skip to main content

Student Onboarding

We’re excited to have you join our vibrant community of scholars, researchers, and innovators. This page is your central guide for preparing to arrive on campus and completing the key steps of your onboarding journey.

The University provides onboarding services for students admitted to on-campus degree programs, visting student programs, and interns. Applicants who are admitted to off-campus programs are not offered an onboarding process.

Onboarding typically begins in May for Fall-entry students and November for Spring-entry students. Interns and visiting students are onboarded throughout the year. Degree students are expected to arrive on campus before the start of the semester. If you arrive late, your admission offer may be withdrawn or your studies and benefits may be affected.

For inquires please contact GradOpsOnboarding@kaust.edu.sa

Onboarding Timeline: What to Expect

StepTaskEstimated Time
1Submit Onboarding Form1 week
2Medical Clearance10+ days
3Degree AttestationUp to 60 days
4Visa Process2–8 weeks
5Housing AssignmentBefore arrival
6Travel CoordinationAfter visa is issued
7Arrival at KAUST During orientation period

Download Full Timeline Infographic (PDF)

Onboarding Process and Login

For activating DUO, kindly connect with the IT helpdesk on Chatbot https://vita.kaust.edu.sa

Please review the “Created User Profile” or “Existing account status changed to active Regular Student” email sent from KAUST (Connect SAP IDM Team) on how to access your KAUST account if you have not already done so.

If you are a local student, you might complete the process within 4 weeks. However, if you have school-aged children, additional time is required for the school admissions process.

For international students, the average onboarding process takes around 8-12 weeks.

Whether a local or international student, once all onboarding requirements are met, your travel will be arranged for a date within a week of the orientation/semester start. 

As an international student, you will require a student visa to enter Saudi Arabia. Once you fill out the onboarding form, you will receive detailed instructions via email informing you about the steps required to obtain your visa. KAUST has connections with visa agencies in your home country to help you with the visa process.

Yes, it is a requirement for local and international students. For international students, the embassy would require medical tests to issue your student visa. Please upload your Visa Medical Report as soon as you have it using the link provided by your onboarding advisor. Our KAUST Health Department (KH) will review it and approve your medical clearance. Since it is also a requirement by KAUST Health Department (KH) to ensure the availability of medical services and medications for all students, they might reach out to you in case additional tests are requested by KH.

Visa, Immigration & Iqama

Yes, non-Saudi Arabian students studying at KAUST are required to have a university's sponsored iqama (Residence Permit). If you are already living in Saudi Arabia under another iqama, you will need to transfer your sponsorship to KAUST. In case your current employer/ sponsor does not support the iqama transfer process you will have to exit the Kingdom first and start the visa process from your home country. In that case, please reach out to our Onboarding advisor for further information and
support.

  1. Contact your Visa Agent:
    Please contact the local visa agent in the country you will be applying from for your “Student visa” (depending on the country, it can also be named “Educational Government visa”) and ask for the visa requirements list. The recommended visa agency list is found in the link.
  2. Check Your Passport Validity:
    Make sure you have a passport valid for at least twelve (12) months with at least two (2) clear visa pages adjacent to each other. Otherwise please renew your passport before filling out the onboarding form as your visa invitation letter will be connected to the passport information provided in the onboarding form.
  3. Start the Attestation of Your Important Documents:
    The degree attestation process is complex in many countries and, under normal circumstances, can take up to 60 days to finalize. Discuss this process with your visa agent and start it as soon as possible. If your degree/diploma has not yet been issued, please inform the Onboarding team so that we can proceed accordingly. You may need to have attested other documents, including birth and marriage certificates.
    • Obtain the original and notarized and/or authenticated copies of your degree transcripts/diplomas.
    • Once you have your documents, start the Degree attestation process (per instructions from your agent).
    • If required by your agent, please start the birth certificate and (if applicable) marriage certificate attestation process.
  4. Medical Appointments for your Medical Report:
    Please check with your visa agency first how long your medical report will be valid. This might differ from country to country but generally it should be valid for 90 days. Your visa agent should be able to inform you about what physicians you will need to meet with.

