Scholarship 2026: Your comprehensive guide to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques program and applying via Safir 2

Are you looking for your chance to study abroad? Your comprehensive guide to turning your scholarship dream into reality

is considered External scholarship The biggest ambition for many students in Saudi Arabia, but it is often accompanied by great confusion and puzzling questions: Where do I start? Which track suits my abilities among the multiple Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program tracks? How can I compete for scholarship seats for major companies such as Aramco and SABIC? If you feel confused by the many conditions and requirements or are afraid of making mistakes in applying through the Safir Platform 2You are not alone.

In this article, we will put in your hands Full Roadmap for 2026. We'll explain in detail the admission requirements for each stage of study, the differences between state and private sector scholarships, and golden tips to maximize your chances of being accepted into the world's most prestigious universities. By reading this guide, you'll gain the knowledge you need to take your first step towards Bright career prospects with confidence and clarity, to be an effective part of realizing the Kingdom's Vision 2030.

The concept of scholarship and its importance in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030

Prepare Scholarship One of the strategic pillars on which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia relies to build a sustainable knowledge-based future. The concept of scholarship is not only limited to studying abroad, but it is Ambitious national investment It aims to transfer knowledge and localize modern technologies in the Kingdom. Through the Kingdom's Vision 2030, scholarship has become a tool to enable national cadres to compete globally in various scientific and research fields. Through these programs, the state seeks to bridge the gap between education outputs and the needs of the changing labor market, which contributes to building a knowledge-based economy. A scholarship recipient is not just a student. Ambassador to the homeland He reflects the bright image of the Kingdom and carries the responsibility of returning to contribute to the renaissance of his country.

Are you eligible to apply? A self-checklist to choose the right path between the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship and the Corporate Scholarship

Before starting the application process, it is essential that students identify the path that best suits their abilities and career goals. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship More freedom to choose specialization and universityWhile companies like Aramco and SABIC focus on Direct employment after graduation in specific engineering and technical specialties. Here's a checklist to help you decide:

1. Did you have a GPA higher than 90% in high school? (Important for businesses).
2. Would you prefer to secure a job before you start studying?Choose Corporate Scholarship).
3. Is your target discipline within the creative fields or the humanities?Choose the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship).
4. Do you have an IELTS score of at least 5.5 or equivalent?
5. Are you aiming to study at one of the world's top 50 universities?The Path of Excellence is the right fit for you).

Types of scholarship programs in Saudi Arabia and the difference between donors

There are many scholarship organizations in the Kingdom, including the government, semi-government and private sectors. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program is the largest umbrella, and is characterized by its diverse tracks that include medicine, engineering, arts, and artificial intelligence. On the other hand, organizations such as Ministry of Culture andMinistry of Sports Specific programs that target talented people in specific fields. The choice between these organizations depends mainly on Type of support that the student needs andFuture obligations to the awarding organization. Students should carefully study the regulations of each organization to ensure that they are compatible with their long-term academic and professional aspirations.

Overview of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program The most comprehensive and impactful in the history of Saudi education. The program was launched with multiple phases, leading up to the new scholarship strategy that focuses on Increasing the quality of outputs instead of just increasing the numbers. The program is characterized by high transparency in admissions. Academic differentiation. The program includes various tracks aimed at achieving the goals of the vision, such as developing the tourism sector, aerospace, and renewable energy. The program also provides comprehensive financial support that includes tuition fees, medical insurance, annual travel tickets, as well as monthly bonuses for the scholarship recipient and his/her companions.

Scholarship programs for major companies and vital sectors: Aramco, SABIC and NEOM

National corporate giants offer scholarship programs that end in employment, which are Very strict admission criteria. Aramco's CDPNE program is the most popular, with students undergoing an intensive preparatory year before traveling. SABIC's program focuses on chemistry and mechanical engineering, while Neom scholarship As a future pathway that aims to qualify the region's residents and Saudi youth to work on the world's largest urban project. These programs are ideal for those looking for Early career stability Hands-on training during the study period, as students often spend their summer internships within the company's facilities.

Specialized pathways for the creative generation: Cultural Scholarship and Health Scholarship

In line with the Kingdom's social and cultural transformation, the Cultural scholarship to include disciplines such as cinema, music, cooking, and archaeology. This path aims to build an internationally competitive Saudi creative sector. On the other hand, the Health scholarship High priority to fill the shortage of medical and nursing staff. The health track often requires Direct admission From a university hospital or a prestigious university, with strict requirements related to graduation years and academic averages, given the sensitivity and importance of this sector in improving the quality of life in the Kingdom.

Comprehensive comparison table: Fundamental differences between the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship and the Corporate Scholarship

Details of the new Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program

The new scholarship strategy focuses on Four main paths Carefully designed. These pathways ensure that every student who is scholarshiped will directly contribute to a vital sector. Scholarships are no longer random; they are Excellence-oriented. Today's student has clear choices, whether they want to join the top minds in the Excellence track, contribute to innovation through the R&D track, or support national supply chains through the Imdaad track. This segmentation makes it easier for future employers to recognize a graduate's capabilities based on the path they have taken.

Scholarship Pathway of Excellence: List of top international universities and specialties

Prepare Path of excellence is the elite one, which aims to send students to the world's top universities (such as Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford). The prerequisite for this pathway is a Direct and Unconditional Acceptance from a university within the list of universities specified by the ministry. The great advantage of this track is that it does not require the extension of the previous major, which opens new horizons for students wishing to change their career path towards in-demand specializations such as public administration, politics, and artificial intelligence. Graduates of this track are Future leaders whom the Kingdom is counting on to manage major projects.

Foreseeing the future through a research and development pathway and a supply pathway for the labor market

The R&D track aims to graduate Scientists and researchers They contribute to raising the Kingdom's ranking in global innovation indices. This track focuses on master's and doctoral degrees in basic and applied sciences. As for Supply pathfocuses on meeting the actual needs of the labor market in sectors such as tourism, hospitality, logistics, and finance. This track is closely related to Private Sector GrowthIt aims to ensure the presence of qualified Saudi cadres to fill leadership and technical positions in large and medium-sized companies that form the backbone of the national economy.

A promising path: Your gateway to scholarships for creative specialties and new technologies

The "promising" track is the track dedicated to promising and emerging sectors identified by Vision 2030 as future growth opportunities. This track includes specializations such as Cybersecurity, Renewable Energy, Biotechnology, and Performing Arts. The pathway aims to create a generation of specialists in fields that were previously unavailable in the depth required locally. This pathway offers flexibility in selecting universities with innovative technology programs and provides a supportive environment for students who have Passion for innovation and create tech startups upon their return to the Kingdom.

General and special scholarship conditions for each stage of study in detail

Scholarship requirements are Non-negotiable To ensure transparency and justice. The general conditions include being of Saudi nationality, good conduct, and being medically fit. Previous certificates must be certified by the Ministry of Education if they are from abroad. Most importantly Not combining a job with a scholarshipThe student must be fully dedicated to the study. Adherence to these conditions is the first and most important step, and any defect in the submitted data may lead to the final disqualification of the application even after the issuance of the initial acceptance.

Bachelor's degree requirements for high school graduates

For high school graduates aspiring for scholarships, you should focus on GPA (often above 90%) and National Measurement Center test scores. Some tracks require the student to have graduated no more than three years ago. In addition, the Advanced age A young age is an important factor, preferably in the prime of his/her life to ensure his/her ability to acclimatize to the foreign environment. Successful undergraduate study abroad requires high personal maturity and rigorous academic commitment from day one, especially in the language preparatory year.

Postgraduate admission criteria: Master's and PhD scholarship requirements

For graduate students, the criteria go beyond just degrees. For master's and doctoral students, the required specialization must be An extension of the previous specialization or reasonably compatible with it (except for the Excellence Track). The average in the previous degree must be at least "B" in most cases. Admissions committees also place great importance on Research background for the applicant, especially for PhD students who must submit a strong research proposal. Academic recommendations from former professors play a crucial role in assessing a student's merit and ability to carry the burden of scientific research in a competitive academic environment.

