The KAUST Global Fellowship 2026 is a top-tier, fully funded postdoctoral program at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia. Designed to foster future scientific leaders, this three-year program provides in-depth research opportunities, robust funding, and family-friendly benefits in a multicultural environment particularly welcoming to Pakistani scholars.
Contents
Fellowship Overview & BenefitsEligibility for Pakistani ApplicantsRequired Application DocumentsStep-by-Step Application Process1. Secure a Faculty Host2. English Proficiency3. Organize Documents4. Register and Apply Online5. Upload Documents6. Review and SubmitAfter SubmissionSpecial Notes for Pakistani ApplicantsQuick Checklist
Fellowship Overview & Benefits
- Duration: 3 years (non-renewable)
- Stipend: $75,000/year (tax-free)
- Research Funding: Up to $40,000/year (allocated for conferences, core labs, and consumables)
- Other Benefits: Free housing, comprehensive health insurance (for family too), relocation allowance, annual travel support, and schooling for up to two children
- Location: KAUST, Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
- Number of Awards: Up to 10 globally per year
- Application window: July 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026
Eligibility for Pakistani Applicants
- PhD Award Date: Must be awarded on or after January 1, 2022 (maximum 4 years before deadline)
- PhD Completion: Complete before fellowship start date; eligible if thesis is pending at application, but degree must be conferred before joining
- Publications: Two first-author or joint first-author peer-reviewed journal articles (conference abstracts and non-English journals not accepted)
- Faculty Host: Confirm the support of a KAUST faculty member willing to act as your host; obtain an official support letter
- English Proficiency:
- IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5
- TOEFL iBT: At least 79 overall, minimum 17 in each component
- Exemption: If all degrees were taught in English in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Ireland; check KAUST guidelines for additional exemptions
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities (Pakistanis actively encouraged)
- Residency: Full-time, on-campus research presence at KAUST required
- KAUST Alumni: Not eligible for this fellowship
- Other: Must secure a Saudi residency permit (iqama) upon offer
Required Application Documents
- CV/Resume: Maximum 4 pages
- Research Proposal: Use the latest KAUST template, presenting a clear and feasible 3-year plan
- Publications: Up to two first-author peer-reviewed journal articles (mandatory and optional)
- KAUST Host Support Letter: Official template, signed by your intended faculty mentor
- PhD Degree Certificate: Or official proof, dated on/after January 2022
- Academic Transcripts: Graduate and doctoral level, certified English translations if necessary
- English Proficiency Certificate: IELTS/TOEFL results (dated within past 2 years unless exempt)
- Passport Copy: Valid at the time of application
- Letters of Recommendation: Two referees, who upload directly via the portal (cannot be your KAUST host)
- (Optional) Additional Awards/Certificates
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Secure a Faculty Host
- Research KAUST faculty, contact those with aligned research interests, and obtain a support letter.
2. English Proficiency
- Arrange and sit for IELTS/TOEFL if not exempt. Plan well ahead to secure test dates.
3. Organize Documents
- Collect all required documents. Ensure translations (if needed) are certified.
4. Register and Apply Online
- Create an account on the KAUST PlutoEdu portal.
- Fill all sections of the online form accurately.
5. Upload Documents
- Each file must be PDF, English, and under allowable size (max 10MB per file).
- Cite two referees (excluding your host)—they will be prompted to upload recommendation letters directly.
6. Review and Submit
- Double-check for accuracy and completeness. Submit before January 15, 2026; there is no application fee.
After Submission
- Shortlisted candidates will receive interview invitations (usually virtual).
- If selected, you will receive a formal offer letter detailing visa, onboarding, and relocation instructions for yourself and dependents.
Special Notes for Pakistani Applicants
- Document Translations: All certificates, transcripts, and family documents (for dependents) must be in English.
- English Tests: Register early through British Council or AEO Pakistan.
- Faculty Outreach: Write concise, well-researched emails when approaching potential mentors.
- Cultural Fit: KAUST offers halal food, Islamic facilities, and a strong Muslim and South Asian community.
- Network: Consider connecting with KAUST Pakistani alumni for tips and insights.
- Visa Guidance: KAUST assists with Saudi iqama and dependents’ documentation. Prepare birth/marriage certificates ahead.
Quick Checklist
| Requirement | Mandatory? |
|---|---|
| PhD after January 2022 | Yes |
| Two first-author peer-reviewed papers | Yes |
| KAUST host and signed support letter | Yes |
| CV (≤4 pages) | Yes |
| Three-year research proposal (template) | Yes |
| IELTS/TOEFL (unless exempt) | Yes |
| Academic transcripts (graduate/PhD) | Yes |
| Two referee letters (not host, via portal) | Yes |
| Passport copy | Yes |
| Awards/additional documents | Optional |
| Application via PlutoEdu platform | Yes |
| Application deadline | Jan 15, 2026 |
Always consult the KAUST Global Fellowship website to access the latest templates, forms, and official updates. Begin the process well before the deadline to leave time for securing reference letters, official documents, and faculty support. Good luck—prepare thoroughly and submit your strongest application!
