• Enrollment in eligible STEM programs
• Strong mathematical and scientific background
• IELTS 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each component

Saudi Government Scholarship Programs

King Salman Scholarship Program

Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly allowance (£1,200), annual book allowance (£500), health insurance, and return flights Eligibility: Saudi nationals with excellent academic records Application Process: Apply through the Saudi Cultural Bureau in London (SCBL) Deadline: Applications typically open in September for the following academic year

SACM (Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission) Sponsorship

Coverage: Varies based on program and student needs Benefits: Tuition fee coverage, living allowance, and academic support Requirements: Must maintain satisfactory academic progress and comply with SACM regulations

Application Strategy for Saudi Students

Timeline for 2026 Entry

September 2025: Begin researching programs and scholarship options October - November 2025: Prepare application materials and English language tests December 2025: Submit university applications and scholarship applications January - March 2026: Interview period for competitive scholarships April - May 2026: Scholarship decisions announced June - August 2026: Visa applications and pre-departure preparations

Required Documents

1. Academic Transcripts: Officially translated into English with grade equivalencies
2. English Language Certificates: IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic scores
3. Personal Statement: Tailored to specific scholarship requirements
4. Letters of Recommendation: From academic or professional references
5. CV/Resume: Highlighting achievements, work experience, and extracurricular activities
6. Financial Statements: Proof of additional funding if required

Cost Analysis for Saudi Students

Tuition Fees (2026-27 Academic Year)

• Undergraduate Programs: £16,200 - £20,500 per year
• Postgraduate Programs: £17,500 - £23,000 per year
• MBA Programs: £24,000 - £28,000 per year

Living Expenses in Kingston

• Accommodation: £8,000 - £12,000 per year (university halls)
• Food and Meals: £2,500 - £3,500 per year
• Transportation: £1,200 - £1,800 per year (student discount available)
• Personal Expenses: £1,500 - £2,500 per year

Total Annual Costs: £29,400 - £47,800 (including tuition and living expenses)

Maximizing Your Scholarship Success

Academic Excellence Tips

1. Maintain High GPA: Ensure your academic records demonstrate consistent high performance
2. English Proficiency: Achieve scores above minimum requirements to stand out
3. Relevant Experience: Gain work experience or internships in your chosen field
4. Research Skills: Demonstrate research capabilities through projects or publications

Application Enhancement Strategies

Strong Personal Statement: Address how studying at Kingston aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiatives and your career goals. Highlight specific programs or facilities that attract you to Kingston University.

Leadership Examples: Showcase community involvement, volunteer work, or leadership roles in Saudi Arabia. Universities value students who will contribute to campus diversity and community.

Clear Career Goals: Articulate how your Kingston education will benefit Saudi Arabia's development, particularly in sectors like renewable energy, healthcare, technology, or business innovation.

Additional Financial Support Options

Part-time Employment

Saudi students on Tier 4 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Kingston's location offers numerous part-time opportunities in retail, hospitality, and tutoring, with wages ranging from £10.42 - £15.00 per hour.

Emergency Hardship Fund

Kingston University maintains an emergency fund for international students facing unexpected financial difficulties. This fund provides grants (not loans) of up to £2,000 to help students continue their studies.

External Scholarship Opportunities

Saudi students should also consider external scholarships such as:

• Chevening Scholarships (for postgraduate study)
• Commonwealth Scholarships
• British Council scholarships
• Industry-specific scholarships from Saudi companies

Before making your final decision, it's worth taking time to explore UK universities and compare scholarship opportunities across different institutions to ensure you're making the most informed choice for your academic and financial situation.

Conclusion

Kingston University offers Saudi students excellent scholarship opportunities in 2026, with potential funding covering significant portions of tuition and living costs. By combining university scholarships with Saudi government programs, students can access world-class education while maintaining financial stability. Start your application process early and present a compelling case for how your studies will contribute to Saudi Arabia's future development.

