The program consists of two parts: studying for an academic term at KFUPM and completing an internship if the student participates in the spring term, upon eligibility. Both aspects are fully covered, including housing in the university dorms.
The study term typically aligns with the academic calendar, which will be a semester. The fall term will be in the middle of August, and the spring term will be in the middle of January. The academic calendar can be found here.
The internship will be aligned with your field of study and career interests. KFUPM partners with various industry companies such as Aramco to provide meaningful internship experiences.
Accommodation will be provided in the university’s dormitories. These are generally well-equipped and designed for student comfort.
Bring personal toiletries, clothing, and any study materials. Bedding and basic furnishings are usually provided.
The program covers tuition, housing, and the internship. You might need to budget for personal expenses, travel, and incidental costs.
During the study term, you will receive a stipend of 990 SR. For the internship portion, the stipend will be 3000 SR. This helps cover living expenses during both phases of the program.
The internship is organized by KFUPM in collaboration with industry partners. Details about your specific internship placement and responsibilities will be provided closer to the start of your program.
You will need a student visa for the study and the internship. KFUPM Global Engagement will assist you with obtaining the necessary visas.
Visa processing times can vary. It’s advisable to start the application process two months before the beginning of the classes. KFUPM will provide support to help you navigate this process.
KFUPM will offer medical primary care provided by KFUPM medical center. In urgent or emergency cases, students will be transferred to major government hospitals.
You will have access to KFUPM medical center and local healthcare providers. Familiarize yourself with these services upon arrival.
Saudi Arabia has specific cultural norms and practices. It’s important to dress modestly and respect local traditions. KFUPM may offer orientation sessions to help you adapt to the cultural environment.
For specific queries, contact us at KFUPM Global Engagement. We will provide detailed and updated information about all aspects of the program.
Yes, there is usually an orientation program to help you get settled, understand university resources, and meet other exchange fellows. The program office will provide details on orientation schedules and activities.
Formerly known as the Study Abroad Program, the O-GEF program is an opportunity that allows students to spend a semester at an exceptional abroad university. It provides students with the chance to immerse themselves in a different culture, gain new perspectives, and earn credits toward their degree program while studying at a foreign university.
To comply with the Global Engagement's agreements with its partnerships with other universities, you may not request to change your university to a host university that has been listed as a destination for the O-GEF program.
However, students may apply to a well-recognized international university that is not listed as an O-GEF program destination. In the event that you receive an admission offer from such a university, you are required to obtain prior approval from the Global Engagement Department before proceeding with any plans to study abroad.
All applicants accepted into the O-GEF program are required to sign a legal form. This form outlines your responsibilities as a participant, the expected outcomes of the program, and includes a penalty clause that will apply in cases of non-compliance.
You may withdraw your application without providing a justification, as long as you do so before signing the legal form. However, once the legal form has been signed, any withdrawal must be supported by a formal written justification submitted to the KFUPM Global Engagement Department, in accordance with the penalty clause.
No petition shall be accepted for the purpose of lifting or removing the eligibility criteria.
There are three types of funding options for the O-GEF program:
The following must be considered:
A valid TOEFL-iBT certificate with a minimum score of 79 or IELTS with a minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required to be accepted into the O-GEF program.
Please note that some host universities may require higher marks in English proficiency exams.
You can register for any course at the host university. However, the following conditions must be considered:
The Young Scholar Fellowship is an international summer research program designed for undergraduate students to conduct research under the supervision of faculty at top global universities. The program promotes international collaboration and research excellence.
No, but having research interest and motivation is crucial
The research placements typically take place during the summer break (June to August), lasting 8 weeks.
Exact dates may vary depending on the host institution.
Currently, the program is primarily for KFUPM students.
Students can either:
A formal application form must be submitted through KFUPM Global Engagement once an opportunity is confirmed.
A professional introduction, your interest in their work, and a request for collaboration.
No, this program cannot replace the 399 summer internship.
KFUPM provides the following to the eligible students:
No. This is a non-credit-bearing research opportunity. However, it will be formally recorded on your academic transcript and may enhance your resume and graduate school applications.
While the stipend is intended to help cover basic living costs, students are responsible of their accommodation arrangements.
Projects vary by host institution and faculty supervisor, but they are typically aligned with your field of study.
Yes. Participants will receive:
Absolutely. Many students use this experience to: