Quick Answer: University of Hertfordshire offers multiple scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including International Excellence Scholarships worth up to £3,000 and country-specific awards. Saudi students need a minimum 2.1 equivalent GPA and IELTS 6.0 overall to qualify for most scholarships, with applications typically due by June 30th for September intake.

Introduction

The University of Hertfordshire has become an increasingly popular destination for Saudi students seeking quality UK education with financial support. Located just 25 minutes from central London, this institution offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, modern facilities, and substantial scholarship opportunities specifically designed for international students from Saudi Arabia.

This comprehensive guide covers all available scholarships, eligibility requirements, application processes, and strategic tips to maximize your chances of securing funding for your studies at the University of Hertfordshire in 2026.

University of Hertfordshire Overview for Saudi Students

The University of Hertfordshire ranks among the top 350 universities globally according to the QS World University Rankings 2026 and holds a prestigious Gold rating in the UK's Teaching Excellence Framework. With over 3,000 international students from 85+ countries, the university provides a truly multicultural environment that Saudi students find welcoming and supportive.

The university's Hatfield campus features state-of-the-art facilities including the £120 million Science and Technology Research Institute and award-winning student accommodation. For Saudi students, the proximity to London while maintaining lower living costs compared to the capital city makes it an attractive choice.

Main Scholarship Opportunities for Saudi Students 2026

1. International Excellence Scholarships

The flagship scholarship program offers awards ranging from £1,500 to £3,000 per year for the duration of your course. These merit-based scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate Saudi students.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum academic achievement equivalent to UK 2.1 honors degree
• IELTS score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5
• Acceptance to a full-time degree program
• Demonstrated academic excellence in previous studies

Award Amounts:

• £3,000 annually: Students with exceptional academic records (equivalent to First Class honors)
• £2,000 annually: Students with strong academic performance (high 2.1 equivalent)
• £1,500 annually: Students meeting minimum 2.1 equivalent requirements

2. Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships

Limited to 20 exceptional international students annually, these prestigious awards provide £5,000 per year plus additional mentorship opportunities. Saudi students with outstanding academic achievements and leadership experience are particularly encouraged to apply.

3. Country-Specific Saudi Arabia Scholarships

The university offers dedicated funding for Saudi students through partnerships with Saudi educational institutions and government programs. These scholarships typically provide £2,000-£4,000 annually and may include additional benefits such as airport pickup and orientation support.

4. Faculty-Specific Awards

Business School Scholarships: £2,500 annually for Saudi students enrolling in MBA or MSc programs Engineering Scholarships: £3,000 for Saudi students in engineering disciplines Creative Arts Funding: £1,800 for students in design, media, and creative industries

Application Process and Timeline

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Submit University Application First (Deadline: Various throughout the year)

   • Apply through UCAS for undergraduate programs or directly for postgraduate courses
   • Ensure all academic transcripts are certified and translated into English

2. Scholarship Application Submission (Deadline: June 30, 2026)

   • Complete the online scholarship application form
   • Submit required documentation including academic transcripts, English proficiency certificates, and personal statement

3. Additional Requirements for Saudi Students:

   • Saudi Cultural Mission approval letter (if applicable)
   • Certified copies of Saudi secondary school certificates or university degrees
   • Bank statements demonstrating financial need (for need-based scholarships)

4. Selection Process (July-August 2026)

   • Initial screening based on academic merit
   • Final selection considers academic achievement, personal statement quality, and potential contribution to university community

5. Award Notification (September 2026)

   • Successful candidates receive official scholarship offers
   • Scholarships are applied directly to tuition fees

Essential Documents for Saudi Applicants

Saudi students must prepare specific documentation to strengthen their scholarship applications:

• Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from Saudi universities or secondary schools, translated and certified
• English Proficiency: IELTS Academic or TOEFL scores meeting minimum requirements
• Personal Statement: 500-word essay highlighting academic goals, career aspirations, and why you chose University of Hertfordshire
• Reference Letters: Two academic references from teachers or professors familiar with your work
• Saudi-Specific Documents: National ID, family book (if applicable), and any government scholarship documentation

Living Costs and Financial Planning for Saudi Students

Understanding the total cost of studying at University of Hertfordshire helps Saudi students plan their finances effectively:

Annual Tuition Fees (2026-27):

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

Living Expenses (Annual Estimates):

• Accommodation: £6,000-£9,000 (university housing recommended for first year)
• Food and groceries: £2,500-£3,500
• Transportation: £800-£1,200
• Books and supplies: £500-£800
• Personal expenses: £1,500-£2,500

Total Annual Budget: £26,300-£32,000 including tuition and living expenses

With scholarships reducing costs by £1,500-£5,000 annually, Saudi students can achieve significant savings while pursuing their UK education goals.

Strategic Tips for Saudi Scholarship Applicants

Academic Excellence Requirements

Saudi students should focus on maintaining strong academic performance as most scholarships are merit-based. For those completing Saudi secondary education, achieving grades equivalent to UK A-levels (80%+ average) significantly improves scholarship prospects.

English Language Preparation

Invest time in achieving IELTS scores above minimum requirements. While 6.0 overall meets basic eligibility, scoring 6.5 or 7.0 demonstrates strong English proficiency and enhances your application competitiveness.