In addition to the medical form (in your onboarding form), please send us or upload the scanned copy of the GAMCA (Gulf Approved Medical Centers Association) Medical Report or Visa Medical Report. This report will include the results of blood tests for infectious diseases (HIV, Hep B...), Urine tests, Eye checkups, VDRL, and Chest X-Ray.

The report is mandatory to submit along with your other documents for the visa process. If the Medical Report is not in English, an English translation must also be provided.

NOTE: You must ensure the doctor includes tests for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, VDRL, and Tuberculosis – a positive test for one (or more) of these conditions will exclude you (or your dependent) from holding an Iqama (residency permit) and therefore entering the Kingdom.

Please contact GradOpsOnboarding@ KAUST.EDU.SA, they would coordinate with KAUST Embassies Relations team to resolve any agency/visa related issues.

Once you receive the visa invitation letter, please contact the approved visa agency in your home country to obtain the latest information and requirements. Typically, you will need the following additional documents:
  • KAUST admission letter: This will be sent automatically once you have completed the onboarding form.
  • Visa medical checkup and resulting report.
  • Attested educational degrees: These should be attested by the Saudi Cultural Mission.
  • A valid passport.

You are responsible for obtaining your student visa by contacting your visa agency, providing the visa requirements, and submitting to the Saudi Embassy.

Whether your dependents are arriving with you to KAUST or coming at a later stage, the Onboarding Advisor would support you in getting the visa invitation letter for your dependents, assigning you to a family unit, and their travel arrangements.

Once you arrive at KAUST, you will need to do your Iqama medical test, which will be arranged during the orientation week on campus. If you arrive after Orientation Week, you will receive an email from your Onboarding Advisor with the date and time to attend the Iqama medical session at KAUST Health. Once your medical is done, you will be able to submit your iqama request through the GA portal. The issuance of the Iqama from Government Affairs will take approximately 7–10 days after arrival, and you will receive an email once your iqama is ready for pick up at the Government Affairs Service Center (GASC) on the spine.


You will receive your Iqama from the Government Affairs Service Center (GASC) approximately 7–10 days after arrival.

Travel & Relocation

Students are advised to consider purchasing travel insurance to cover themselves and their dependents (if applicable) from their point of departure until their arrival in Saudi Arabia. This cost can be claimed for reimbursement with the visa expenses upon arrival. Excess or additional amounts may be considered with prior approval.

The student is responsible for this cost.

The KAUST relocation team will arrange onboarding travel through their approved travel agency, Kanoo.

No. KAUST will book your flight via the most direct route and arrange your transport from Jeddah airport to the KAUST campus.

From the nearest/most convenient international airport.

Yes. A Government Affairs (GA) representative will meet you, and a taxi will be provided to KAUST campus.

 

Inform your onboarding and relocation advisors via email.

A taxi will be arranged to transport you directly to campus.

Report it immediately to the airline and get a claim reference number. Your relocation advisor can assist with tracking or filing a compensation claim.

Call the 24/7 emergency hotline: +966 544701348.

KAUST covers up to 40 kg of baggage per student. Additional baggage must be covered by the student.

No. Students must arrive on the date assigned by KAUST, which is at the start of the semester.

If you change your return destination, you must cover any fare differences.

Housing & Accommodation

Students are required to live on campus and will be allocated shared accommodation. For married students, family-style housing will be assigned.

The university has an established criteria for on-campus housing eligibility. Students may change their housing entitlement, subject to changes in accommodation criteria. Sharing may only be entered with other sharers of the same gender, and apartment blocks are gender-specific.

No. Housing is assigned based on availability, and units are allocated and prepared prior to the new resident's arrival. Single students are assigned shared accommodations. Preferences shared in advance may be accommodated depending upon availability. Married students are assigned family-type accommodation if they come with their legal family (spouse and kids) to campus.

