If you have ever thought about studying in Saudi Arabia on a fully funded scholarship, Taibah University in the holy city of Medina might just be the opportunity you have been waiting for. Every year, Taibah University opens its doors to international students from all over the world, offering them a chance to earn a bachelor’s degree completely free of charge, with tuition, accommodation, a monthly allowance, and even travel expenses covered by the scholarship.
For many students, especially those from African, Asian, and Middle Eastern countries, this scholarship represents one of the most accessible and generous fully funded opportunities available today. There is no application fee. You do not need an IELTS or TOEFL certificate to apply. And the application process goes through an official Saudi government platform, which makes it transparent and legitimate.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the Taibah University scholarship, including what the scholarship covers, who can apply, what documents you need, the available degree programs, and a clear step-by-step guide on how to submit your application.
About Taibah University
Before we get into the scholarship details, it helps to understand the kind of institution you would be studying at. Taibah University is a public research university located in Medina, Saudi Arabia. It was established in 2003 through a royal decree that transformed branches of King Abdulaziz University and the Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University into an independent institution. The university takes its name from one of the historical names of the city of Medina itself.
Since its founding, Taibah University has grown rapidly. It now has more than 20,000 students enrolled across its programs, with a total of over 50,000 students registered across all its branches and campuses. The university offers 156 academic programs in total, of which 94 are graduate programs. Teaching is spread across 28 different colleges covering fields as varied as medicine, engineering, computer science, law, Islamic studies, business administration, and arts and humanities.
The main campus is located in Medina, and the university also has six branch campuses in the governorates of Yanbu, Al-Ula, Al-Hanakiyah, Khaybar, Al-Mahd, and Badr. Medina itself is one of the holiest cities in Islam, home to the Prophet’s Mosque, the second holiest site in the Islamic world. For Muslim students in particular, studying in this city carries a significance that goes well beyond academics.
Taibah University is ranked among the top universities in Saudi Arabia and is recognized internationally. According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, the university is positioned in the 1201-1400 range globally. It also ranks number one among all universities in Medina and 17th among universities in Saudi Arabia in meta rankings that track over 100 international ranking systems. The university is also notable for being the first in Saudi Arabia where Computer Science and Engineering was established as a standalone college, separate from general engineering or applied sciences programs.
The university is accredited and recognized by the Ministry of Education of Saudi Arabia, and it actively supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 through its academic programs, research initiatives, and community engagement efforts.
What Is the Taibah University Scholarship?
The Taibah University scholarship is a fully funded opportunity available to non-Saudi international students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree at the university. The scholarship is part of the Study in Saudi Arabia external scholarship program, which is operated by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Education. Through this program, Saudi universities offer funded places to qualified international students from around the world each year.
This is not a partial grant or a small bursary. It is a comprehensive scholarship that takes care of the most significant costs associated with studying abroad. Students who are selected do not need to worry about tuition fees, finding a place to live, or how to manage their monthly expenses. All of this is handled through the scholarship package.
The scholarship is available to both male and female applicants, although female applicants are required to have a Mahram, meaning a male guardian, who can accompany them during their time in Saudi Arabia. This is a requirement in line with Saudi cultural and legal norms, and it applies to all female international students at the university.
There is no application fee involved. Taibah University does not charge anything to apply, and it does not work with agents or intermediaries. All applications must be submitted directly by the student through the official platform.
Taibah University Scholarship Benefits
This is one of the most important sections to read carefully because the scholarship package at Taibah University is genuinely comprehensive. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to receive as a scholarship student:
Full tuition coverage is the most significant part of the award. Once you are accepted as a scholarship student, all academic fees for your degree program are waived entirely. You will not receive a bill for tuition at the start of each semester. Your studies are fully paid for by the university and the Saudi government for the duration of your program.
Free university accommodation is provided to scholarship students. You will be housed on or near the university campus, which means you do not need to worry about searching for housing in a new city or paying rent out of your own pocket. This is a huge relief for students arriving from abroad with limited financial resources.
A monthly living stipend is given to students upon their arrival in Medina. This allowance is intended to help cover day-to-day living expenses such as food, transportation, and personal costs. It is not a large sum, but it is enough to support a student’s basic needs throughout the academic year.
A travel ticket is provided for the student’s first trip to Saudi Arabia. The scholarship covers the cost of getting to Medina when you first arrive, so you do not have to fund your own international flight to begin your studies. Some sources also indicate that round-trip travel costs may be covered for that initial journey.
Health insurance and medical care are available to scholarship students and, in some cases, their immediate family members. The university provides access to healthcare services, which is particularly important for students who may be living in Saudi Arabia for the first time and need reliable medical support.