Cultural Bridge Emphasis

In personal statements, highlight how your Saudi background and experiences will contribute to the university's international community. Discuss specific projects, volunteer work, or leadership roles that demonstrate your ability to bridge cultural gaps.

Early Application Benefits

Submitting applications early in the cycle (by April 2026) provides advantages including better accommodation options and priority consideration for competitive scholarships.

Alternative Funding Sources

While university scholarships form the primary funding source, Saudi students can explore additional opportunities:

• Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission (SACM): Government-sponsored scholarships for exceptional students
• King Abdullah Scholarship Program: Comprehensive funding including tuition, living allowances, and health insurance
• Private Saudi Foundations: Various organizations offer educational grants for international study
• External UK Scholarships: Chevening Scholarships and Commonwealth awards for postgraduate students

For comprehensive information about studying abroad options, Saudi students can browse all universities to compare scholarship opportunities across different UK institutions.

Application Success Strategies

Maximize your scholarship success by following these proven strategies:

Academic Portfolio Development: Compile a comprehensive academic portfolio showcasing research projects, publications, or significant coursework relevant to your intended field of study.

Community Engagement Documentation: Highlight volunteer work, community service, or leadership roles in Saudi organizations that demonstrate your commitment to making positive contributions.

Career Goal Alignment: Clearly articulate how your University of Hertfordshire education aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives and your role in the kingdom's economic diversification.

Professional References: Secure references from professors, employers, or community leaders who can speak to your academic potential and character.

Conclusion

University of Hertfordshire scholarships provide excellent opportunities for Saudi students to pursue quality UK education with substantial financial support. With awards ranging from £1,500 to £5,000 annually and comprehensive support services, the university demonstrates strong commitment to international student success. Start your application process early and prepare thoroughly to maximize your chances of securing funding for your 2026 academic journey.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Hertfordshire ranks in top 350 globally in QS World University Rankings 2026

💰 International scholarships range from £1,500 to £5,000 annually with automatic renewal

🎓 Over 3,000 international students from 85+ countries create diverse learning environment

📈 85% of international scholarship recipients maintain funding throughout their degree program

🏆 Gold rating in UK Teaching Excellence Framework demonstrates outstanding teaching quality

💡 £120 million investment in Science and Technology Research Institute completed in 2025

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

First, submit your university application through UCAS (undergraduate) or directly (postgraduate). Then complete the online scholarship application by June 30, 2026, including academic transcripts, IELTS scores, personal statement, and reference letters. Saudi students need certified and translated documents, plus any Saudi Cultural Mission approval if applicable. The selection process runs July-August with notifications in September 2026.

What are the minimum requirements for Saudi students to qualify for scholarships?

Saudi students need academic achievement equivalent to UK 2.1 honors degree (approximately 80%+ average in Saudi grading system) and IELTS 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5. You must have acceptance to a full-time degree program and demonstrate academic excellence in previous studies. Some specialized scholarships may have higher requirements, such as the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship requiring exceptional academic records.

How much can Saudi students save through University of Hertfordshire scholarships?

Saudi students can receive £1,500-£5,000 annually through various scholarship programs. With undergraduate tuition fees of £15,000-£16,500 and postgraduate fees of £16,000-£18,500, scholarships can reduce costs by 10-30% annually. Over a three-year degree, total savings range from £4,500 to £15,000, making UK education significantly more affordable for Saudi families.

What is the difference between International Excellence Scholarships and country-specific awards?

International Excellence Scholarships are merit-based awards open to all international students, offering £1,500-£3,000 based purely on academic achievement. Country-specific Saudi Arabia scholarships provide £2,000-£4,000 annually and are reserved exclusively for Saudi nationals, often including additional support like orientation programs and cultural activities. Both are renewable throughout your degree program with maintained academic performance.

How does University of Hertfordshire support Saudi students beyond scholarships?

The university provides comprehensive support including dedicated international student advisors, Arabic-speaking staff members, halal food options across campus, prayer facilities, and active Saudi Student Society. Located 25 minutes from London, students access both campus community and major city opportunities. The university also partners with Saudi Cultural Mission to ensure smooth visa and academic processes.

Can Saudi students combine university scholarships with government funding?

Yes, Saudi students can often combine University of Hertfordshire scholarships with Saudi government funding programs like King Abdullah Scholarship Program or Saudi Cultural Mission awards. However, you must declare all funding sources during application and ensure total awards don't exceed tuition and living costs. The university works closely with Saudi authorities to coordinate funding and ensure compliance with both UK and Saudi regulations.

Key Takeaways

✅ Scholarships worth £1,500-£5,000 annually available for Saudi students with 2.1 equivalent GPA

✅ June 30, 2026 deadline for scholarship applications - apply early for best accommodation options

✅ IELTS 6.0 minimum required, but higher scores improve competitiveness significantly

✅ University ranks top 350 globally with Gold teaching rating and £120M research investment

✅ Saudi-specific support includes Arabic-speaking staff, halal food, and cultural societies

✅ Scholarships renewable throughout degree program with maintained academic performance