PhD Admission Requirements
Application Tracks
Applicants may apply through one of the following two tracks:
- Full Scholarship Admission Requirements
- General Admission Requirements
Below are the specific admission requirements and selection criteria for each track.
Full Scholarship in PhD programs for Saudi and International Students
Admission in PhD Program Criteria for Full-time Scholarship:
- Bachelor degree in the required field with a minimum GPA of 3.25/4 or equivalent.
- Master degree in the required field with a minimum GPA of 3.7/4 or equivalent.
- English Proficiency test (IELTS 7, TOEFL IBT 95) with IELTS writing of 6.5 or TOEFL writing of 22.
- GRE: Minimum Quantitative 156, and Writing ≥ 3.5.
- Two Reference Letters from credible researchers or industry experts.
- Research Statement that shows the applicant's research track.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) showing education, experience, and previous publications.
- Pass a personal interview.
- The scholarship is limited to only 8 semesters.
Benefits for Students
- Monthly stipend (up to 7,000 SAR).
- Travel tickets from and to home country.
- Paid vacation every two years (up to 45 days).
- Accommodation in university housing or housing allowance.
- Transportation or transportation allowance.
- Health Insurance.
- For Saudi students: enrollment in the Social Security pension system as researchers.
- Personal computer and workspace.
Tasks for Students (Obligations)
- Must be a full-time student working at least 40 hours/week.
- Support faculty in tutorial classes.
- Support faculty in grading homework.
- Assist in conducting labs.
- Conduct research in chosen field.
- Maintain a teaching load not below 10 credit hours per semester.
- Handle additional TA/RA duties.
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Maintain a GPA of 3.5 to keep the scholarship;
Failure leads to a probation period, followed by termination if no improvement.
Graduation Requirements
- At least two journal publications in ISI / Scopus Q1 or Q2 journals with supervisor.
- Supervisors will be assigned based on mutual interest and specialization.
General Admission Requirements for PhD Programs at PSU (Non-scholarship)
Admission in PhD Program Criteria:
- Bachelor degree in the required field with a minimum of very good GPA.
- Master degree in the required field with a minimum GPA of 3.25/4 or equivalent.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL IBT 90 (writing score of IELTS 5.0 or TOEFL 20).
- Two Reference Letters.
- Research Statement.
- CV showing education, experience, and publications.
- Pass a personal interview.
Graduation Requirements
- Minimum two journal publications with supervisor in ISI / Scopus Q1 or Q2 journals.
- Supervisors assigned based on alignment of interests and expertise.