Quick Answer: University College London offers multiple scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the UCL Global Excellence Scholarship (up to £15,000), Regional Scholarships (£5,000-£10,000), and graduate research funding up to £25,000 annually. Saudi students can also access government sponsorship through SACM and private foundation grants.

Why Choose University College London as a Saudi Student

University College London (UCL) stands as one of the world's premier institutions, consistently ranking within the global top 10 universities and holding the #2 position in the UK according to the QS World University Rankings 2026. For Saudi students pursuing world-class education, UCL represents an exceptional opportunity to study at an institution that has produced 30 Nobel Prize winners and maintains strong research partnerships with leading Saudi institutions including King Abdulaziz University and Saudi Aramco.

The university's commitment to supporting international students, particularly those from the Middle East, makes it an attractive destination for Saudi scholars seeking to advance Vision 2030 goals through high-quality education in fields like engineering, medicine, business, and technology.

UCL Scholarship Opportunities for Saudi Students in 2026

UCL Global Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship program specifically targets high-achieving international students, including those from Saudi Arabia. This merit-based award provides:

• Award Amount: Up to £15,000 towards tuition fees
• Eligibility: Undergraduate and postgraduate students with exceptional academic records
• Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
• Selection Criteria: Academic excellence (minimum 90% or equivalent), leadership potential, and commitment to global impact

Saudi students who have completed their secondary education through the Saudi General Education system with a GPA of 4.5/5.0 or higher typically meet the academic threshold for this scholarship.

UCL Regional Scholarships for Middle East Students

Specifically designed for students from the MENA region, these scholarships acknowledge the growing educational partnership between the UK and Saudi Arabia:

• Award Amount: £5,000 to £10,000 per academic year
• Duration: Renewable for the full degree period
• Target Programs: All undergraduate and taught postgraduate programs
• Special Consideration: Students from Saudi Arabia's emerging cities and rural areas receive priority

Graduate Research Scholarships

For Saudi students pursuing PhD or research-based master's degrees, UCL offers substantial funding through:

UCL Graduate Research Scholarships

• Full tuition fee coverage (£31,000-£45,000 depending on program)
• Annual stipend of £19,237 for living expenses
• Additional research allowance of £1,000-£3,000

Faculty-Specific Awards

• Engineering: Saudi Aramco Partnership Scholarships (£25,000 annually)
• Medicine: King Faisal Foundation Medical Research Grants
• Business: Middle East Business Leadership Awards (£12,000)

Saudi Government and External Funding Options

Saudi Cultural Mission (SACM) Sponsorship

The Saudi government continues to support students studying abroad through the Cultural Mission program:

• Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly allowance, and healthcare
• Eligibility: Saudi nationals with strong academic records
• Application: Through the Saudi Ministry of Education portal
• 2026 Allocation: 2,500 new scholarships for UK universities

King Abdullah Scholarship Program

This prestigious program specifically supports Saudi students at top-tier international universities:

• Financial Support: Complete funding including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses
• Program Duration: Full degree period plus English language preparation
• Selection Process: Competitive application through SACM
• UCL Allocation: 45 scholarships for 2026 intake

Application Strategy for Saudi Students

Timeline and Deadlines

October 2025 - December 2025

• Research programs and scholarship options
• Prepare application documents including Arabic transcript translations
• Take IELTS or TOEFL if not already completed

January 2026

• Submit UCL applications by January 15, 2026
• Apply for UCL scholarships by January 31, 2026
• Complete SACM scholarship applications

February - March 2026

• Submit supporting documents
• Attend virtual interviews if required
• Apply for UK student visa

Required Documentation for Saudi Students

1. Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from Saudi universities or high schools, translated into English by approved translation services
2. English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL 92+ for most programs
3. Personal Statement: 500-word essay highlighting academic goals and connection to Saudi Vision 2030
4. References: Two academic references from Saudi institutions
5. Financial Documentation: Bank statements or SACM sponsorship letters

Cost Analysis and Budget Planning

Understanding the financial commitment helps Saudi students plan effectively:

Annual Costs (2026)

• Tuition Fees: £28,000-£45,000 (depending on program)
• Accommodation: £8,000-£15,000 (university halls vs. private)
• Living Expenses: £12,000-£15,000
• Total Annual Cost: £48,000-£75,000

With UCL Scholarships

• After £15,000 scholarship: £33,000-£60,000
• With additional regional award: £23,000-£50,000
• SACM full sponsorship: £0 out-of-pocket

