The Embassy of Saudi Arabia announced on Wednesday that its government is offering 265 fully-funded scholarships for Filipino students to pursue undergraduate and graduate studies at 25 accredited Saudi Arabian universities.

During a news conference at the Saudi Arabian Embassy, Ambassador Faisal Ebraheem Alghamdi, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Philippines, said the scholarships provide an opportunity for Filipino students to study alongside international peers in academic environments blending tradition and innovation.

According to Kamal Jameel Alwidyani — who is responsible for Economics and Cultural Affairs at the embassy — the scholarship program, a joint initiative between the two countries for over 30 years, offers comprehensive support, including monthly financial stipends, free accommodation, medical insurance and annual round-trip airfare.

Alghamdi stressed the long-standing educational ties between Saudi Arabia and the Philippines, noting that over 800 Filipino students are currently enrolled in various programs at Saudi universities.

Meantime, Alwidyani said the monthly stipend amount varies depending on the student’s major and the university and added that the processing of scholarship applications takes approximately two to three weeks from the submission of required documents to the embassy.

For undergraduate studies, the application deadline for external (foreign) students is 14 June, while the deadline for internal (resident) students is 15 July. The deadline for master’s degree and PhD applications is 31 October 2025. Alwidyani noted that the scholarship program is offered annually.

Ambassador Alghamdi highlighted that the scholarship experience extends beyond academics, with students participating in cultural and community activities to promote intercultural dialogue.

He encouraged Filipino students to seize the opportunity to enhance their intellectual capacities and pursue their academic ambitions in Saudi Arabia, assuring parents of their children’s safety and support during their studies.