Quick Answer: University of Portsmouth offers several scholarships for Saudi students in 2026, including the International Academic Excellence Scholarship (up to £5,000), Vice-Chancellor's Global Development Scholarship (£3,000), and country-specific awards. Saudi students can also access external funding through the Saudi Cultural Mission and King Salman Scholarship Program.

Introduction

The University of Portsmouth, ranked 501-600 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, has become an increasingly popular destination for Saudi Arabian students seeking quality education in the UK. With over 28,000 students from 150+ countries, the university actively supports international students through various scholarship programs specifically designed to make UK education more accessible and affordable.

Saudi students face unique financial considerations when pursuing UK education, with total annual costs often exceeding £25,000 including tuition and living expenses. This comprehensive guide explores all available scholarship opportunities at University of Portsmouth for Saudi students in 2026, helping you navigate funding options and application processes.

University of Portsmouth: Key Information for Saudi Students

The University of Portsmouth stands out as an excellent choice for Saudi students, offering modern facilities across four faculties and strong industry connections. Located on the vibrant south coast of England, Portsmouth provides an ideal blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity.

Key Highlights:

• Home to over 2,800 international students from the Middle East
• Strong programs in Engineering, Business, Computer Science, and Maritime studies
• Graduate employment rate of 94% within 15 months of graduation
• Modern £150 million campus developments completed in 2025
• Dedicated support services for Middle Eastern students

University of Portsmouth Scholarships for Saudi Students 2026

International Academic Excellence Scholarship

The flagship scholarship program offers the most substantial financial support for high-achieving Saudi students.

Award Amount: £3,000 - £5,000 per year Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 85% in Saudi high school certificate (Tawjihiyya) or equivalent
• IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
• Full-time undergraduate or postgraduate study
• Demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential

Application Process:

1. Submit university application by March 31, 2026
2. Complete online scholarship application form
3. Provide academic transcripts and IELTS scores
4. Submit personal statement (500 words) highlighting achievements
5. Obtain two academic references

Vice-Chancellor's Global Development Scholarship

Specifically designed for students from developing nations, including Saudi Arabia, this scholarship supports academic and professional development.

Award Amount: £3,000 (one-time payment) Key Features:

• Available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• Focuses on students pursuing courses in sustainable development fields
• Includes mentorship program with faculty members
• Priority given to students in STEM fields and Business

Country-Specific Scholarships for Middle Eastern Students

The university offers targeted funding for students from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia.

Award Amount: £2,000 - £4,000 Special Benefits:

• Cultural orientation programs
• Arabic-speaking student support services
• Connections with local Saudi student societies
• Career guidance tailored to Middle Eastern job markets

External Scholarship Opportunities for Saudi Students

King Salman Scholarship Program

The Saudi government's premier international education funding initiative provides comprehensive support for studying abroad.

Coverage:

• Full tuition fees
• Monthly living allowance of £1,200
• Annual return flights to Saudi Arabia
• Health insurance coverage
• Academic supervision and support

Eligibility: Saudi nationals with strong academic records and commitment to returning to contribute to Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Cultural Mission Scholarships

Managed by the Saudi Cultural Bureau in London, these scholarships support various academic levels and disciplines.

Benefits:

• Partial or full tuition coverage
• Living stipend based on location
• Academic and personal support services
• Integration with Saudi student community in the UK

How to Maximize Your Scholarship Chances

Academic Preparation

Saudi students should focus on achieving excellent grades in their final year of secondary education or undergraduate studies. The University of Portsmouth typically requires:

• Undergraduate: Minimum 85% in Tawjihiyya or equivalent international qualification
• Postgraduate: First-class or upper second-class honors degree (equivalent to 3.5+ GPA)
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall, with specific subject requirements varying

Application Timeline Strategy

To maximize scholarship opportunities, Saudi students should follow this strategic timeline:

September-December 2025:

• Research programs and scholarship options
• Prepare IELTS examination
• Gather required documents and references

January-March 2026:

• Submit university applications
• Complete scholarship application forms
• Apply for external funding sources

April-June 2026:

• Await scholarship decisions
• Prepare visa applications
• Arrange accommodation and travel

Document Preparation

Saudi students must ensure all documents are properly attested and translated:

• Academic transcripts (attested by Saudi Ministry of Education)
• English translations by certified translators
• Personal statements tailored to scholarship criteria
• Reference letters from academic supervisors
• Proof of English language proficiency

Living Costs and Budget Planning for Saudi Students

Understanding the full cost of studying at University of Portsmouth helps Saudi students plan their finances effectively, even with scholarship support.

Annual Estimated Costs (2026):

• Tuition fees: £16,200 - £18,600 (depending on program)
• Accommodation: £6,000 - £8,500
• Food and groceries: £2,400 - £3,000
• Transportation: £600 - £1,000
• Personal expenses: £1,500 - £2,500
• Total: £26,700 - £33,600 per year

With major scholarships covering £3,000-£5,000 annually, Saudi students can significantly reduce their financial burden. When you're ready to explore other options, you can also browse all universities to compare scholarship opportunities across different institutions.

