Quick Answer: Teesside University offers several scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Scholarship (up to £3,000), Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£5,000), and country-specific awards. Saudi students can also access SACM funding and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia scholarships, with total funding potentially covering 50-100% of tuition fees ranging from £15,000-£18,500 annually.

Introduction to Teesside University for Saudi Students

Teesside University, located in Middlesbrough, England, has emerged as a popular destination for Saudi students seeking quality higher education with strong industry connections. Ranked among the top 100 universities in the UK for graduate employability, Teesside offers over 250 undergraduate and postgraduate programs with a focus on practical, career-oriented learning. The university's commitment to supporting international students, particularly those from Saudi Arabia, is evident through its comprehensive scholarship programs and dedicated support services.

For Saudi students planning to study in the UK in 2026, understanding the available funding opportunities at Teesside University is crucial for making informed decisions about their educational investment. This guide provides detailed information about scholarship options, eligibility criteria, and application processes specifically designed for students from Saudi Arabia.

Teesside University International Scholarships for Saudi Students

International Excellence Scholarship

The International Excellence Scholarship is Teesside University's flagship award for overseas students, including those from Saudi Arabia. This merit-based scholarship provides:

• Award Amount: Up to £3,000 per year
• Duration: Throughout the degree program
• Eligibility: Academic excellence (minimum 3.5 GPA or equivalent)
• Application: Automatic consideration upon admission

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship

This prestigious scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential:

• Award Amount: £5,000 per year
• Criteria: Outstanding academic record and demonstrated leadership
• Selection: Highly competitive, limited places available
• Additional Benefits: Mentorship program and networking opportunities

Early Bird Scholarship

Saudi students who apply early can benefit from this time-sensitive award:

• Award Amount: £1,500 one-time payment
• Eligibility: Applications submitted before March 31, 2026
• Applicable: All undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Saudi Arabia-Specific Funding Opportunities

Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM) Scholarships

The Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission in the UK provides substantial funding for Saudi students:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living allowances, and healthcare
• Duration: Complete degree program
• Eligibility: Saudi nationals with strong academic records
• Application Process: Through SACM offices in Saudi Arabia

King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP)

This government-sponsored program supports Saudi students pursuing higher education abroad:

• Benefits: Tuition fees, monthly stipend (£1,200-£1,500), annual airfare
• Duration: Entire study period plus language preparation
• Requirements: Acceptance at approved UK institutions (Teesside included)
• Application: Through Saudi Ministry of Education

Private Sector Scholarships

Several Saudi companies and organizations offer scholarships for students studying in specific fields:

• Saudi Aramco: Engineering and technology programs
• SABIC: Chemical engineering and business studies
• Al Rajhi Bank: Finance and business administration

Subject-Specific Scholarships at Teesside

Engineering and Technology Scholarships

Teesside University's strong engineering programs are supported by industry partnerships:

• Engineering Excellence Award: £2,000 for engineering students
• Industry Partnership Scholarships: Sponsored by companies like Rolls-Royce and BP
• Women in STEM: Additional £1,000 for female students in technology

Business and Management Funding

The university's business school offers several scholarship opportunities:

• Future Leaders Scholarship: £2,500 for MBA students
• Entrepreneurship Award: £1,500 for students with business plans
• International Business Scholarship: £2,000 for relevant programs

Health and Social Care Scholarships

Supporting the growing healthcare sector needs:

• NHS Partnership Scholarship: £3,000 for nursing students
• Healthcare Innovation Award: £2,000 for healthcare-related programs
• Public Health Scholarship: £1,800 for relevant master's programs

Application Process and Requirements

General Application Guidelines

1. Submit University Application: Apply through UCAS or directly to Teesside
2. Scholarship Application: Complete separate scholarship forms where required
3. Documentation: Prepare academic transcripts, personal statements, and references
4. Deadlines: Most scholarships have deadlines between February-May 2026
5. Interview Process: Some scholarships may require video interviews

Required Documents for Saudi Students

• Certified academic transcripts with English translation
• IELTS/TOEFL scores (minimum IELTS 6.0 overall)
• Personal statement highlighting achievements and goals
• Two academic references
• Passport copy and visa documentation
• Proof of financial support (if required)

Tips for Successful Applications

Academic Excellence: Maintain high grades throughout your studies, as most scholarships are merit-based.

