If you’re searching for a Saudia Scholarship Program in 2026, you might worry that you’ve already missed the boat. Many programs set their deadlines between January and March, and it’s true — several have closed.
But here’s the good news: two of the most prestigious, fully funded opportunities are still accepting applications, and their final deadline is just 20 days away on May 21, 2026.
This post gives you the up-to-date picture as of May 1, 2026. You’ll learn exactly which scholarships you can still apply for, how to submit a strong application in a short time, and what to do if you’re planning for the next intake.
A Critical Update for May 2026 Applicants
Before we jump into the available programs, let’s clarify the landscape. As of May 1, 2026:
- KFUPM Scholarship (closed Jan 10, 2026)
- KAUST Fellowship Round 2 (closed Jan 17, 2026)
- IsDB Scholarship (closed Jan 31, 2026)
- King Salman Research Scholarship (closed Mar 31, 2026)
If any of these were your target, don’t despair. You can use this time to prepare for the next cycle. But first, let’s focus on the active opportunities where you can still win a seat.
Fully Funded Scholarships With Active Deadlines Right Now
Two major Saudi scholarship programs share the same upcoming deadline: May 21, 2026. Both are fully funded, cover all major expenses, and are open to international students.
1. Saudi Government Scholarship (Study in Saudi) – Deadline: May 21, 2026
This is the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Education, offering places at over 27 public universities across the Kingdom.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly living stipend, free university housing, comprehensive healthcare, and an annual round-trip flight ticket.
- Eligibility: Non-Saudi nationals. Age limits: 17–25 for bachelor’s, under 30 for master’s, under 35 for PhD.
- Where to apply: Official Study in Saudi Portal
Why apply now? You have 20 days to prepare and submit your documents. Ensure your educational certificates are translated and certified before uploading.
2. Islamic University of Madinah Scholarship – Deadline: May 21, 2026
A deeply respected scholarship for international Muslim students, located in the holy city of Madinah.
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, free furnished accommodation, quality healthcare, and free yearly transportation to the Prophet’s Mosque.
- Eligibility: Male Muslim students only. Undergraduate applicants must be 17–25 years old.
- Where to apply: IUM Admissions Portal
Key Reminder: Both programs require you to submit all documents, including certified Arabic translations, by the May 21 deadline. No late applications are accepted.
What to Do If You Missed the Earlier Deadlines
If you missed the KFUPM, KAUST, or IsDB deadlines, use this time wisely:
- Plan for Fall 2027: KAUST and KFUPM typically open their next round around September–October 2026.
- Get Your Paperwork Ready: Use our Required Documents Checklist to start gathering your degrees and transcripts.
- Start Translation Early: Avoid the last-minute rush. You can now order Arabic document translation online and get your certified document translation done from home so you're ready the moment portals open. Learn more about certified Arabic translation in Pakistan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finalize Your Application in 2 Weeks
Time is tight, but with focus you can submit a strong application by May 21.
- Choose your scholarship (today, May 1): Decide between the Saudi Government Scholarship and Islamic University of Madinah, or apply to both.
- Check exact requirements (May 1–2): Use our Saudi Scholarship Guide to see specific requirements.
- Language test (if needed): If you don’t have a valid score, the Duolingo English Test (105+) is fast and often accepted.
- Gather documents (May 1–10): Scan your passport, certificates, and transcripts.
- Write your SOP (May 3–10): Draft your Statement of Purpose.
- Secure Letters of Recommendation (May 1–10): Contact your professors immediately.
- Submit (by May 20 to be safe): Upload everything.
Essential Documents Checklist
Prepare these before May 21:
- Valid passport (2+ years validity)
- Educational certificates/degrees (attested)
- Certified Arabic or English translations
- Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- 2-3 Letters of Recommendation
- Medical fitness report
- Police clearance certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable for family visas)
- Birth certificate (for age proof)
Frequently Asked Questions (May 2026 Edition)
Q: Are there any other Saudi scholarships still open after May 21, 2026?
A: May 21 is the final major deadline for the 2026 cycle. Most other government-funded programs have already closed.
Q: Can I apply without certified translations?
A: No. Every Saudi university requires documents to be in Arabic or English. Submitting Urdu documents without professional translation leads to immediate rejection.
Q: I don’t have an English test score yet. What can I do?
A: Register for the Duolingo English Test immediately. You can get results in 48 hours.
Conclusion: Your Window Is Still Open
May 2026 is not too late to secure a life-changing scholarship. With the Saudi Government Scholarship and the Islamic University of Madinah both accepting applications until May 21, you have a clear path if you act now.
Ready to secure your scholarship?
Don’t let a language barrier or missing paperwork stand in your way. For the latest deadlines, see our guides on Spring 2027 KSU/KAU Deadlines and General Saudi Scholarship Deadlines 2026.
Your scholarship dream deserves perfection from the very first page.
Related Scholarship Guides:
- How to Apply for Saudi Scholarships: Complete Pakistani Student Guide
- Detailed Required Documents Checklist for 2026
- Top 5 Best Universities for Saudi Scholarships 2026
- Everything You Need to Know About Saudi Scholarship Document Translation
- Professional Arabic Translation Services in Pakistan: A Full Comparison
- Step-by-Step HEC and MOFA Attestation Guide
Need Expert Help with Your Documents?
Our Saudi scholarship consultants are ready to assist you with certified translations and attestation requirements. Get a response in minutes.
Written by Lisan.pk Editorial Team
Expert consultant at Lisan.pk specializing in international document legalization and translation services.
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