Financial Planning

Managing Your Student Finances in Saudi Arabia

Plan your budget effectively with this guide to tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and financial requirements for studying in Saudi Arabia.

Paying for Study in Saudi Arabia

Scholarships, fees, stipends and money proof in Saudi riyal (SAR)

Paid bachelor's example

SAR 94,000 a year before VAT (Alfaisal University)

Many international students study on a full scholarship with no tuition. Alfaisal University is one private example.

Living Costs Calculator

Financial Topics

Money Topics

Read these guides to plan your money.

Tuition Fees

Complete breakdown of tuition costs across universities in Saudi Arabia

Key information

Program-wise fee structure
Public vs private universities
Additional academic costs
Payment schedules and methods

Learn More

Living Costs

Comprehensive guide to living expenses and budgeting in Saudi Arabia

Key information

Accommodation costs by city
Food and daily expenses
Transportation costs
Personal and entertainment budget

Learn More

Financial Proof

Documentation and requirements for proving financial capacity

Key information

Required financial documentation
Bank statement requirements
Sponsor documents
University-specific requirements

Learn More

Scholarships

Available scholarships and funding opportunities for international students

Key information

Government scholarships
University-specific funding
Merit-based opportunities
Application deadlines and process

Learn More

Student Jobs

Work opportunities and regulations for international students

Key information

Work permit regulations
On-campus job opportunities
Part-time work options
Post-graduation work rights

Learn More

Budget Overview

Planning Your Money

There is no set figure for student living costs. On a full scholarship, tuition, housing and living are covered. If you pay yourself, ask your university for its own estimate.

Money Management

Banking in Saudi Arabia

Most banks ask for an Iqama and a Saudi phone number.

Banks Students Use

Each bank sets its own rules. Ask about fees.

Al Rajhi Bank

A large Saudi bank. You may need your Iqama and national address (your Saudi home address).

Lets Iqama holders open an account online.

Saudi National Bank (SNB)

One of the banks students at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) use.

Has a mobile banking app.

Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB)

Another bank KAUST students use.

Has a mobile banking app.

Papers Banks Ask For

Iqama
Saudi phone number

National address

Money Transfer & Payment Methods

Options for receiving and sending money internationally

Money Transfer Options

Bank Wire Transfers

Traditional bank-to-bank transfers using SWIFT/BIC codes.

Secure

Reliable

Higher fees

Money Transfer Services

Services like Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and MoneyGram.

Lower fees

Better exchange rates

App-based tracking

Common Payment Methods

Cash

Keep some cash on hand for small purchases and emergency situations. ATMs are widely available.

Smart Financial Tips

Expert advice to help you manage your finances effectively while studying in saudi-arabia

Budgeting

Check Study in Saudi (the Ministry of Education's website for applying) for full scholarships first.

Add VAT (a 15% tax some universities add to fees) to your costs if you pay yourself.

Bring cash for your first days.

Banking

Open a Saudi bank account once your Iqama (the Saudi residence card) arrives.

Scholarship stipends are paid into a Saudi bank account.

Pro Tips for saudi-arabia

Currency Management

• Monitor exchange rates and transfer money when rates are favorable
• Use multi-currency cards to avoid conversion fees
• Keep some local cash (SAR) for emergencies

Local Financial Culture

• Learn about local tipping customs and practices
• Understand tax obligations for international students
• Explore local student financial support programs

Remember: Financial planning is key to a successful study abroad experience. Start planning early and don't hesitate to seek advice from financial advisors or your university's international student services.