Personal Statement: Clearly articulate your career goals, how Teesside University fits your plans, and your potential contribution to the university community.

Early Application: Submit applications well before deadlines to improve chances of success and qualify for early bird scholarships.

Multiple Applications: Apply for several scholarships simultaneously to maximize funding opportunities.

Living Costs and Additional Financial Support

Estimated Annual Costs for Saudi Students

• Tuition Fees: £15,000-£18,500 depending on program
• Accommodation: £4,500-£7,200 per year
• Living Expenses: £8,000-£12,000 annually
• Total Annual Cost: £27,500-£37,700

Additional Support Services

Teesside University provides comprehensive support for Saudi students:

• Hardship Fund: Emergency financial assistance up to £1,000
• Payment Plans: Flexible tuition fee payment options
• Part-time Employment: Career services help find suitable work opportunities
• Budgeting Workshops: Financial literacy programs for international students

Why Choose Teesside University

Academic Excellence and Rankings

Teesside University has achieved significant recognition in recent years:

• Times Higher Education: Ranked in top 150 young universities globally
• Graduate Employability: 94% of graduates employed within 15 months
• Research Excellence: REF 2021 rated 48% of research as world-leading
• Student Satisfaction: 83% overall satisfaction rate (National Student Survey 2025)

Industry Connections and Career Prospects

The university's strong industry partnerships benefit Saudi students through:

• Placement Opportunities: 12-month industry placements in major companies
• Graduate Employment: Average starting salary of £24,000 for international graduates
• Alumni Network: Active Saudi alumni community in both UK and Saudi Arabia
• Career Services: Dedicated international student career support

Campus and Location Advantages

• Modern Facilities: £270 million invested in campus development
• Strategic Location: Easy access to major UK cities and airports
• Student Community: Over 2,000 international students from 100+ countries
• Saudi Student Society: Active community providing cultural and academic support

Alternative Funding Sources

External Scholarship Opportunities

Saudi students should also consider these additional funding sources:

• Chevening Scholarships: UK government-funded for master's students
• Commonwealth Scholarships: For specific academic fields
• British Council Scholarships: Various programs for Saudi nationals
• University-specific Partnerships: Special arrangements with Saudi institutions

When researching funding opportunities, it's beneficial to explore UK universities and compare scholarship offerings across different institutions to make the most informed decision about your educational investment.

Educational Loans and Financial Planning

For students not qualifying for full scholarships:

• Saudi Development Fund: Low-interest educational loans
• Private Education Loans: Through Saudi banks with study abroad programs
• Family Sponsorship: Structured payment plans with university
• Graduated Payment Options: Deferred payment schemes available

Application Timeline for 2026 Entry

Key Dates for Saudi Students

October 2025 - January 2026: University applications open February 2026: Scholarship application deadlines begin March 2026: UCAS application deadline for most programs April 2026: Scholarship selection and interview period May 2026: Final scholarship decisions announced June-July 2026: Visa applications and pre-departure preparations September 2026: Academic year begins

Conclusion

Teesside University presents excellent scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, with potential funding covering significant portions of educational costs. By combining university scholarships with Saudi government programs and external funding sources, students can make their UK education more affordable and accessible. The key to success lies in early preparation, strong academic performance, and strategic application to multiple funding sources. Start your scholarship applications early and take advantage of Teesside University's comprehensive support system for international students.

