Quick Answer: Manchester Metropolitan University offers several scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Merit Scholarship (up to £3,000), Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship (£5,000), and country-specific awards. Saudi students can also access government funding through SACM and Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques scholarships.

Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) stands as one of the most welcoming institutions for Saudi Arabian students, offering numerous scholarship opportunities and comprehensive support systems. As one of the UK's largest universities with over 38,000 students from 130+ countries, MMU provides excellent value for money while maintaining high academic standards.

For Saudi students planning their UK education journey in 2026, understanding the available Manchester Metropolitan University scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. This guide provides complete details about scholarship opportunities, eligibility criteria, and application processes specifically designed for students from Saudi Arabia.

Manchester Metropolitan University Overview for Saudi Students

Manchester Metropolitan University ranks among the top modern universities in the UK, holding positions in various national and international rankings. The university is particularly renowned for its business, engineering, and creative programs, making it an attractive destination for Saudi students pursuing diverse academic interests.

The university's main campuses are located in Manchester city center, providing students with access to one of the UK's most vibrant student cities. With strong industry connections and a focus on employability, MMU graduates achieve impressive employment rates, with 94% of students in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.

For Saudi students, MMU offers dedicated support through its International Student Services, including pre-arrival guidance, visa support, and cultural integration programs. The university has established partnerships with Saudi educational institutions and maintains strong relationships with the Saudi Cultural Mission in London.

MMU Scholarships Available for Saudi Students in 2026

International Merit Scholarship

The International Merit Scholarship represents MMU's flagship funding opportunity for outstanding international students, including those from Saudi Arabia. This scholarship awards up to £3,000 for undergraduate students and £2,500 for postgraduate students.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Academic excellence in previous studies (equivalent to UK First Class or Upper Second Class)
• Full-time study commitment
• International fee status
• New students only (not available for continuing students)

Application Process: The scholarship is automatically considered for all eligible international students who meet the academic requirements. No separate application is required, making it accessible for Saudi students who achieve the specified grades.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

This prestigious scholarship offers £5,000 to exceptional international students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement and leadership potential. The scholarship is highly competitive, with approximately 50 awards available annually.

Selection Criteria:

• Exceptional academic record
• Demonstrated leadership experience
• Strong personal statement
• Potential for future success in chosen field

Application Requirements:

• Complete scholarship application form
• Academic transcripts with certified translations
• Two academic references
• Personal statement (1,000 words)
• Evidence of leadership activities or achievements

Country-Specific Scholarships

MMU occasionally offers country-specific scholarships that may include Saudi Arabia, particularly during strategic partnership periods. These scholarships typically range from £1,000 to £2,500 and focus on specific subject areas or demographic groups.

Early Payment Discount

While not technically a scholarship, MMU offers a 3% discount on tuition fees for students who pay their full annual fees before the start of the academic year. For Saudi students receiving government funding, this discount can provide additional savings.

Saudi Government Scholarship Opportunities

Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) Scholarships

The Saudi Cultural Mission in London administers numerous scholarship programs for Saudi students studying in the UK, including those attending Manchester Metropolitan University.

Available Programs:

• King Abdullah Scholarship Program
• Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship
• Ministry of Education scholarships
• Specialized agency scholarships (Ministry of Health, etc.)

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance (approximately £1,200-1,500)
• Annual return flight to Saudi Arabia
• Health insurance
• Book allowance
• Thesis printing allowance (for research degrees)

Application Process for SACM Scholarships

Saudi students must apply through the official SACM website or through the Ministry of Education portal in Saudi Arabia. The application process typically involves:

1. Online application submission
2. Document verification (degree certificates, transcripts, IELTS scores)
3. University acceptance letter from MMU
4. Medical examination
5. Security clearance
6. Interview (for some programs)

Key Deadlines for 2026:

• Applications typically open in November 2025
• Submission deadline: January 31, 2026
• Results announcement: April-May 2026

Subject-Specific Scholarships at MMU

Business and Management Scholarships

MMU's Business School offers several scholarships for international students, particularly valuable for Saudi students pursuing MBA or specialized business degrees.

