The Ph.D. program is designed to prepare students for research careers in academia and industry. At KAUST exceptional students are paired with leading faculty from around the world to work on some of the most challenging problems facing humanity today. This removes the inference that we do the matching, and replaces it with a new inference that only exceptional students get paired with our best faculty.
Through this program, our students have the opportunity to work side-by-side with world renowned faculty on real-world projects, access to leading-edge tools, and learn in-demand techniques from many different disciplines. With access to our state-of-the-art equipment and facilities – including one of the most powerful supercomputers in the world - KAUST the ideal environment to take the next step in your career.
We offer a Ph.D. across 16 different subjects which are 4 years in duration (eight Semesters and four Summer Sessions).”
Program Benefits
Work with Leading Faculty
At KAUST, you’ll have the opportunity to learn, work, and live alongside some of the best minds in their field.
Find Out MoreState-of-the-art Research Facilities
Get access to cutting-edge facilities, equipment, expertise, and training.
Find Out MoreLive in a Diverse, International Community
Join an international community of scholars and scientists living and working together in an all-inclusive campus.
Find Out MoreProgram Outcomes
When you earn a Ph.D., you're not just earning a degree—you're also earning a spot among an exclusive cohort of individuals who have the skills and knowledge needed to solve the world's most important problems.
A Ph.D. from KAUST opens doors in all kinds of industries: from research labs and consulting firms to pharmaceutical companies and government agencies. Our alumni have gone on to do amazing things at places like Google, Tesla, and Saudi Aramco. With the persistence, ambition, and motivation needed to achieve a Ph.D., you’ll be among a prestigious group of individuals who support each other with opportunities and inspiration.
Entry Requirements
We’re looking for exceptional students from around the world to join us on our mission to solve the world’s most pressing challenges. To find out more about our entry requirements and how applications are evaluated, please visit our entry requirements page.
Cost of Study
Program Structure
The Ph.D. degree is an intensive research program designed to prepare students for esteemed careers in academia and industry. Students typically complete their PhD in eight Semesters and four Summer Sessions.
The below requirements listed below represent general university-level expectations. The specific details of specific degree requirements can be found on each discipline page.
Student Stories
Bilal Maassarani
KAUST is a compact city exuding Southern California charm dedicated for scientific research and resident well-being, fostering an environment where inhabitants can fully focus on impactful scientific.
Yousef Algoos
KAUST embodies 'It takes a village to raise a child,' providing us with a supportive unique ecosystem and world class facilities.
Maria Alejandra Perea Barreto
KAUST opened my eyes to a lot of new and state-of-the-art research opportunities that could be done here. High-quality of research facilities, specialized labs, and available equipment is fascinating.
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