Meals at subsidized prices are available on campus for scholarship students. While meals may not be entirely free, they are offered at reduced rates that make eating on campus very affordable.
Taken together, this package means that a student can arrive in Medina and study for a full bachelor’s degree with their basic needs covered throughout their time at the university. That is a genuinely life-changing opportunity for students who would otherwise not be able to access higher education abroad.
Available Degree Programs and Fields of Study
Taibah University offers a wide range of programs to international scholarship students. The available majors for non-Saudi students span several colleges and cover both scientific and humanities disciplines. However, it is important to note that some health-related majors are excluded from the scholarship for international applicants. Here is an overview of the fields available:
Under the College of Arts and Humanities, students can study Islamic Studies, Arabic Language, English Literature, Geography, Linguistics, and History. These programs are particularly relevant for students with a strong background in humanities and those interested in Islamic and Arabic scholarship.
Under the College of Science, programs include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Geology. These are foundational science programs for students interested in research and academic careers in the natural sciences.
Engineering programs are available at Taibah University and cover several branches of engineering. The university has recently introduced new courses in areas like data science, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, making it an increasingly relevant institution for students interested in technology.
Computer Science programs are available through the College of Computer Science and Engineering. This college holds a special distinction as it was the first standalone computer science and engineering college in any Saudi Arabian university.
Business Administration programs are offered through the College of Business Administration, covering management, finance, economics, and related fields. These programs prepare students for careers in both the private and public sectors.
The College of Sharia and Law offers programs in Islamic jurisprudence, legal studies, and related disciplines, drawing heavily on Medina’s deep roots in Islamic scholarship and legal tradition.
The College of Education prepares future teachers and educational professionals for careers in teaching and curriculum development.
Applicants should always check the official Taibah University admissions guide for the most current list of majors available to non-Saudi students, as available programs can change from one academic year to the next. The university determines the college and major for each accepted student before their arrival, and students must confirm their acceptance before coming to Saudi Arabia.
Taibah University Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
Before you begin your application, you need to confirm that you actually meet the eligibility criteria. Applying without meeting the requirements is a waste of your time and could delay your scholarship journey. Here is a clear list of what is required:
You must be a non-Saudi national. The Taibah University scholarship for international students is specifically for students who are not Saudi citizens. Saudi students have separate admission procedures and financial support pathways.
You must have completed secondary school education and hold a high school diploma or its equivalent. In some cases, graduates from Al-Azhar institutions or other recognized religious secondary schools may also be eligible. Your certificate must be authenticated by the Saudi embassy in your country. If there is no Saudi embassy in your country, authentication can be done at the nearest Saudi embassy in an adjacent country.
You must not have obtained any other scholarship from an educational institution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. If you are already on a funded program at another Saudi university, you cannot apply for this scholarship simultaneously.
You must not have been dismissed from any Saudi educational institution. Students who were previously expelled or removed from a Saudi university for disciplinary or academic reasons are not eligible to apply.
You must be physically and medically fit. A basic medical fitness requirement is part of the scholarship conditions, and you may need to provide documentation confirming your health status.
You must be familiar with the Arabic language, as many programs at Taibah University are taught in Arabic. Some programs may be offered in English, but Arabic proficiency is generally an advantage and in some cases a requirement depending on the major you choose.
You must have valid and accurate contact information registered in your application, including a working mobile phone number, a fixed phone number if available, and an active email address. Interestingly, the university also checks the validity of applicants’ social media accounts, specifically Twitter and Facebook, as part of its verification process.
You must be willing to confirm your desire to study at Taibah University before your arrival in Saudi Arabia. Some specializations may also require a personal interview conducted via video call as part of the selection process.
You must agree to abide by all rules, regulations, and instructions in force at the university throughout your time as a student.
Required Documents for the Taibah University Scholarship
Getting your paperwork ready in advance is one of the smartest things you can do when preparing to apply. Here is a detailed list of the documents you will need to submit:
A copy of your secondary school certificate or high school diploma. This document must also be translated into Arabic, and both the original and the translation must be authenticated by the Saudi embassy in your country or the nearest available Saudi embassy.
A copy of your valid passport with a minimum of six months of remaining validity. Make sure your passport is not expiring soon, as a passport that is close to its expiry date may cause your application to be rejected.
A recent color photograph in a 4 by 6 inch format. This is the standard passport-style photo used for official applications.
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format as part of the electronic application. The university will not process applications that are missing documents or that contain documents in incorrect formats.
Depending on your country and chosen field of study, you may be asked to provide additional supporting documents. Always review the university’s latest admissions guide to make sure you are not missing anything specific to your situation.