Manchester Business School Partnership Scholarship:

• Value: £2,000-4,000
• Available for: MBA and MSc Business programs
• Criteria: Professional experience and academic excellence

Engineering and Technology Scholarships

Given Saudi Arabia's focus on Vision 2030 and technological advancement, engineering scholarships at MMU are particularly relevant:

STEM Excellence Scholarship:

• Value: £3,000
• Available for: Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology programs
• Focus: Students contributing to innovation and research

Creative Arts and Design Scholarships

MMU's School of Art offers various funding opportunities for creative students:

International Creative Scholarship:

• Value: £2,500
• Available for: Art, Design, and Creative Writing programs
• Requirements: Portfolio submission and creative project proposal

Application Strategies for Saudi Students

Timeline Planning

Successful scholarship applications require careful timing. Saudi students should follow this timeline:

12-18 months before study:

• Research available scholarships
• Prepare required documents
• Take IELTS/TOEFL tests
• Begin SACM scholarship application process

6-12 months before study:

• Submit university applications
• Apply for MMU-specific scholarships
• Prepare visa documentation
• Secure accommodation

3-6 months before study:

• Finalize scholarship awards
• Complete visa applications
• Attend pre-departure briefings
• explore UK universities for additional options

Document Preparation

Saudi students should prepare the following documents in both Arabic and certified English translations:

• Academic transcripts from all institutions
• Degree certificates
• IELTS or TOEFL scores
• Passport copy
• Financial statements (if applying for partial funding)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement or essay
• CV/Resume highlighting achievements

Maximizing Scholarship Success

Academic Excellence: Maintain high grades throughout your studies, as most scholarships require strong academic performance. For Saudi students, this typically means achieving grades equivalent to UK First Class or Upper Second Class honors.

Leadership Experience: Participate in leadership activities, volunteer work, or professional organizations in Saudi Arabia. Document these experiences clearly in applications.

Research Interests: Develop clear research interests or career goals that align with UK priorities or Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives.

Living Costs and Financial Planning

Estimated Annual Costs for Saudi Students (2026)

Tuition Fees:

• Undergraduate: £15,500-17,000
• Postgraduate: £16,000-18,500
• MBA: £19,500

Living Expenses in Manchester:

• Accommodation: £4,000-8,000 (depending on type)
• Food: £2,500-3,500
• Transportation: £600-900
• Books and supplies: £500-800
• Personal expenses: £1,500-2,500

Total Annual Budget:

• Undergraduate: £24,100-32,700
• Postgraduate: £25,100-34,200

Budgeting Tips for Saudi Students

1. Consider shared accommodation to reduce housing costs
2. Cook meals at home rather than eating out frequently
3. Use student discounts available throughout Manchester
4. Budget for return flights to Saudi Arabia during holidays
5. Set aside emergency funds for unexpected expenses

Alternative Funding Sources

External Scholarships

British Council Scholarships: The British Council occasionally offers scholarships for Middle Eastern students, including those from Saudi Arabia.

Commonwealth Scholarships: While Saudi Arabia is not a Commonwealth country, some specialized programs may be available.

Private Foundation Scholarships: Various charitable organizations and foundations offer funding for international students.

Part-time Work Opportunities

Saudi students on Tier 4 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Common opportunities include:

• Campus jobs (library, student services)
• Retail positions
• Restaurant and hospitality work
• Tutoring and teaching assistance
• Research assistantships

Manchester's strong job market provides numerous opportunities for students to gain work experience while earning supplementary income.

Support Services for Saudi Students at MMU

International Student Services

MMU provides comprehensive support services specifically designed for international students:

• Pre-arrival guidance and orientation programs
• Visa and immigration advice
• Academic writing support
• Career guidance and placement services
• Mental health and wellbeing support

Saudi Student Community

MMU hosts an active Saudi student society that provides:

• Cultural events and celebrations
• Academic support networks
• Social activities and networking opportunities
• Liaison with the Saudi Cultural Mission
• Support for new arrivals

Islamic Facilities

Manchester has a large Muslim population, providing Saudi students with:

• Multiple mosques within walking distance of campus
• Halal food options throughout the city
• Islamic bookstores and cultural centers
• Prayer facilities on campus

Manchester Metropolitan University scholarships for Saudi students in 2026 offer excellent opportunities to pursue quality UK education with financial support. By combining university scholarships with Saudi government funding, students can significantly reduce their educational costs while gaining valuable international experience.