Application Support and Resources

University Support Services

The University of Portsmouth provides dedicated support for international students, particularly those from the Middle East:

• International Student Advice Team: Specialized guidance for visa and immigration matters
• Academic Skills Unit: English language support and study skills development
• Student Financial Support: Assistance with budget planning and emergency funding
• Career Services: Job placement support with connections to Middle Eastern employers

Saudi Student Community

The university hosts an active Saudi Student Society with over 200 members, providing:

• Cultural events and celebrations
• Academic peer support networks
• Orientation programs for new arrivals
• Connections with local mosques and halal food options
• Professional networking opportunities

Visa and Immigration Considerations

Saudi students receiving scholarships must ensure proper visa documentation:

Student Visa Requirements:

• Tier 4 (General) Student Visa application
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from University of Portsmouth
• Proof of financial support (including scholarship letters)
• Academic qualifications and English language certificates
• Tuberculosis test results

Financial Evidence:

• Bank statements showing £1,334 per month for living costs (outside London)
• First year tuition fees minus any scholarship amounts
• Scholarship award letters as supporting documentation

Conclusion

University of Portsmouth offers excellent scholarship opportunities for Saudi students in 2026, with awards ranging from £2,000 to £5,000 annually through various programs. Combined with external funding from Saudi government initiatives, students can significantly reduce their study costs while accessing quality UK education. Start your application process early and ensure all documentation meets the specific requirements for both university and scholarship applications.

Key Statistics

📊 University of Portsmouth hosts over 2,800 international students from the Middle East region in 2026

💰 Scholarships for Saudi students range from £2,000 to £5,000 annually, with external funding potentially covering full costs

🎓 94% of University of Portsmouth graduates find employment within 15 months of completing their studies

📈 Over 200 Saudi students are currently enrolled at University of Portsmouth, forming one of the largest Middle Eastern communities

🏛️ The university invested £150 million in campus developments completed in 2025, enhancing student facilities and learning environments

⭐ University of Portsmouth ranks 501-600 globally in QS World University Rankings 2026, maintaining strong international reputation

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

Saudi students must first apply for admission to the university by March 31, 2026, then complete separate scholarship application forms. You'll need academic transcripts showing minimum 85% grades, IELTS 6.5 scores, personal statement, and two academic references. Submit applications online through the university's scholarship portal, ensuring all documents are properly attested by Saudi authorities and translated into English by certified translators.

What is the minimum academic requirement for University of Portsmouth scholarships?

The minimum academic requirement varies by scholarship program, but most require at least 85% in your Saudi high school certificate (Tawjihiyya) for undergraduate programs or first-class/upper second-class honors degree for postgraduate study. English proficiency requires IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, though some competitive programs may require higher scores.

How much can Saudi students save with University of Portsmouth scholarships?

Saudi students can save between £2,000-£5,000 annually through university scholarships, with the International Academic Excellence Scholarship offering the highest amount at £5,000 per year. When combined with external funding like the King Salman Scholarship Program, students can potentially receive full financial coverage including tuition fees (£16,200-£18,600), living expenses, and additional support services.

Can I combine multiple scholarships as a Saudi student at University of Portsmouth?

Generally, you cannot combine multiple university scholarships, but you can combine university awards with external funding sources like the Saudi Cultural Mission or King Salman Scholarship Program. The university's scholarship terms specify that internal awards are not cumulative, but external government funding can supplement university scholarships. Always check specific terms and conditions for each scholarship program before applying.

What support services does University of Portsmouth offer for Saudi students?

University of Portsmouth provides comprehensive support including an active Saudi Student Society with 200+ members, dedicated International Student Advice Team, Arabic-speaking support services, and cultural orientation programs. The university also offers academic skills support, career guidance tailored to Middle Eastern job markets, connections with local mosques and halal food options, plus assistance with visa and immigration matters.

When should Saudi students apply for University of Portsmouth scholarships in 2026?

Saudi students should begin applications between January-March 2026, with most scholarship deadlines falling on March 31, 2026. However, preparation should start in September 2025 including IELTS examination, document collection, and research. External funding through Saudi government programs often has earlier deadlines, with the King Salman Scholarship Program typically closing in January. Early application is crucial as scholarships are competitive and awarded on merit-based selection.

Key Takeaways

✅ University of Portsmouth offers multiple scholarship opportunities for Saudi students worth £2,000-£5,000 annually, with the International Academic Excellence Scholarship providing the highest funding

✅ Saudi students can access both university scholarships and external funding through King Salman Scholarship Program and Saudi Cultural Mission for comprehensive financial support

✅ Minimum requirements include 85% academic grades, IELTS 6.5, and applications must be submitted by March 31, 2026, with proper document attestation from Saudi authorities

✅ Total annual costs at University of Portsmouth range from £26,700-£33,600, making scholarships essential for reducing financial burden on Saudi families

✅ The university provides extensive support services including a 200+ member Saudi Student Society, Arabic-speaking advisors, and cultural integration programs

✅ Strategic application timing starting in September 2025 maximizes scholarship chances, with early preparation for IELTS, document collection, and multiple funding applications