Key Statistics

💰 Kingston University scholarships can reduce tuition costs by up to £5,000 per year for Saudi students in 2026

🎓 94% of Kingston University graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months of completion

📊 Over 140 nationalities are represented at Kingston University, creating a diverse learning environment

🏆 Kingston Business School holds triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS - achieved by less than 1% of business schools worldwide

📈 Saudi students can access combined funding worth up to £25,000+ annually through university and government scholarships

🌍 Kingston University ranks 59th in the Guardian University Guide 2026 among UK institutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Most Kingston University scholarships for Saudi students require a separate application submitted alongside your admission application. Start by applying for admission to your chosen program, then submit scholarship applications through the university's online portal. Some scholarships like the International Merit Scholarship are awarded automatically based on your admission application. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit applications before the specified deadlines, which typically range from March to May 2026.

What is the King Salman Scholarship Program and how does it work with Kingston University?

The King Salman Scholarship Program is a Saudi government initiative that provides comprehensive funding for Saudi students studying abroad. It covers full tuition fees, monthly living allowance (£1,200), annual book allowance (£500), health insurance, and return flights. Students must apply through the Saudi Cultural Bureau in London (SCBL) and maintain satisfactory academic progress. The program works in conjunction with Kingston University admissions, and recipients can still apply for additional university scholarships to supplement their funding.

How much can I expect to pay annually at Kingston University after scholarships?

After scholarships, Saudi students can expect to pay significantly reduced amounts depending on their funding package. With a Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£5,000) and additional merit awards, tuition costs can be reduced from £16,200-£20,500 to approximately £11,200-£15,500 annually. Students with full King Salman Program funding may have all costs covered. Total annual expenses including living costs range from £29,400-£47,800, but scholarships can reduce this to £15,000-£25,000 for well-funded students.

What are the English language requirements for Kingston University scholarships?

English language requirements vary by scholarship but generally require IELTS 6.0-6.5 overall with minimum component scores. The International Merit Scholarship requires IELTS 6.5 overall, while STEM scholarships accept IELTS 6.0 with 5.5 in each component. PTE Academic and TOEFL scores are also accepted with equivalent requirements. Saudi students should aim to exceed minimum requirements as higher English proficiency scores strengthen scholarship applications and demonstrate academic readiness.

Can I combine multiple scholarships at Kingston University?

Yes, Saudi students can often combine certain Kingston University scholarships, but there are limitations. University merit-based scholarships can typically be combined with external funding like the King Salman Program or SACM sponsorship. However, you cannot combine multiple major university scholarships (like Vice-Chancellor's and International Merit). The total scholarship value cannot exceed your tuition fees unless specifically stated. Always check with the admissions office about scholarship stacking policies for your specific situation.

What support does Kingston University provide specifically for Saudi students?

Kingston University offers comprehensive support for Saudi students including dedicated prayer facilities, halal food options on campus, and an active Islamic Society. The International Student Support team provides guidance on visa applications, accommodation, and academic adjustments. The university also has partnerships with the Saudi Cultural Bureau for seamless communication regarding government-sponsored students. Additionally, Kingston offers Arabic-speaking support staff during enrollment periods and cultural orientation programs to help Saudi students integrate successfully into UK academic life.

Key Takeaways

✅ Kingston University offers multiple scholarships worth up to £5,000 per year specifically for international students including those from Saudi Arabia

✅ Saudi government funding through King Salman Program can cover full tuition fees plus £1,200 monthly living allowance

✅ Applications for 2026 entry should begin in September 2025 with most scholarship deadlines between March-May 2026

✅ Strong academic records (GPA 3.7+ equivalent) and English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+) significantly improve scholarship chances

✅ Kingston University provides dedicated support for Muslim students including prayer facilities, halal food, and Islamic Society

✅ Combined scholarship funding can reduce total study costs from £29,400-£47,800 to £15,000-£25,000 annually