Conclusion

Manchester Metropolitan University provides numerous scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, ranging from merit-based awards to country-specific funding programs. Combined with Saudi government scholarships and the university's strong support services, MMU represents an excellent choice for Saudi students seeking quality UK education at an affordable cost.

Key Statistics

📊 Manchester Metropolitan University hosts over 38,000 students from 130+ countries, making it one of the UK's most diverse institutions

💰 Saudi students can access scholarships worth up to £5,000 from MMU, plus full government funding through SACM programs covering tuition and living costs

🎓 94% of MMU graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months, providing excellent career prospects for Saudi students

📈 Annual tuition fees for international students range from £15,500-19,500, with total living costs in Manchester averaging £9,100-15,700 per year

🏆 MMU offers over 200 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across five faculties, with particular strength in business, engineering, and creative arts

🌍 Manchester's large Muslim population (15.8%) provides excellent cultural support for Saudi students with numerous mosques and halal facilities

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Most MMU scholarships for Saudi students are automatically considered when you apply for admission, particularly the International Merit Scholarship. For competitive scholarships like the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship, you need to submit a separate application including academic transcripts, personal statement, and references. Saudi government scholarships through SACM require applications through the Ministry of Education portal, typically opening in November with January deadlines.

What is the maximum scholarship amount available for Saudi students at MMU?

The highest individual MMU scholarship is the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship worth £5,000. However, Saudi students can combine multiple funding sources - MMU scholarships can be combined with Saudi government funding through SACM, which covers full tuition fees plus a monthly allowance of £1,200-1,500. This combination can cover the entire cost of education and living expenses.

How much does it cost for Saudi students to study at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2026?

Total annual costs for Saudi students at MMU in 2026 range from £24,100-32,700 for undergraduates and £25,100-34,200 for postgraduates. This includes tuition fees (£15,500-19,500), accommodation (£4,000-8,000), living expenses (£4,600-7,700), and personal costs. However, with SACM government scholarships, Saudi students can have all these costs covered plus receive additional allowances.

What are the English language requirements for Saudi students applying to MMU scholarships?

Saudi students need IELTS 6.0-7.0 overall (depending on the program) or equivalent TOEFL scores to be eligible for MMU admission and scholarships. Most scholarships don't have separate language requirements beyond university admission standards. Some competitive scholarships may prefer higher scores, and students can take pre-sessional English courses if they're slightly below requirements.

Can Saudi students work while studying at Manchester Metropolitan University?

Yes, Saudi students on Tier 4 student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Manchester offers excellent part-time opportunities including campus jobs, retail positions, and tutoring roles. Average student wages range from £8-12 per hour, allowing students to earn £640-960 monthly during studies, which helps supplement scholarship funding and living expenses.

How does MMU compare to other UK universities for Saudi students seeking scholarships?

MMU offers competitive scholarship packages compared to similar UK universities, with automatic consideration for merit scholarships and dedicated international funding. The university's location in Manchester provides lower living costs than London universities while maintaining excellent industry connections. MMU's diverse international community (38,000+ students from 130+ countries) creates a welcoming environment for Saudi students, and the city's large Muslim population provides strong cultural support networks.

Key Takeaways

✅ MMU offers multiple scholarships for Saudi students including automatic merit awards up to £3,000 and competitive scholarships worth £5,000

✅ Saudi government funding through SACM can cover full tuition fees plus living allowances, making education essentially free for eligible students

✅ Manchester provides affordable living costs compared to other UK cities, with total annual expenses ranging from £24,100-34,200

✅ Students can work part-time (20 hours/week) to supplement income, with Manchester offering excellent job opportunities for international students

✅ MMU provides comprehensive support services for Saudi students including pre-arrival guidance, Islamic facilities, and an active Saudi student community