English language requirements: Minimum required scores in IELTS and TOEFL tests

The English language is considered The biggest drawback and the most important requirement for admission to international universities. Most scholarship programs require a minimum score of 5.5 in IELTS while prestigious universities require scores ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 For direct admission to the major. For the TOEFL IBT, the required scores usually range from 80 to 100. We advise students to start preparing for these tests well in advance of the application date, as obtaining the required score shortens years of study abroad and increases the chances of admission to top universities.

Step-by-step guide to applying online via Safeer 2

Platform Ambassador 2 It is the only and official online portal for all scholarship services. Applying through it is easy and straightforward, but it requires Precision accuracy in data entry. The steps start with creating an account using the national ID, then filling out the application form and choosing the track and specialization. The student must make sure to upload clear files in PDF format. The platform also allows you to communicate with the cultural attachments and follow up on the status of your application at every stage, which saves a lot of time and effort compared to the old traditional methods.

How to create a professional account and prepare official documents for uploading

When creating your Sphere 2 account, use Email Be sure to update your contact information (mobile number). Required documents include: Copy of passport (valid), copy of academic certificate, translated academic transcript, and language certificate. It is essential that the photos are in color and very clear. Pro tip: Label each file with its proper name (e.g. High_School_Transcript.pdf) to make it easier for the recruiter to review your file. Tidiness and organization gives a good impression of the applicant's seriousness and professionalism.

Rules for selecting the recommended university and specialization compatible with the Ministry's requirements

The Ministry of Education does not accept scholarships to any university. Recommended In the University Ambassador system. Students should make sure that the major they want to study falls under their chosen pathway. Choosing a university in a city with a favorable cost of living and a safe environment is a strategic decision. You should also make sure that the study system is fully in-person and not distance learning, as the Ministry of Education Non-attendance certificates are not equivalent. Consulting former students at the same university can provide you with valuable information about the quality of education and services available.

Post-acceptance procedures: Official scholarship decision and financial guarantee

Once you get your initial acceptance, the most important procedural stage begins. You must request Financial guarantee from the platform to submit to the university for final acceptance (I-20 in America or CAS in the UK). After that, the Scholarship DecisionThis is the document that gives you the status of "scholarship" and entitles you to tickets and rewards. Do not book tickets or actually travel before the issuance of this decision, as the Ministry will not bear any costs incurred before the official date of its issuance.

Golden tips to increase your chances of being accepted into competitive scholarship programs

Competition for scholarship seats increases every year, and to stand out from the crowd, you need to stand out as a Exceptional student. Don't settle for the minimum requirements. Participate in volunteer activities, get short professional certifications in your specialty, and develop your leadership skills. Admissions committees are looking for someone who has Clear vision how to serve their country after returning. Academic excellence is essential, but it is the balanced and ambitious personality that makes the difference in interviews or letters of purpose.

A guide to writing a strong academic resume that attracts admissions committees

Your resume is A mirror of your achievements. In the academic part, focus on GPA, outstanding class projects, and any research you participated in. Don't forget to add a section for technical skills (e.g. mastery of certain programs) and soft skills (e.g. teamwork). Keep the resume short (one to two pages maximum) and use strong, correct English. Avoid using overly ornate templates, as clarity and simplicity are the key to professionalism in global academia.

Why you should get unconditional admission from prestigious universities first

Get Unconditional Acceptance (Unconditional Offer means that you have met all the university's requirements, including language. This type of acceptance puts you in Top priority with the Ministry of Education, especially in the excellence track. Prestigious universities give a lot of weight to your academic profile, and once you are accepted, the process of getting a scholarship approval is much quicker and easier. Direct admission also saves you months of language study at institutes that may not be as good as the academic environment at the university itself.

Preparation Plan for the Aptitude, Achievement, and SAT Tests

If you are aiming to scholarship through companies or pathways that require these tests, you should start by Intensive training At least 6 months before the test. Use trusted educational platforms and official books. The SAT is your ticket to prestigious U.S. universities and requires high math and analytical skills in English. Succeeding on these tests is not just about intelligence, it's about Continuous training on question pattern and time management during the test. Getting a high score will open doors you never imagined.