To apply for family housing, you will have to start the dependent relocation process. First request a Family Residency Visa through the GA website, which provides the steps and required documents. Once you have gathered the documents, we will review and update our records. After receiving the visa slip, contact GradOpsOnboarding@kaust.edu.sa to begin the family housing request process.

Only legal dependents (spouse and children) can live with you on campus. The University recognizes the following persons as eligible dependents for purposes of on-campus housing, provided that such persons reside on the University campus for no less than a total of 180 days per calendar year:

  1. One spouse
  2. Eligible dependent children as defined below: Unmarried children of student, including step and legally adopted, up to and including age 19. In cases where the University student has physical custody of a child for more than fifty percent (50%) of the time (or by court order has been granted physical custody for more than fifty percent (50%) of the time), such a child shall be considered an eligible dependent.

There are no charges associated with shared accommodation. However, married students will be charged depending on eligibility and the type of housing they have been assigned and according to the charges prescribed in the terms and conditions.

You can move into your assigned accommodation once the unit is ready. Unit preparation and readiness are coordinated based on the confirmed arrival date provided by the Graduate Operations Team. This ensures that your unit is fully prepared before your scheduled move-in.

Yes, utilities are included in your housing unit. Internet ports are available for wired network connectivity, and residents may purchase their own router for wireless access if needed. The KAUST residential network service offers the residents wired network connectivity and access to both the Internet and internal University services. As a new resident, a premium Wi-Fi service (KAUST Wi-Fi+) is included in the residential unit. Some residents prefer to come to KAUST with their own routers purchased in their home countries.

All units are fully furnished according to KAUST's standard setup for student accommodation. This includes basic furniture such as a bed, wardrobe, and living room. Additionally, the units are equipped with essential appliances to ensure a comfortable living environment. All residences have domestic appliances including washer and dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher, and electric stove and oven. There are internationally renowned retail outlets that offer the delivery of furniture items to meet any additional resident requirements and preferences over and above standard provision.

During the onboarding process, you will receive a request for your housemate preference, and efforts will be made to accommodate your request, if possible, based on availability. If you have a preferred roommate, please email their name and KAUST ID to HousingResident.Relations@KAUST.EDU.SA.

The voltage of electricity distributed in residential accommodation is 220 volts. Sockets available in units include 3-pin sockets, which accept plug type G. This is the plug that has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern.

You only need to bring your personal belongings, and you can buy other items upon arrival either on campus or in Jeddah. Upon arrival to campus, the housing department will also provide a soft pack of basic items such as bedding, towels, and some kitchenware to help you settle in during the initial days.

Financial Support

It is necessary to have a residency document (Iqama) as well as a Saudi mobile phone number to be able to open a Saudi bank account. Once you receive your Iqama, you can open a bank account at one of the banks on campus. Once you have a Saudi bank account, please update your bank information through the student portal to receive your stipend. Local students who already have a Saudi bank account do NOT need to open a new bank account and only need to update their bank details on the student portal.

Your first stipend would be processed by the 10th of the next month after arrival and it would be prorated based on your arrival date. The usual payment schedule would be every 25th of the month. Please note that the stipend payment can only be processed once you have updated your bank account details on your student portal.

There would be a SAR 1000 deduction for the first 4 months for a total of SAR 4000 security deposit, which would be returned upon completing your exit clearance after graduation. It would be used to cover any property damage to the student apartment/furniture/any unpaid bills e.g. Library charges, traffic violations, etc.

KAUST offers travel assistance to MS and PhD students to help with travel expenses. MS students receive this assistance once during their program, while PhD students are eligible for it annually. The allowance is based on KAUST-approved rates for travel from Jeddah to the capital city of the student's home country. This assistance is a partial contribution toward travel costs and is not intended to cover all expenses for returning to the home country. Full details will be sent via email in March to all eligible students. Students must stay for at least 180 days before being eligible for a travel allowance.

