KAUST Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) Internship

• Organization: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST)
• Host country: Saudi Arabia
• Degree level: Undergraduate, Masters
• Funding: Paid Internship
• Deadline: Open / Rolling
• Fields of study: Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics

The Visiting Student Research Program (VSRP) at KAUST offers 3– to 6-month research internships for third/fourth-year bachelor's and master’s students in STEM. During the internship, participants work on current faculty-led research across a wide range of disciplines, gaining hands-on experience in world-class facilities. Interns receive full funding, including a monthly stipend, accommodation, return airfare, health insurance, and access to core research laboratories and community facilities.

Benefits

• USD 1,000 monthly stipend
• On-campus accommodation — private bedroom and bathroom.
• Round-trip airfare (visa & travel costs covered) for international interns.
• Health insurance and access to campus health facilities.
• Full access to state-of-the-art research labs, equipment and KAUST’s core facilities.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge research projects under mentorship of leading faculty.

Eligibility

• Must be an undergraduate student in third year or above, or a master’s student.
• Strong academic performance: minimum GPA 3.5/4 (or equivalent) expected.
• Good command of English (verbal and written).
• Current PhD students, KAUST students or alumni are not eligible.

Requirements

• Valid passport
• Willingness to commit 3–6 months

Required Documents

• Official transcripts (in English) from current / previous institutions
• Valid passport (for international applicants)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) / résumé
• Statement of Purpose / Motivation letter
• Letter(s) of Recommendation (academic references)

Programs of Study

• Physics
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Materials Engineering
• Computer Science
• Earth Sciences
• Environmental Sciences
• Marine Science
• Bioscience
• Interdisciplinary Research Areas

Application Process

• Browse available research projects on the official KAUST VSRP website and select one that matches your interests.
• Register and create an account on the application portal.
• Fill out the application form and upload all required documents.
• Submit application — since the program accepts applications all year, apply whenever you are ready.
• If shortlisted, you may be contacted for further steps (interview or additional checks).
• If selected, KAUST will handle visa processing, travel arrangements, and accommodation.

How to Apply

• Visit the KAUST VSRP internship webpage.
• Explore the list of available projects and pick one that aligns with your academic background and interests.
• Register an account and complete the online application form.
• Upload all required documents (transcripts, CV, passport copy, statement of purpose, recommendation letters).
• Submit application at any time — the internship is open year-round.
• Await selection decision and follow further instructions if accepted

Selection Process

• Screening of academic eligibility (GPA, study level) and documentation
• Review of application: CV, motivation, project fit, recommendation letters
• Shortlisting candidates and final selection by KAUST admissions committee or project supervisors

Apply on the official website

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