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. 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. (Academic Calendar Link)
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 approximately $200. For the internship portion, the stipend increases to about $900. 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’s exchange program office 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 KFPM medical center.
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 the KFUPM exchange program office or international student office at oic@kfupm.edu.sa . They 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 students. The program office will provide details on orientation schedules and activities.
The student exchange program is a study abroad opportunity that allows students to spend a semester or academic year at a partner or other host university in a different country. 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.
The student may request to apply to a high-ranking university that we do not have an agreement with, and if accepted, you can start applying at that university.
A student cannot withdraw after sending their application to the host university. KFUPM administration will look at the reasons for withdrawal from the program, and if the reasons are genuine, you are allowed to withdraw.
You can submit a petition to state your case, and the supervisory committee will either approve or deny your petition.
KFUPM pays for the student’s health insurance, tuition fees, and all registration fees for both fully and partially sponsored students. However, fully sponsored students receive a monthly stipend and a round-trip economy-class plane ticket to the host city, and KFUPM pays for any visa-related expenditure.
You cannot extend your stay at the host university with the Student Exchange Program. However, you may extend your visit by participating in other international programs at KFUPM such as the International Summer Research Program.
ETS TOEFL-iBT certificate with a minimum score of 70 or IELTS with a minimum overall band score of 6.0 is required to be accepted into the exchange program. However, some host universities may require higher marks in English proficiency exams.
You can register for any course at the host university. However, there are certain conditions that should be met: 1- You should aim to register for 15 credit hours at the host university. 2- At least 12 of these credit hours should be equivalent to your courses at KFUPM. Note that enrolling in fewer than 12 credit hours may violate immigration and visit regulations in many of the host universities.