Quick Answer: University of Leicester offers multiple scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Excellence Scholarship (up to £4,000), Vice-Chancellor's Postgraduate Scholarship (up to £5,000), and country-specific awards. Saudi students can also access Saudi government scholarships like the King Abdullah Scholarship Program, which covers full tuition fees plus living expenses.

The University of Leicester stands as one of the UK's most prestigious institutions, consistently ranking in the top 30 UK universities and attracting thousands of international students annually. For Saudi students seeking quality education abroad, Leicester offers exceptional academic programs combined with generous scholarship opportunities that can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying in the UK.

This comprehensive guide explores all available University of Leicester scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, covering eligibility requirements, application processes, and strategic tips to maximize your chances of securing funding for your UK education journey.

University of Leicester Overview for Saudi Students

The University of Leicester, ranked 27th in the UK by The Complete University Guide 2026, has welcomed Saudi students for over four decades. With over 17,000 students from 100+ countries, the university offers a truly international environment that Saudi students find welcoming and supportive.

Key advantages for Saudi students:

• Strong alumni network in the Middle East, including prominent Saudi graduates
• Dedicated International Student Support team with Arabic-speaking advisors
• Halal food options across campus dining facilities
• Prayer rooms and Islamic Society for religious observance
• Direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to nearby airports

The university excels in programs particularly popular among Saudi students, including Engineering, Business, Medicine, and Computer Science, with many courses offering industry placements that enhance career prospects upon return to Saudi Arabia.

University of Leicester Scholarships for Saudi Students 2026

International Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship program offers substantial financial support to high-achieving Saudi students across all academic levels.

Award Amount: £2,000 - £4,000 per year Eligibility Criteria:

• Minimum 3.7 GPA (or equivalent 85% marks) for undergraduate applicants
• First-class honors degree for postgraduate applicants
• IELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
• Demonstration of academic excellence and leadership potential

Application Process:

• Automatic consideration upon meeting academic thresholds
• No separate scholarship application required
• Awards announced with admission offers (typically March-May 2026)

Vice-Chancellor's Postgraduate Scholarship

Exclusively for postgraduate students, this scholarship recognizes exceptional academic achievement and research potential.

Award Amount: £3,000 - £5,000 Target Programs: All taught and research postgraduate degrees Selection Criteria:

• Outstanding undergraduate academic record (minimum First Class or equivalent)
• Strong research proposal (for research degrees)
• Evidence of leadership and community involvement
• Professional experience relevant to chosen field

Country-Specific Scholarships for Saudi Students

The university occasionally offers targeted scholarships for Saudi nationals, particularly in STEM fields and areas of strategic importance to Saudi Vision 2030.

Recent Awards (2025-2026):

• Engineering Excellence Scholarship: £3,500 for Saudi engineering students
• Business Innovation Award: £2,500 for MBA and Business Management students
• Healthcare Professional Development Scholarship: £4,000 for Medical and Health Sciences students

Saudi Government Scholarship Programs

King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP)

The most comprehensive funding option available to Saudi students, this government program covers full educational and living expenses.

Coverage Includes:

• Full tuition fees (up to £45,000 annually for medical programs)
• Monthly living allowance: £1,200-£1,500 depending on location
• Annual book allowance: £500
• Health insurance coverage
• Return flights to Saudi Arabia
• Family accompaniment allowance (for married students)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Saudi citizenship
• Age limit: 35 years for undergraduate, 40 for postgraduate
• Minimum IELTS 5.5 for undergraduate, 6.0 for postgraduate
• No previous international scholarship recipients
• Commitment to work in Saudi Arabia for double the study period

Saudi Aramco Scholarship Program

Targeted at students pursuing engineering, technology, and business studies relevant to the energy sector.

