Quick Answer: The University of Nottingham offers several scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, including the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (up to 100% tuition coverage), Global Excellence Scholarships (£4,000-£6,000), and subject-specific awards. Saudi students can also access Saudi government scholarships like the King Abdullah Scholarship Program, with application deadlines typically between December and March for September 2026 entry.

Introduction

The University of Nottingham, ranked 114th globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, has become an increasingly popular destination for Saudi students seeking world-class education in the UK. With over 1,200 international students from the Middle East and growing partnerships with Saudi institutions, Nottingham offers numerous scholarship opportunities specifically designed to support Saudi students' academic ambitions.

This comprehensive guide explores all available scholarship options for Saudi students at the University of Nottingham in 2026, including application processes, eligibility criteria, and strategic tips to maximize your funding chances.

University of Nottingham: Why Saudi Students Choose Nottingham

The University of Nottingham stands as one of the UK's premier research-intensive institutions, offering exceptional value for Saudi students. With campuses in the UK, China, and Malaysia, the university provides a truly global perspective that aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives.

Key Attractions for Saudi Students:

• Strong engineering, business, and medicine programs highly valued in Saudi job market
• Active Saudi Student Society with over 300 members
• Halal dining options and prayer facilities on campus
• Direct flights from Riyadh and Jeddah to East Midlands Airport (90 minutes to campus)
• Established pathways for Saudi government scholarship recipients

University-Specific Scholarships for Saudi Students

Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship for Excellence

The most prestigious scholarship available, offering up to 100% tuition fee coverage for exceptional Saudi students.

Key Details:

• Award Value: Up to £28,000 per year (full tuition coverage)
• Duration: Full degree duration
• Eligibility: Outstanding academic record (equivalent to 90%+ Saudi grades)
• Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
• Number Available: 10-15 scholarships annually

Global Excellence Scholarship

Designed specifically for international students from key partner countries, including Saudi Arabia.

Award Structure:

• Undergraduate: £4,000 per year
• Postgraduate Taught: £6,000 (one-time payment)
• Postgraduate Research: £8,000 per year
• Requirements: IELTS 6.5+ and strong academic performance

Subject-Specific Scholarships

Engineering Excellence Scholarship

• Value: £5,000 per year
• Focus: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical Engineering
• Special consideration for Saudi students due to Vision 2030 alignment

Business School Scholarships

• MBA Excellence: £10,000-£15,000
• MSc Finance Scholarship: £7,500
• Priority given to candidates with Saudi work experience

Saudi Government Scholarship Opportunities

King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP)

The primary pathway for Saudi students, covering full expenses for study at approved UK universities, including Nottingham.

Coverage Includes:

• Full tuition fees (up to £35,000 annually)
• Monthly stipend (£1,200-£1,500)
• Annual flight tickets
• Health insurance
• Family allowances (for PhD students)

2026 Application Timeline:

• Application Opens: October 2025
• Deadline: January 15, 2026
• Results: April 2026

Ministry of Education Scholarships

Specialized funding for priority fields identified in Saudi Vision 2030:

• STEM Fields: Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine
• Business & Economics: MBA, Finance, Economics
• Renewable Energy: Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Development

To explore more options beyond Nottingham, you can browse all universities offering scholarships to Saudi students.

Application Strategy for Saudi Students

Timeline for 2026 Entry

October 2025:

• Research scholarship options
• Prepare IELTS/TOEFL (minimum 6.5 IELTS required)
• Gather academic transcripts and certificates

November 2025:

• Submit university application
• Apply for KASP (if eligible)
• Request recommendation letters

December 2025 - February 2026:

• Complete scholarship applications
• Submit supporting documents
• Prepare for potential interviews

March - May 2026:

• Scholarship decisions announced
• Accept offers and complete enrollment
• Apply for UK Student Visa

Required Documents for Saudi Students

1. Academic Credentials:

   • Secondary school certificate (Tawjihiyya) with official translation
   • University transcripts (if applicable) certified by Saudi Ministry of Education
   • Degree certificates with apostille authentication

2. English Proficiency:

   • IELTS Academic (minimum 6.5, with 6.0 in each component)
   • TOEFL iBT (minimum 87)
   • Pearson PTE Academic (minimum 62)

3. Supporting Materials:

   • Personal statement (500-1000 words)
   • Two academic reference letters
   • CV highlighting achievements and work experience
   • Portfolio (for creative subjects)

Living Costs and Additional Funding

Estimated Annual Living Expenses (Nottingham 2026)

• Accommodation: £6,000-£9,000
• Food: £3,000-£4,500
• Transportation: £800-£1,200
• Personal expenses: £2,000-£3,000
• Total: £11,800-£17,700 annually

Part-time Work Opportunities

Saudi students on Tier 4 visas can work up to 20 hours per week during studies, earning approximately £9.50-£12.00 per hour, potentially generating £8,000-£10,000 annually.

Success Stories: Saudi Alumni at Nottingham

The University of Nottingham has produced numerous successful Saudi graduates who now hold key positions in major Saudi corporations like ARAMCO, SABIC, and STC. The strong alumni network provides valuable career connections and mentorship opportunities for current students.

