Applications are now open for the overseas scholarship program
The unified national admissions platform, “Qabool,” announced that it will begin accepting applications for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program for Overseas Studies starting next Thursday. This step comes as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to simplify procedures and unify application channels. The platform now integrates scholarship procedures with admissions to Saudi universities, colleges, and the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation, providing a seamless and comprehensive journey for male and female students.
The application period remains open until May 7th of this year, giving applicants ample time to complete their information and carefully rank their preferences. Final admission results will be announced between June 12th and 14th, allowing successful applicants to finalize their travel arrangements and enroll in international universities on schedule.
Historical background and strategic objectives of the program
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program, launched in its first edition in 2005, is one of the most important strategic pillars upon which the Kingdom has relied to develop its human capital. Over the years, the program has witnessed significant developments to keep pace with global changes and the requirements of national development. The program is no longer limited to sending students to study abroad, but has transformed into an integrated system aimed at building national competencies capable of competing globally, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places human capital development at the heart of its priorities.
The four scholarship tracks: Meeting the needs of the future
The program, in its new form, is based on four main tracks that have been carefully designed to meet the needs of the labor market and achieve sustainable development:
- The Pioneers Track: This track targets elite male and female students, and provides them with the opportunity to be sent to the top 30 educational institutions worldwide, to prepare future leaders in various fields.
- A promising path: It focuses on qualifying national cadres in promising and new sectors and fields, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and the tourism and entertainment industry, in order to support the diversification of the Kingdom’s economic base.
- Supply Track: It aims to directly bridge the gap in labor market needs by sending students in specific and in-demand disciplines to a list of the top 200 universities and institutes around the world.
- Research and Development Track: This track is concerned with building a generation of scientists and researchers, by supporting graduate students (Master's and PhD) in specific disciplines, to enhance the innovation and scientific research system in the Kingdom.
The importance and expected impact of the program
The scholarship program represents a long-term investment in the Kingdom's future, with its impact extending beyond education to encompass economic, social, and international dimensions. Domestically, the program contributes to the localization of advanced knowledge and expertise, supplying the labor market with highly qualified professionals capable of leading major development projects. Regionally and internationally, program graduates form a network of ambassadors who enhance the Kingdom's positive image and contribute to building bridges of scientific and cultural cooperation with various countries around the world, thus strengthening the Kingdom's position as a center of knowledge and innovation in the region.