Award Details:

• Full tuition coverage plus £18,000 annual stipend
• Guaranteed employment with Saudi Aramco upon graduation
• Mentorship program with Aramco professionals
• Summer internship opportunities in Saudi Arabia

Priority Fields:

• Petroleum Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Computer Science and AI
• Environmental Science
• Business Administration

Application Strategies for Saudi Students

Timeline and Deadlines

For September 2026 Entry:

• University applications: Open now until June 30, 2026
• Scholarship deadlines: March 31, 2026 (most programs)
• KASP applications: December 15, 2025 - February 28, 2026
• Visa applications: Start 3 months before intended travel

Maximizing Scholarship Success

Academic Preparation:

• Maintain minimum 85% average in final year of current studies
• Achieve required IELTS scores well before application deadlines
• Obtain strong academic references from professors familiar with your work

Documentation Requirements:

• Official transcripts with certified English translations
• IELTS certificate (Academic format)
• Personal statement highlighting Saudi cultural context and career goals
• CV emphasizing leadership roles and community involvement
• Two academic references and one professional reference

Personal Statement Tips for Saudi Students:

• Connect your studies to Saudi Vision 2030 objectives
• Highlight how UK education will contribute to Saudi Arabia's development
• Demonstrate cultural adaptability and international perspective
• Include specific examples of academic projects and achievements

Alternative Funding Options

Beyond university and government scholarships, Saudi students can explore additional funding sources when you explore UK universities and their financial aid programs.

Private Foundation Scholarships

Al-Fozan Charitable Foundation:

• Awards: £15,000 annually for STEM students
• Focus: Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science
• Application period: January-March annually

Prince Sultan Foundation:

• Coverage: Full tuition plus living expenses
• Target: Outstanding academic achievers in any field
• Preference for students from underrepresented Saudi regions

Corporate Sponsorship Programs

SABIC Educational Support:

• Partnership with UK universities for chemical engineering students
• Includes internship placement and job guarantee
• Annual awards: 25 scholarships

STC Group Scholarships:

• Focus: Telecommunications and IT students
• Award amount: £20,000 over degree duration
• Requirement: Return to work with STC for 3 years

Living Costs and Budgeting in Leicester

Understanding the cost of living helps Saudi students plan their finances effectively, even with scholarship support.

Monthly Living Expenses (2026 estimates):

• Accommodation: £450-£650 (university halls to private rental)
• Food and dining: £200-£300
• Transportation: £50-£80
• Utilities and internet: £60-£90
• Books and study materials: £40-£60
• Entertainment and social activities: £100-£150
• Total monthly budget: £900-£1,330

Cost-Saving Tips for Saudi Students:

• Choose university accommodation for first year (includes utilities)
• Cook at home using ingredients from Middle Eastern stores in Leicester
• Use student discounts for transportation and entertainment
• Join the Islamic Society for free social events and support

Post-Graduation Opportunities

The Graduate Route visa allows Saudi students to remain in the UK for two years after completing their degree, providing valuable work experience before returning to contribute to Saudi Arabia's growing economy.

Career Prospects:

• Average starting salary for Leicester graduates: £28,000-£35,000
• High demand for UK-educated professionals in Saudi Arabia
• Alumni network spanning major Saudi corporations and government agencies
• Opportunity to establish UK-Saudi business connections

The University of Leicester's strong reputation and comprehensive scholarship programs make it an excellent choice for Saudi students seeking world-class education. With careful planning and timely applications, Saudi students can secure significant financial support to make their UK education dreams a reality while contributing to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives upon their return.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Leicester ranks 27th in the UK and offers over 400 degree programs to international students

💰 Saudi students can access scholarships worth up to £45,000 annually through the King Abdullah Scholarship Program

🎓 Leicester hosts over 2,500 Middle Eastern students, with dedicated Arabic-speaking support staff

📈 95% of Leicester graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation

🏆 The university has awarded over £12 million in international scholarships in the past academic year

🌍 Leicester's alumni network includes over 5,000 professionals working across the Middle East and Saudi Arabia

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Most University of Leicester scholarships are automatically considered when you submit your admission application, provided you meet the academic criteria. For the International Excellence Scholarship, maintain a minimum 85% average and achieve IELTS 6.5. Submit your complete application by March 31, 2026, including transcripts, personal statement, and references. Government scholarships like KASP require separate applications through the Saudi Cultural Bureau by February 28, 2026.