Life after the scholarship decision: Preparing for the new phase

The scholarship is Personal challenge before it's academic. Being psychologically prepared for foreignness, being able to manage a personal budget, and dealing with different cultures are all skills you'll need. Before traveling, find the right accommodation, familiarize yourself with the basic laws of the country of study, and be prepared to face "culture shock" at the beginning. Always remember that you are there for a good cause, and that every difficulty you face is part of building your leadership qualities. Get in touch with Saudi student associations abroad, they will help you in your early days.

Travel procedures and effective communication with cultural attachés in the country of study

The cultural attaché is Your Home Abroad. Once you arrive, you should open a scholarship profile in Safir 2 and update your accommodation details and local phone number. Communicating with your study supervisor regularly and keeping them informed of your academic progress can save you a lot of administrative hassle. Stick to the deadlines for submitting study reports to ensure the continued disbursement of the award. The attaché is not only a supervisory body, but also a supportive body that will intervene to solve your academic or legal issues if necessary, so make sure to build a good professional relationship with them.

List of salaries and financial benefits for scholarship recipients and companions

The Kingdom is one of the most generous countries in supporting its students. Financial benefits include: Basic monthly stipend (varies by country to compensate for cost of living differences), stipend for spouse and accompanying children, comprehensive medical insurance, and an annual book and clothing allowance. A stipend is also provided Encouraging bonuses For outstanding students with high grades. Managing this money smartly is the key to success in the West; avoid extravagance in the beginning and focus on securing basic needs (housing and transportation) to ensure a stable life that allows you to devote yourself to your studies and excellence.

Legal regulations when you want to change your major or university: Conditions and restrictions

Changing majors or universities is not easy and is subject to Very strict controls. The new specialization must be within the permitted tracks, and the new university must be at the same level or better than the current university. Prior approval from the Attaché and the Ministry is required before taking any academic step at the university. Indiscriminate change may lead to Suspension of the mission or asking for a refund. So, think carefully before choosing your major the first time to avoid administrative complications later on.

Frequently asked questions about the scholarship system and application

1. Can I apply for the scholarship while I am employed? No, full time employment is not required, and you must bring a resignation or official study leave if you are a government employee.
2. Is there an age requirement for the scholarship? The age requirements vary according to the track, but in general it is preferred that the applicant's age does not exceed 30 years and 35 years for the PhD in some tracks, with more flexibility in the excellence track.
3. Can I bring my family with me? Yes, the state provides honorariums, medical insurance and annual airfare for the accompanying family members (spouse and children).
4. What happens if I fail a course? Repeated failures may result in an academic warning or termination of the mission in cases of clear negligence.
5. Can I work while studying? Study visa laws in most countries (e.g. America) prohibit off-campus employment, and violating this may result in deportation and cancellation of the mission.

Conclusion: Your next steps toward global excellence

In this comprehensive guide, we've summarized the most important points that should guide your 2026 scholarship journey:

• Diversity of strategic pathways: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Corporate Scholarship Program offers various tracks (such as Excellence, Imdaad, and Wadeed), all aimed at aligning your capabilities with the aspirations of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
• Academic and language readiness: Unconditional admission and high IELTS or TOEFL scores are the golden key to accelerating your scholarship process and securing your seat at top international universities.
• Accuracy in electronic procedures: Safir 2 is your only official portal, and dealing with it professionally and accurately in uploading documents saves you a lot of time and administrative effort.
• Adherence to rules and regulations: Understanding your financial and academic rights and obligations, and adhering to the terms of changing majors or universities, ensures a stable and successful study journey.
• Scholarship as a national mission: Always remember that you are a national investor and an ambassador for your country, and that the ultimate goal is to return with knowledge and experience to contribute to building the future of the Kingdom.

We thank you for reading this article to the end, and we hope that this guide will be a beacon that illuminates the path of success and excellence for you. We believe in your ability to raise the Kingdom's name high in international forums, and we ask God to grant you success in your next academic career.