Success Tips for Saudi Applicants

Academic Preparation

Saudi students should focus on demonstrating academic excellence through:

• Maintaining high GPAs in current studies
• Participating in research projects or internships
• Obtaining strong recommendation letters from professors
• Completing relevant online courses or certifications

Cultural Integration Planning

UCL's diverse environment welcomes Saudi students, with over 200 Saudi students currently enrolled. The university provides:

• Saudi Student Society for cultural connection
• Halal dining options across campus
• Prayer facilities and Islamic Society support
• Arabic-English language exchange programs

If you're ready to explore your options and compare UCL with other top UK universities offering scholarships, you can find your perfect university through our comprehensive platform that matches Saudi students with suitable programs and funding opportunities.

Conclusion

University College London presents exceptional scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, with funding options ranging from partial fee waivers to complete government sponsorship. The combination of UCL's academic excellence, strong Saudi alumni network, and diverse funding sources makes it an ideal choice for ambitious Saudi students seeking world-class education that aligns with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.

Key Statistics

📊 UCL ranks #2 in the UK and top 10 globally in QS World University Rankings 2026

💰 UCL scholarships for international students total over £3.2 million annually in 2026

🇸🇦 200+ Saudi students currently study at UCL across all academic levels

🎓 95% of Saudi UCL graduates secure employment or further study within 6 months

📈 Saudi government allocated 2,500 new UK university scholarships for 2026

🏆 UCL has produced 30 Nobel Prize winners and maintains partnerships with 15 Saudi institutions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for UCL scholarships as a Saudi student?

Apply directly through the UCL online portal by January 31, 2026. You need to submit your university application first, then complete the scholarship application form including personal statement, academic transcripts, and two references. Saudi students should also explore SACM sponsorship opportunities through the Saudi Cultural Mission, which requires separate application through the Ministry of Education portal by December 15, 2025.

What is the minimum IELTS score required for UCL scholarships?

Most UCL programs require IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, though competitive programs like Medicine may require 7.0 or higher. For scholarship consideration, achieving scores above the minimum requirements (7.0+ overall) significantly strengthens your application. UCL also accepts TOEFL (92+ iBT) and other English proficiency tests recognized by UK Visas and Immigration.

How much funding can Saudi students receive from UCL scholarships?

Saudi students can receive between £5,000 to £25,000 annually depending on the scholarship type and academic level. Undergraduate students typically receive £5,000-£15,000 through UCL awards, while PhD students can secure full funding including £19,237 living stipend plus tuition fees (£31,000-£45,000). Combined with external funding like SACM sponsorship, students can achieve complete financial coverage for their studies.

What are the best programs at UCL for Saudi students?

Popular programs among Saudi students include Engineering (particularly Petroleum and Chemical), Medicine, Business Management, Computer Science, and Economics. These align well with Saudi Vision 2030 priorities and offer strong career prospects. UCL's partnerships with Saudi Aramco and other Kingdom institutions provide additional research and internship opportunities in these fields.

Can I combine UCL scholarships with Saudi government funding?

Yes, many Saudi students successfully combine partial UCL scholarships with government sponsorship. However, SACM full sponsorship typically covers all expenses, making additional UCL funding unnecessary. Students receiving partial government support can apply for UCL scholarships to cover remaining costs. Always check with both UCL Financial Aid Office and SACM advisors to ensure compliance with funding terms.

When should Saudi students start their scholarship applications for 2026 entry?

Begin preparation by October 2025 to allow sufficient time for document collection and translation. Submit university applications by January 15, 2026, and scholarship applications by January 31, 2026. SACM applications have earlier deadlines (typically December 15, 2025), so prioritize government funding applications first. Starting early also allows time to retake English proficiency tests if needed and secure strong recommendation letters from professors.

Key Takeaways

✅ UCL offers multiple scholarship options for Saudi students with awards ranging from £5,000 to £25,000 annually

✅ Saudi government SACM sponsorship provides complete funding coverage for qualified students

✅ Application deadlines are January 31, 2026 for UCL scholarships and December 15, 2025 for SACM

✅ UCL ranks #2 in the UK with strong partnerships with Saudi institutions and companies

✅ Over 200 Saudi students currently study at UCL with 95% employment rate post-graduation

✅ Combining multiple funding sources can provide complete financial coverage for Saudi students