How to Apply for the Taibah University Scholarship: Step by Step
The application process for the Taibah University scholarship is fully online and goes through Saudi Arabia’s official Study in Saudi Arabia platform, which is operated by the Ministry of Education. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to do:
Step one: Visit the official Study in Saudi Arabia portal. This is the government-operated platform through which all international scholarship applications for Saudi universities are submitted. Note that applicants from some countries may need to use a VPN to access the portal, depending on their location. You can access the platform through the Study in Saudi Arabia official scholarship portal.
Step two: Create an account on the platform. You will need to register with a valid email address and create a personal profile. This account will be used throughout the entire application and tracking process, so keep your login details safe.
Step three: Complete your profile with accurate personal information. Fill in all the required fields carefully. The university cross-checks the information you provide with your supporting documents, so any discrepancies can result in disqualification. Take your time here and make sure everything matches your official documents exactly.
Step four: Select Taibah University as your chosen institution and choose your desired degree program. Review the available programs carefully before making your selection. You can only apply to one university at a time through the platform, so make sure Taibah University and your chosen major are genuinely the right fit for you.
Step five: Upload all required documents in PDF format. Go through the document checklist carefully. Your secondary school certificate with Arabic translation and Saudi embassy authentication, your passport copy, and your photograph must all be uploaded correctly. Any missing or incorrectly uploaded document can cause delays or lead to your application being set aside.
Step six: Submit your application before the deadline. Once you have reviewed everything and are satisfied that all information is accurate and all documents are uploaded, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation notification via email. After that, track your application status by logging into your account on the Study in Saudi Arabia platform.
Step seven: If shortlisted, confirm your acceptance. After the university reviews your application, successful applicants will be notified. Some applicants may be called for a video interview before a final decision is made. Once you receive an offer of admission, you must confirm your acceptance within the specified time frame before making arrangements to travel to Medina.
To begin your application today, visit the official Study in Saudi Arabia scholarship application portal and create your account.
Application Deadline for Taibah University Scholarship
The application deadline for the Taibah University scholarship varies from one academic year to the next. The university’s Deanship of Admission and Registration sets the official opening and closing dates for each cycle, and these are announced on the university’s official website and on the Study in Saudi Arabia platform.
It is important to understand that the application portal may close without prior warning once the intake limit is reached. For this reason, applicants are strongly advised not to wait until a published deadline but to apply as early as possible after the portal opens. Many students who apply late find that places have already been filled, even if the official deadline has not yet passed.
For the current cycle covering the 2025 and 2026 academic year, applications are open. Check the Taibah University official scholarships page regularly for the most up-to-date deadline information and any announcements about new intake periods.
Important Rules and Conditions You Must Know
Every scholarship comes with conditions attached, and the Taibah University scholarship is no exception. Being aware of these rules before you apply will help you stay compliant throughout your studies and avoid any surprises down the line.
All rules and regulations of the university apply to scholarship students just as they apply to all other students. This includes academic conduct rules, campus behavior standards, dress code requirements in line with Saudi cultural norms, and attendance requirements.
Submitting an application does not guarantee admission. The university makes that clear. The fact that you apply does not mean you will be offered a scholarship place. The information you register in the application is not considered valid unless supporting documents proving it are attached and verified.
The university determines the college and major for accepted students before their arrival. This means that even if you apply for a specific program, the university may assign you to a different program based on your qualifications and available places. Students must confirm their desire to study the assigned program before arriving in Saudi Arabia.
Some specializations require a personal video interview as part of the selection process. If you are applying for one of these programs, be prepared for an interview and make sure your internet connection and video setup are reliable enough for a professional online call.
Female applicants must be accompanied by a male guardian, known as a Mahram, during their time in Saudi Arabia. This is not a condition set by the university itself but is a requirement under Saudi law and cultural practice. Prospective female applicants and their families should be aware of and comfortable with this requirement before applying.
Scholarship students are expected to maintain satisfactory academic performance throughout their studies. Failing to meet academic requirements may result in the withdrawal of scholarship support. The university monitors student progress and expects scholars to take their studies seriously.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting the Scholarship
Competition for the Taibah University scholarship is real. Students from dozens of countries apply every year, and the number of available places is limited. Here are some practical things you can do to make your application as strong as possible.
Apply early. This cannot be said often enough. The Study in Saudi Arabia platform operates on a first-come, first-served basis to a significant degree. Students who apply promptly after the portal opens tend to have better chances than those who wait until the last moment. Do not delay your application while waiting for a perfect time.