Yes, it would follow the same timelines

Degree ClassCredits per SemesterStipend (USD)Stipend (SAR)
MS12$1,667SAR 6,250
PhD (<30 credits)12$2,083SAR 7,812
PhD (Above 30 credits)12$2,500SAR 9,375

Yes, KAUST will cover the health insurance for all local students as well as for all international students under KAUST sponsorship, from the day of your arrival at KAUST. You will receive an email with an insurance certificate for you and your dependents (if applicable) within the first week of arrival. You can start using the medical services at KAUST Health immediately. International students are required to provide a copy of their Iqama and Saudi mobile number once they are active. You can access your membership information by creating a user and logging into the Bupa website.

KAUST offers visa cost assistance to MS and PhD students, which would be paid with the first stipend, to assist with incurred visa costs and associated expenses during the onboarding phase.

VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted so you can use your credit card; however, please be aware that there might be additional fees associated with this option. To avoid any inconvenience, we highly recommend having some cash on hand as an alternative payment method.

No, your stipend will be wired only through to your Saudi bank account.

https://portal.kaust.edu.sa/

To access the KAUST portal, students need a user ID & Password.

Academic Questions

During orientation week (week prior to the start of the semester), a meeting with your designated advisor to discuss your custom study plan will be scheduled.

Once on campus, you will meet your Graduate Program Student Advisor who will help you navigate your student portal and register for your courses. A detailed guide on how to register for courses can be found on the registrar website: https://registrar.kaust.edu.sa/.

During orientation week (week prior to the start of the semester), you will be introduced to different departments in KAUST: Registrar, Admissions, Student Affairs, and Student Operations, etc. You will attend an introductory lecture about your divisions, and then another lecture about the specific degree program you are enrolled in. You will also be meeting your Graduate Program Coordinator (GPC). They will guide you through the academic procedures during your studies at KAUST. A meeting with your designated advisor to discuss your custom study plan will also be scheduled.

You can request official transcripts, enrollment verifications, or other documents through the student services portal.

Dependent and Family-Related Questions

At KAUST, several support services are typically available to assist in relocating your spouse and children. These include:

  1. Visa Processing: Assistance with visa applications and residency permits (Iqama) for family members.
  2. Housing Assistance: Support in securing family accommodation on campus, including eligibility for family units.
  3. Flight Arrangements: KAUST arranges travel for your spouse and children, ensuring that their flights align with your relocation schedule.
  4. Health Insurance: KAUST provides health coverage for family members as part of your employment benefits.

To bring your dependents into Saudi Arabia, you will need the following documentation:

  1. Family Residency Visa: Apply through the Government Affairs (GA) website.
  2. Valid Passports: For each dependent.
  3. Certified Marriage Certificate: If bringing a spouse.
  4. Certified Birth Certificates: For children.
  5. Medical Reports: Health checkups or vaccination records (if required).
  6. Visa Slip: After completing the visa process, you will receive the visa slip for your dependents.

No.

They can visit at a later stage. You will need your residency document (Iqama), then you can apply for a visit visa for your parents through your student portal.

Yes, once you are on campus and have a residency card (Iqama), you are eligible to invite personal visitors to campus. Details are available in your student portal/student handbook.

Yes, KAUST offers an on-campus school for children, The KAUST School (TKS), which provides education from age 4 (K2) through Grade 12. The school enrollment is not automatic and is subject to availability of places and meeting the school admission criteria. It is the parents' responsibility to apply to the school via the enrollment link: https://kaust.openapply.com/. Other schooling options would be World Academy at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) https://twa.edu.sa/admissionsprocedure/ or the available schools in Thuwal. If you decide to send your children to a school off-campus, you are not entitled to claim any funding or other support for this.

The KAUST School (TKS) is a valuable benefit that KAUST provides to its eligible postgraduate students, free of charge. However, a nominal fee is charged by TKS for IT/Materials for enrolled pupils.