Notable Achievements:

• 95% employment rate within 6 months of graduation for Saudi students
• Average starting salary of £35,000-£45,000 for UK-based roles
• Strong representation in Saudi's major infrastructure projects

Application Tips for Maximum Success

Academic Excellence

• Maintain high grades throughout your studies (85%+ recommended)
• Demonstrate consistent academic improvement
• Pursue additional certifications relevant to your field

Personal Statement Strategy

• Connect your career goals to Saudi Vision 2030 objectives
• Highlight leadership experience and community involvement
• Demonstrate cultural awareness and adaptability
• Explain how Nottingham specifically aligns with your goals

Interview Preparation

• Research current UK-Saudi educational partnerships
• Prepare examples of overcoming challenges
• Demonstrate knowledge of your chosen field's relevance to Saudi development

Conclusion

The University of Nottingham presents exceptional scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, with multiple pathways to funding through both university-specific awards and Saudi government programs. With careful planning and early preparation, Saudi students can access world-class education while building valuable networks for their future careers in the Kingdom.

Key Statistics

📊 Over 1,200 Middle Eastern students currently study at University of Nottingham, with Saudi students comprising 35% of this population

💰 King Abdullah Scholarship Program covers up to £50,000 annually including tuition, living expenses, and health insurance for Saudi students

🎓 95% of Saudi graduates from University of Nottingham secure employment within 6 months, with average starting salaries of £35,000-£45,000

📈 University of Nottingham ranks 114th globally in QS World Rankings 2026, making it highly recognized in Saudi job market

🏛️ £28,000 maximum annual scholarship value available through Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship, covering full tuition for exceptional Saudi students

✈️ Direct flight connections from Riyadh and Jeddah to East Midlands Airport, just 90 minutes from campus

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for University of Nottingham scholarships as a Saudi student in 2026?

Saudi students should first submit their university application by December 2025, then complete separate scholarship applications by March 1, 2026, for university scholarships. For King Abdullah Scholarship Program, apply directly through the Saudi Ministry of Education portal between October 2025 and January 15, 2026. Required documents include certified academic transcripts, IELTS scores (minimum 6.5), personal statement, and two reference letters.

What is the King Abdullah Scholarship Program and does it cover University of Nottingham?

The King Abdullah Scholarship Program (KASP) is Saudi Arabia's premier international education funding initiative that fully covers tuition fees, living expenses, health insurance, and annual flights for Saudi students. University of Nottingham is an approved institution under KASP, with coverage up to £50,000 annually including a monthly stipend of £1,200-£1,500 for living expenses.

How much do scholarships typically cover for Saudi students at University of Nottingham?

Scholarship coverage varies significantly: Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship covers up to 100% tuition (£28,000 annually), Global Excellence Scholarships provide £4,000-£8,000 depending on study level, and King Abdullah Scholarship covers full expenses including tuition, living costs, and flights (total value up to £50,000 annually). Subject-specific scholarships typically range from £5,000-£15,000.

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

Most scholarships require IELTS Academic minimum 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component, TOEFL iBT minimum 87, or Pearson PTE Academic minimum 62. Higher-value scholarships like Vice-Chancellor's often require IELTS 7.0+. Saudi students should take these tests early as scores must be valid at application time, and some scholarships have higher requirements than general admission.

Can Saudi students combine university scholarships with government funding?

Generally, students cannot combine King Abdullah Scholarship with university scholarships as KASP covers full expenses. However, Saudi students not on government scholarships can often stack multiple university awards. For example, combining Global Excellence Scholarship with subject-specific awards is sometimes possible, but students must declare all funding sources and check terms and conditions for each scholarship.

What support does University of Nottingham provide specifically for Saudi students?

University of Nottingham offers comprehensive support including an active Saudi Student Society with 300+ members, halal dining options, on-campus prayer facilities, dedicated international student advisors familiar with Saudi culture, and pre-arrival guidance for visa applications. The university also has established partnerships with Saudi institutions and regularly hosts cultural events during Ramadan and Saudi National Day.

How competitive are scholarships for Saudi students at University of Nottingham?

Competition is significant with Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship having approximately 200+ applications for 10-15 awards annually (5-7% success rate). Global Excellence Scholarships are more accessible with 30-40% success rates for qualified applicants. King Abdullah Scholarship acceptance rates vary by field, with STEM subjects having higher approval rates. Strong academic performance (85%+ Saudi grades), relevant work experience, and well-crafted applications significantly improve chances.

What career prospects do Saudi graduates have after studying at University of Nottingham?

Saudi graduates from University of Nottingham have excellent career prospects with 95% employment rate within 6 months. Many secure positions with major Saudi corporations like ARAMCO, SABIC, STC, and government ministries. The strong alumni network provides valuable connections, and the university's reputation in Saudi Arabia commands starting salaries of £35,000-£45,000 for UK-based roles or equivalent positions in Saudi Arabia aligned with Vision 2030 initiatives.

Key Takeaways

✅ Apply early for King Abdullah Scholarship Program (deadline January 15, 2026) as it provides the most comprehensive funding coverage

✅ Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship offers up to £28,000 annually but requires exceptional academic performance (90%+ grades equivalent)

✅ IELTS 6.5+ is minimum requirement for most scholarships, but higher scores significantly improve competitiveness

✅ University of Nottingham has strong Saudi alumni network and cultural support systems making it ideal for Saudi students

✅ Multiple scholarship opportunities exist including subject-specific awards that can complement main funding sources

✅ Early preparation starting October 2025 is crucial for meeting all application deadlines and document requirements