Make sure all your documents are authenticated properly. One of the most common reasons applications fail is improper document authentication. Your secondary school certificate must be translated into Arabic and authenticated by the Saudi embassy. Do not assume that any other form of authentication will be accepted. Start the authentication process early because it can take weeks, especially if the Saudi embassy in your country is far from where you live.
Use accurate contact information. The university verified your mobile number, fixed phone number, email address, and even your social media profiles. If any of these are inactive or incorrect, your application may be set aside. Before submitting, double-check every piece of contact information you have entered.
Learn some Arabic if you do not already know it. While some programs are taught in English, Arabic is the primary language of instruction at Taibah University and of daily life in Medina. Students who demonstrate Arabic language ability or who are actively learning the language tend to be better placed for certain programs and for daily life on campus.
Choose your program honestly. Apply for a program that genuinely matches your educational background and interests. If you apply for a program in Engineering but your secondary school grades in science and mathematics are weak, your application is unlikely to succeed. Be realistic about your academic profile and choose accordingly.
Be prepared for a video interview. Some programs require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare by reviewing your reasons for choosing Taibah University, your academic goals, and how you see yourself contributing to your community after graduation. Practice speaking clearly and confidently, whether in Arabic or English depending on your chosen program.
Why Study at Taibah University in Medina?
Beyond the financial benefits of the scholarship, there are meaningful reasons why Taibah University in Medina is a compelling choice for international students.
Medina is one of the most significant cities in the Islamic world. For Muslim students in particular, living and studying in the city that houses the Prophet’s Mosque is a deeply meaningful experience that combines academic growth with spiritual enrichment. Many students who have studied in Medina describe it as a life-changing period that shaped not just their academic and professional development but also their personal and spiritual identity.
Taibah University itself is a growing institution with a strong commitment to research and innovation. Through its five research centers and partnerships with international institutions, the university is actively expanding its global academic footprint. New programs in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and several engineering disciplines are being introduced, making the university increasingly relevant to students who want to pursue careers in technology and applied sciences.
The university provides a genuinely diverse community for international students. Students come from across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond, creating a campus environment where you can build a network of connections that spans multiple continents. This international exposure is valuable not just for your time as a student but for your career and professional network long after graduation.
Saudi Arabia itself is investing heavily in its higher education sector as part of Vision 2030, the kingdom’s ambitious plan to diversify its economy and position itself as a global leader in knowledge and innovation. Studying in Saudi Arabia today means being part of a rapidly evolving academic environment with growing opportunities for graduates in both the public and private sectors.
Taibah University Scholarship vs. Other Saudi University Scholarships
Saudi Arabia is home to several universities that offer fully funded scholarships to international students, including King Saud University in Riyadh, King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals in Dhahran, and Islamic University of Medina, among others. So why consider Taibah University specifically?
One of the biggest advantages of Taibah University is its location. Being in Medina means you are in a city that is deeply meaningful to Muslim students from around the world, and the city offers a unique environment that is quieter, more spiritually oriented, and less commercially hectic than Riyadh or Jeddah. For students who want to focus on their studies in a calm and faith-centered environment, Medina and Taibah University are a natural fit.
Additionally, Taibah University has a broader range of programs than some other Saudi institutions, with 28 colleges and 156 programs in total. This means there is a higher chance that your chosen field of study is offered at Taibah University compared to more specialized institutions. The university also has a younger and more dynamic academic culture, with new programs in emerging fields being added regularly.
The application process through the Study in Saudi Arabia platform also makes Taibah University accessible to students who may not have experience navigating complex international university admissions systems. The platform is designed to be straightforward, and the no-fee, no-agent approach means that students from all backgrounds can apply without financial barriers to the process itself.
Final Thoughts
The Taibah University scholarship is a genuine, fully funded opportunity for international students who want to earn a respected bachelor’s degree in Saudi Arabia without paying for tuition, accommodation, or monthly living costs. It is offered by a legitimate, government-recognized university in one of the most historically and spiritually significant cities in the world, and it is accessible to students from a wide range of countries and academic backgrounds.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, the best thing you can do is start preparing your documents right now. Get your secondary school certificate authenticated by the Saudi embassy. Make sure your passport is valid. Gather your photograph and have everything ready in PDF format. Then, as soon as the application portal is open, submit your application without delay.
Thousands of students have already used this scholarship to transform their lives and access a quality university education that would otherwise have been beyond their financial reach. You could be next. All it takes is a complete application submitted through the right channel at the right time.
To start your application today, visit the official Study in Saudi Arabia scholarship portal and take the first step toward studying at Taibah University in Medina.
You can also visit the Taibah University official scholarships page to read the latest admissions guide, check available majors for international students, and find out the current intake deadlines.