Yes, KAUST also offers a daycare and preschool facility for kids under 4 years; however, this service is provided by a third party and therefore not free of charge. For further details, please check the website of Building Blocks: https://bbiskaust.org/. Students planning to enroll their kids in daycare will need to arrange this directly with the daycare service provider.

Your family members have access to comprehensive healthcare services through the following options:

  • Hospital Care: For more specialized or advanced medical treatments, referrals can be made to external hospitals in the region that KAUST partners with.
  • Pharmacy Services: The KAUST Health Clinic has an on-site pharmacy where medications can be prescribed and filled.
  • Health Insurance: KAUST provides health insurance coverage for family members, which includes access to medical care, specialist consultations, and emergency services in the Kingdom.

Miscellaneous Questions

When you arrive at KAUST, you should go directly to the Housing office. From there you will receive details of your housing contract and will be taken to your accommodation. Once you have arrived at KAUST, we have various teams in place to welcome and assist you, and to answer your questions. You will also receive an arrival checklist to help you navigate your first days. To connect to campus WIFI, you should use icampus network with your regular user ID and password. If you need a map of the campus, you can access the KAUST maps.

Yes, having a local phone number is important for staying connected and accessing multiple services like government services, bank, medical insurance. After you receive your Iqama (residency) document, you can buy a phone SIM card from the Mobile shop on campus. Please do not purchase a Saudi mobile SIM card at the airport as you will require a new Saudi mobile phone number connected to your Iqama to open a local bank account.

You may check this link for a list of prohibited items to bring to Saudi Arabia.

Yes, there are three recreation centers with sports clubs, swimming pools, counseling services, KH medical center, and other resources on campus and in Jeddah.

Yes, the university's career services office guides internships, job placement, resume building, and networking opportunities. Some departments may also offer specific career development workshops.

Transportation options include campus shuttles, SHIFT rental cars, and taxis. Check the campus transportation office for maps and schedules.

You can typically get your student ID card during orientation. Your student ID provides access to:

  • Campus facilities like libraries, labs, and gyms.
  • Printing services and computer labs.

It's common to experience culture shock when studying in a new country. To adjust:

  • Be open to learning about new customs, behaviors, and communication styles.
  • Attend orientation programs offered by student services.
  • Join student groups and engage in social activities.
  • Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance from locals and fellow students.

Due to the visa status of international students and their spouses, student spouses will not be allowed to work at KAUST unless they are Saudi Nationals. However, there are multiple volunteering opportunities at KAUST available for spouses. Further information can be found here: https://communitylife.kaust.edu.sa/activities/volunteering-opportunities-(new).

Your First Week at KAUST

Your arrival marks the beginning of a guided orientation experience to help you settle in, get connected, and start strong.

Day 1 – Arrival & Move-In
  • You’ll be met at the airport by a KAUST representative.
  • Visit the Housing Office, collect your keys, and settle into your unit.
  • Use the arrival checklist to guide your first steps.
Day 2 – Registration & Setup
  • You will receive an email with instructions to attend the Iqama medical test. After completing the test, please submit your Iqama request through the portal.
  • Once the Iqama is issued, proceed to purchase a SIM card.
  • Begin the bank account setup process (post-Iqama).
Day 3–5 – Academic Orientation
  • Meet your Graduate Program Advisor and register for courses.
  • Explore the student portal, learning systems, and research tools.
  • Attend academic briefings by your division.
Download the KAUST Central App to access
  • Campus maps
  • Orientation schedules
  • Transportation and shuttle info
  • Dining hours and service requests

Available on iOS and Android.

Explore Campus Life
  • Attend info sessions on wellness, housing, and student services
  • Tour gyms, libraries, and dining spots
  • Meet fellow students and join campus groups

Pro Tip: Take this time to download key apps, find your way around, and ask all the questions you need to feel at home.

Need Help?

We’re here to make sure your onboarding is smooth and supported every step of the way.

Visit us Virtually

Explore our campus with our 360 degree virtual tour of the University.

Take a Virtual Tour