Key Statistics

📊 94% of Teesside University graduates are employed within 15 months of graduation according to 2025 data

💰 Saudi students can access up to £8,000 annually through combined university scholarships at Teesside

🎓 Over 2,000 international students from 100+ countries study at Teesside University in 2026

📈 Teesside University invested £270 million in campus development, ranking in top 150 young universities globally

🏆 SACM and KASP programs can cover 100% of tuition fees plus living allowances for eligible Saudi students

💡 Average starting salary for Teesside international graduates is £24,000 based on 2025 employment data

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Saudi students can apply for Teesside scholarships through multiple routes. University scholarships like the International Excellence Award are automatically considered upon admission, while others require separate applications. Submit your university application first, then complete specific scholarship forms by the March 2026 deadlines. For Saudi government scholarships like SACM and KASP, apply through Saudi Ministry of Education or Cultural Mission offices. Ensure you have all required documents including certified transcripts, IELTS scores (minimum 6.0), and personal statements ready for submission.

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

The maximum university scholarship available is the Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship worth £5,000 per year. However, Saudi students can combine multiple awards - for example, receiving the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£5,000), Early Bird Scholarship (£1,500), and subject-specific awards (up to £2,000) for a total of £8,500 in the first year. Additionally, Saudi government programs like SACM and KASP can provide full tuition coverage plus living allowances, potentially worth over £30,000 annually when combined with university awards.

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

The total annual cost for Saudi students at Teesside University ranges from £27,500-£37,700. This includes tuition fees (£15,000-£18,500 depending on the program), accommodation (£4,500-£7,200), and living expenses (£8,000-£12,000). Engineering and business programs typically cost £18,500 annually, while humanities subjects are around £15,000. With scholarships, Saudi students can reduce these costs by 20-100% depending on the funding combination they secure.

What are the IELTS requirements for Saudi students applying to Teesside University scholarships?

Saudi students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 overall for most Teesside University programs and scholarships, with no individual band below 5.5. Some competitive scholarships like the Vice-Chancellor's Award may prefer higher scores (6.5-7.0). Business and engineering programs often require IELTS 6.5, while postgraduate courses may need 7.0. Students can take IELTS preparation courses in Saudi Arabia or through Teesside's pre-sessional English programs. TOEFL equivalent scores are also accepted (minimum 80 iBT).

Can Saudi students combine government scholarships with Teesside University awards?

Yes, Saudi students can often combine government scholarships with university awards, but policies vary by program. SACM scholarships typically cover full tuition, so university tuition-based awards may not be additional. However, students can often receive merit-based cash awards, accommodation scholarships, or research stipends alongside government funding. KASP program recipients should check specific terms with their sponsoring ministry. Private sector Saudi scholarships (like Saudi Aramco) can usually be combined with university awards, potentially providing comprehensive funding packages.

How does Teesside University support Saudi students beyond scholarships?

Teesside University provides comprehensive support for Saudi students including dedicated international student services, active Saudi Student Society, halal food options on campus, and prayer facilities. The university offers hardship funds up to £1,000 for emergency financial assistance, flexible payment plans for tuition fees, and career services specifically for international students. There's also a pre-arrival orientation program, airport pickup services, and ongoing academic support throughout studies. The 94% graduate employment rate demonstrates strong career support leading to successful job placements.

Key Takeaways

✅ Saudi students can access up to £8,000 annually through combined Teesside University scholarships, with government programs potentially covering full costs

✅ Early applications before March 31, 2026 qualify for additional Early Bird Scholarship worth £1,500

✅ SACM and KASP government programs provide comprehensive funding including tuition, living allowances, and healthcare for eligible Saudi nationals

✅ Teesside University ranks in top 150 young universities globally with 94% graduate employment rate within 15 months

✅ Multiple scholarship combinations are possible, allowing students to significantly reduce the total annual cost of £27,500-£37,700

✅ Strong industry partnerships provide placement opportunities and career support specifically valuable for Saudi students planning to work internationally