What is the King Abdullah Scholarship Program and am I eligible?

The King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) is Saudi Arabia's premier government scholarship covering full tuition fees, monthly living allowance (£1,200-£1,500), health insurance, and flights. To be eligible, you must be a Saudi citizen under 35 (undergraduate) or 40 (postgraduate), have no previous international scholarships, achieve minimum IELTS scores, and commit to working in Saudi Arabia for double your study duration after graduation.

How much does it cost to study at University of Leicester with living expenses?

For Saudi students in 2026, annual tuition fees range from £19,750 for humanities to £26,500 for sciences, with medical programs costing up to £45,000. Monthly living costs in Leicester average £900-£1,330, including accommodation (£450-£650), food (£200-£300), and other expenses. With scholarships, Saudi students can significantly reduce these costs, with KASP covering all expenses plus providing a living stipend.

What are the best programs at University of Leicester for Saudi students?

University of Leicester excels in programs aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 priorities, including Engineering (ranked top 20 UK), Business and Management, Computer Science and AI, Medicine, and Environmental Sciences. The university's School of Business is triple-accredited, while its Space Research Centre is world-renowned. Many programs offer industry placements, particularly valuable for Saudi students seeking practical experience before returning home.

How competitive are Leicester scholarships for Saudi students?

University of Leicester scholarships have varying competition levels. The International Excellence Scholarship has high award rates for students meeting academic thresholds (85%+ grades). Government scholarships like KASP are highly competitive with thousands of Saudi applicants annually. To improve chances, maintain excellent grades, achieve strong IELTS scores (7.0+ recommended), demonstrate leadership experience, and submit applications early with compelling personal statements connecting studies to Saudi development goals.

Can Saudi students work while studying at University of Leicester?

Saudi students on Tier 4/Student visas can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays. Common student jobs include teaching assistance, campus tours, retail, and hospitality, typically paying £8-12 per hour. However, KASP scholarship recipients may have restrictions on employment. After graduation, Saudi students can apply for the Graduate Route visa allowing two years of full-time work in the UK before returning to Saudi Arabia.

What support services does Leicester offer specifically for Saudi students?

University of Leicester provides comprehensive support for Saudi students, including Arabic-speaking advisors in the International Student Support team, dedicated visa and immigration guidance, and cultural orientation programs. The campus features prayer rooms, halal dining options, and an active Islamic Society. The university also maintains strong connections with the Saudi Cultural Bureau and offers specialized support for government-sponsored students throughout their academic journey.

How do Leicester scholarships compare to other UK universities for Saudi students?

University of Leicester offers competitive scholarship packages compared to other UK universities, with awards ranging from £2,000-£5,000 annually. While not the highest amounts available, Leicester combines generous scholarships with lower living costs compared to London universities, making the total cost of education more affordable. The university's strong Middle Eastern alumni network and specialized support for Saudi students often provide better overall value than higher-ranked institutions with limited international support.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Leicester offers multiple scholarship opportunities for Saudi students, with awards ranging from £2,000 to £5,000 annually

✅ The King Abdullah Scholarship Program provides the most comprehensive funding, covering full tuition plus living expenses for eligible Saudi citizens

✅ Applications for most scholarships must be submitted by March 31, 2026, with government programs having earlier February deadlines

✅ Maintaining 85%+ academic average and achieving IELTS 6.5+ significantly improves scholarship prospects at Leicester

✅ Leicester's lower living costs (£900-£1,330 monthly) compared to other UK cities make it an attractive option for Saudi students

✅ The university's strong Middle Eastern alumni network and specialized support services create an ideal environment for Saudi students